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Ontario Invests Millions In Staff For Long-Term Care Homes
/The Ontario Government will provide up to $270 million this year to long-term care homes across the province to increase staffing levels, leading to more direct care for residents announced by MPP Dave Smith at Fairhaven Home on Wednesday.
(left to right) MPP Dave Smith; Mary Anne Greco, Riverview Manor Administrator; Carol Rodd, CEO St Joseph’s at Fleming; Dawn Baldwin, Extendicare administrator and Lionel Towns, Fairhaven Executive Director. Each member made speeches regarding the government funding for more healthcare staff. Photo by David Tuan Bui.
This includes $3,120,446 for long-term care homes in Peterborough-Kawartha this year. By 2024, the total average increase of permanent annualized funding for long-term care homes in Peterborough-Kawartha will be $18,043,200 more than what they would receive.
This is part of the province’s commitment to ensure long-term care residents receive — on average — four hours of direct care per day by 2024-25.
It was also announced that as part of the government’s plan to fix long-term care, it will bring forward legislation that will enshrine its commitment to four hours of care into law.
“For too long, governments of all stripes have neglected and underfunded our long-term care system. We have now seen all too painfully the results of that inaction,” said Smith. “Today, that changes. $18,043,200 more in annual funding will hire thousands of new nurses, personal support workers, attendants and physiotherapists for homes across our community. Our seniors will see four hours of direct care every day by our hardworking health care professionals.”
These funds will increase care for residents at:
Extendicare Inc., in Lakefield, will receive up to $356,212 for additional staffing this year to increase the hours of direct care for residents. By the year 2024-2025, the home will receive $2,181,756 annually more than their current funding. Extendicare Inc., in Peterborough, will receive up to $619,816 for additional staffing this year to increase the hours of direct care for residents. By the year 2024-2025, the home will receive $3,796,272 annually more than their current funding.
Fairhaven, in Peterborough, will receive up to $911,908 for additional staffing this year to increase the hours of direct care for residents. By the year 2024-2025, the home will receive $5,585,316 annually more than their current funding.
Riverview Manor Nursing Home, in Peterborough, will receive up to $345,530 for additional staffing this year to increase the hours of direct care for residents. By the year 2024-2025, the home will receive $2,116,320 annually more than their current funding.
St. Joseph’s at Fleming, in Peterborough, will receive up to $712,434 for additional staffing this year to increase the hours of direct care for residents. By the year 2024-2025, the home will receive $4,363,536 annually more than their current funding.
“We know that more qualified staff means more daily care for residents,” said Rod Phillips, Minister of Long-Term Care. “Hiring more staff is part of our government’s plan to fix long-term care and to improve the quality of care residents receive and the quality of life they experience.”
“This historic commitment of funding will have transformative effects on the care provided in Homes, and on the working conditions of our direct care staff,” said Lionel Towns, Executive Director of Fairhaven Long-Term Care Home.
“Our residents, their families, and our entire care team are pleased with the Ontario Government’s commitment to increase funding for Long Term Care. This funding will support a staffing model that will allow an increase in direct care time for each of our residents,” said Carol Rodd, CEO of St. Joseph’s at Fleming.
“Extendicare applauds the Ontario government for taking action on the long-standing staffing challenges that the long-term care sector has been confronting for many years,” said Dawn Baldwin, Administrator at Extendicare Lakefield. “Residents’ care needs have become increasingly complex, and this path to continued funding increases will make a real difference in delivery of safe, quality care for those we serve.”
“OMNI Health Care-Riverview Manor is thankful for the Government’s significant announcement of a $345,530 enhancement to our nursing & personal care funding for the remainder of 2021, and additional funding of $2,116,320 annually by 2024-2025. All of the funding is to be spent directly on nursing, personal care and programs, with any surplus returned to government,” said Mary Anne Greco, Administrator of Riverview Manor Nursing Home.
Residents receive an average of two hours and 45 minutes of direct care from nurses and personal support workers. This funding will increase the daily average to three hours, per resident per day by the end of this fiscal year. This funding also includes $42.8M to homes to increase care by allied health care professionals (such as physiotherapists and social workers) by 10 per cent this year.
The government is investing $4.9 billion over four years to boost direct resident care to an average of four hours daily by increasing care staff by more than 27,000 people. Hiring thousands of new staff at long-term homes and increasing the amount of care they deliver each year will be made possible by annual funding increases to homes:
$270 million in 2021-22
$673 million in 2022-23
$1.25 billion in 2023-24
$1.82 billion in 2024-25
Ontario Premier Doug Ford and his government introduced and had Bill 124 passed in 2019. Photo by David Tuan Bui.
During the announcements, several healthcare workers — mostly from St. Joseph’s — were present to support Rodd. They voiced their opinions to Smith after the media conference concerning Bill 124 if he would support the repeal.
The Bill caps wage increases to a maximum of one per cent total compensation for three years to healthcare workers.
"We just have to keep pushing forward,” said Rodd. “I think the government is doing the right things, right now. I think they are making the right moves. Giving more money to our sector is a big help. We can't thank our healthcare workers enough.”
Smith remarked that the announcements today have nothing to do Bill 124 and are focused on “increasing the amount of care for seniors.” He spoke with the concerned healthcare workers after the proceedings.
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What You Need to Know About the Newly Launched Enhanced Vaccine Certificate
/The Ontario government has officially launched its COVID-19 verification app and QR code system.
As of Monday every citizen of Ontario is eligible to download an enhanced vaccine certificate, people can choose to print a QR code, or store it on their phone.
Businesses are required to continue to accept older versions of the vaccine passport, though those are no longer available to download.
What is a QR code?
QR stands for ‘quick response’ it is a barcode that is completely unique and when scanned can redirect the scanner to a URL.
When the enhanced vaccine certificate is scanned one of three images will appear.
A green checkmark verifies that that individual is fully vaccinated.
A red ‘X’ indicates that individual does not have two doses or it has not been 14 days since their second dose.
A yellow image means the QR code could not be scanned, or the QR code has come from a third party user that is not supported by the app.
To access the enhanced vaccine certificate individuals need:
a green photo health (OHIP) card (individuals will need numbers on both sides of the card, expired cards will be accepted)
a modern web browser (the website is not compatible with Internet Explorer 11 or earlier).
Visit covid-19.ontario.ca/get-proof/ to download the QR code.
The enhanced certificate will only provide essential information, it will not show health card numbers. People will need to show a piece of I.D when providing their QR code.
How will this new system work for businesses?
Verify Ontario is a free QR code scanner for businesses that can be used to scan QR codes on the enhanced vaccine certificates. The app can't store any personal information.
Businesses and organizations can download the free app from the Apple app and Google Play stores. It is available in French and English.
It can be used without an internet connection and can scan both digital and printed versions of the enhanced vaccine certificates.
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PRHC Foundation President & CEO Receives Prestigious Fellow of the Association for Healthcare Philanthropy Designation
/The Peterborough Regional Health Centre (PRHC) Foundation announced on Thursday that President and CEO Lesley Heighway has been awarded the designation of Fellow of the Association for Healthcare Philanthropy in recognition of her fundraising leadership on behalf of Peterborough Regional Health Centre.
Photo courtesy of PRHC Foundation.
The Association for Healthcare Philanthropy (AHP) is an international professional organization dedicated to healthcare philanthropy. The Fellow of the Association for Healthcare Philanthropy (FAHP) is a designation bestowed on AHP members who have made significant contributions to the profession.
Candidates must meet rigorous criteria including career success that has had a transformative effect on the organizations they’ve supported, demonstrated leadership, mentorship and community service and a comprehensive knowledge of healthcare governance and philanthropy.
Of AHP's 4,500 members at more than 2,200 healthcare facilities around the world, only 2 per cent of AHP members have received the FAHP designation, with Heighway one of three selected in 2021.
“In Lesley’s ten years as President & CEO, she’s worked tirelessly with donors from across the region to fund the equipment and technology that form the foundation of world-class care at Peterborough Regional Health Centre,” said Linda Skilton, chair, PRHC Foundation Board of Directors. “Her success is fueled by a passion for healthcare that has inspired $30 million in donations in the past five years alone.”
Dr. Peter McLaughlin, PRHC President & CEO, has worked closely with Lesley during her tenure at the Foundation and says she is a trusted leader, recognized by the sector and community as an authority on best practices in philanthropy.
“Lesley is highly-regarded by the Foundation and PRHC boards, hospital staff and leadership, and our donors,” said McLaughlin. “Her record of fundraising success and the impact our Foundation's donors have had and continue to have on patient care at PRHC speak volumes about her performance, integrity and professionalism.”
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Peterborough Police Announce COVID-19 Vaccine Mandate
/The Peterborough Police have implemented a COVID-19 vaccination policy for all employees, announced on Thursday.
File Photo.
The policy came into effect on Oct. 7, 2021, with the Peterborough Police Service strongly recommending that all members be vaccinated against COVID-19. Members have until November 19 2021, to provide proof of being fully vaccinated or have received a medical exemption. For Members who are unvaccinated, additional safety measures including rapid antigen testing will be required effective November 20, 2021.
“Our mission is to protect the communities we serve, and this policy shows residents and members that the Peterborough Police Service is committed to doing our part,” said Chief Scott Gilbert.
The policy was developed in coordination and consultation with the Occupational Health and Safety Committee of the Peterborough Police Service, the Peterborough Police Association, the Senior Officers Association, Peterborough Public Health, the City of Peterborough, legal advisors, and other police services.
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Peterborough Public Health Releases Suggestions for a Safe Thanksgiving
/Peterborough Public Health (PPH) released on Wednesday several recommendations for celebrating Thanksgiving in a COVID-safe way.
Larry Stinson will act as the interim CEO of Peterborough Public Health until Dr.Thomas Piggot assumes The role on Dec. 1. File photo.
“Celebrating Thanksgiving with friends and family is an important part of the holiday. To protect our vulnerable residents, we recommend family and friends screen for COVID-19 symptoms before attending any gatherings. Please stay home if you are feeling unwell or have symptoms,” said Donna Churipuy, Director of Public Health Programs. “This is especially important if celebrating indoors with people who are only partially vaccinated or not vaccinated yet.”
For a lower risk gathering PPH suggests to:
• Plan a small gathering of fully vaccinated individuals, indoors or outdoors.
• Plan a small gathering outdoors of individuals with mixed vaccine status (where some are vaccinated, some are only partially vaccinated or not vaccinated).
• Before anyone comes in your home, check to make sure they do not have any COVID-19 symptoms, have not been identified as a close contact of someone who has COVID-19, and are not waiting for a COVID-19 test result.
• Connect with family and friends virtually.
• Stay local, and try to limit travel.
• Continue to practice good hand hygiene.
• Use face coverings in moderate to high risk settings, and whenever required in public spaces.
The following activities are considered moderate risk:
• Small gatherings of individuals with mixed vaccine status, indoors with masking where distancing is not possible.
• Medium-sized gatherings with individuals attending who are not vaccinated, or partially vaccinated.
• Sharing drinks or food.
It is recommended to avoid:
• Going to social gatherings, including religious services, if you are sick, awaiting testing results, or are a close.
contact of someone with COVID-19.
• Large crowds or events - follow capacity limits, social distancing, and masking rules if you decide to attend.
Self-screening can be done online here.
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Camp Kawartha Celebrates Opening of New Rotary Health Centre
/Following a multi-year fundraising campaign, Camp Kawartha (CK) formally opened its new Rotary Health Centre announced on Saturday.
(left to right) David Goyette; Jason Huffman, Past Board CK Chair; Myke Healy, CK Board Chair; Liam Churchill, CK Board Director. Photo Courtesy of Camp Kawartha.
Camp Kawartha boasts the building as one of the most environmentally responsible in Canada. The 2,070 square foot building is a straw bale construction that features net-zero utility costs, zero toxins, zero fossil fuel use, zero waste output and a zero-carbon footprint.
Designed by the local firm Straworks, it showcases the use of natural building materials – the majority of them local – as well as elements such as a living roof, energy-efficient radiant heat and super-insulated walls that sequester carbon.
Named for the Rotary Club of Peterborough, the building represents ongoing cooperation between the Camp and the Club, both of whom are celebrating their centennials this year.
The Club is the primary financial sponsor of the Centre. Building on that sponsorship, a fundraising campaign led in 2020 and 2021 by David Goyette has now raised more than $470,000.
Wayne Harding, Rotary President recognized those Rotarians who first initiated the development of the Camp as a Club project in 1921.
“We are proud of our long-standing relationship with Camp Kawartha, and we are honoured to have our name associated with this outstanding project,” he said. “This building makes all of us leaders in the drive to reduce carbon emissions and sets Camp Kawartha apart as a trailblazer in environmentally sustainable construction.”
Photo Courtesy of CK.
“We are here today to marvel at this extraordinary building. The Board of Directors is thankful to the many individuals, organizations, foundations, and businesses who supported the vision of this exciting and unique project,” said Myke Healy, Camp Kawartha Board Chair. “This building is a testament to human ingenuity and Camp Kawartha’s mission. Not only is it a beautiful and fully functional health centre, it is a building that inspires camp visitors and teaches about the importance of environmental stewardship and sustainability.”
The Rotary Health Centre will provide educational opportunities for students, builders, architects, and campers to learn about carbon-neutral design, carbon sequestration, alternative energy generation, natural building materials, product life cycles and green-waste management systems.
Building tour information is available at info@campkawartha.ca.
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Remy Peters Becomes the Final Petes Frontline Worker of the Week
/Remy Peters becomes the final Petes Frontline Worker Drop the Puck winner announced on Friday.
Photo Courtesy of the Peterborough Petes.
Peters is a respiratory nurse who has been splitting his time between the Peterborough Regional Health Centre and Sunnybrook Hospital throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.
At the beginning of the pandemic, Peters was spending most of his time at Toronto’s Sunnybrook Hospital but slowly transitioned to the PRHC due to the increased demand for respiratory nurses in the Peterborough area.
The Petes are celebrating frontline workers who have gone above and beyond for their community during these unprecedented times.
“Both Remy and his wife are frontline workers, and have been working tirelessly throughout the pandemic,” said Stephanie Phillips-Nopes, who nominated Peters. “Remy is a kind-hearted man and never complains about his job and has been through a lot during the pandemic. He is a huge Petes fan and deserves a little bit of recognition for his efforts.”
Six frontline workers will take part in the Petes ceremonial puck drop at the maroon and white home opener on Oct. 14 at 7:05 p.m. This game will also mark the first time the Petes and Peterborough Memorial Centre reveal the new, state of the art video board to fans.
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Ontario COVID-19 Go-VAXX Bus Will Stop in Peterborough Region
/Peterborough Public Health is partnering with the province to bring the mobile Go-VAXX bus to the Peterborough Region, announced on Wednesday.
Stock photo
The Go-VAXX bus is a mobile COVID-19 vaccine clinic able to administer COVID-19 vaccines in various areas of the community.
On Sunday the Go-VAXX bus will be stopping at:
• Lang Pioneer Village Museum, 104 Lang Rd, Keene ON 10:00 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
• Lansdowne Place Mall, 645 Lansdowne St, W. Peterborough ON 2:00 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.
“We continue to see high rates of first doses being administered at our COVID-19 vaccine clinics,” said Donna Churipuy, Director of Public Health Programs. “This shows us that our community pop-up clinics are helping residents access the vaccine and we remain committed to making it as easy as possible for the community to get vaccinated, especially in the County of Peterborough.”
COVID-19 vaccine clinics will continue to run throughout the month of October.
“Through great partnerships with our municipalities, local district school boards, private schools, and postsecondary institutions, Peterborough Public Health has been able to host COVID-19 vaccine clinics for school age children and their families throughout the region,” said Churipuy.
Unless stated, school-based COVID-19 vaccine clinics are open to all community members who are 12 years of age or older as of 2021.
A full list of upcoming COVID-19 vaccine clinics can be found at www.peterboroughpublichealth.ca/walkin or by calling 705-743-1000.
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Schools To Be Served Healthy Food Through Student Nutrition Programs
/Over 50 student nutrition programs will be run in schools supported by Food for Kids Peterborough and County announced on Tuesday.
Photo Courtesy of Peterborough Public Health.
