Niagara Health remains in a strong position to respond to the second wave of COVID-19.
The steady increase in cases of COVID-19 in Niagara and in the hospital reinforces that the virus remains an ongoing risk for our communities, in particular with our more vulnerable populations, and for the healthcare system.
This virus is not done with us. We need to keep pushing through and following at all times the important public health measures to control the transmission of this virus – masking, physical distancing and hand washing.
We have developed a regional model of care with other hospitals in our Local Health Integration Network region to support a coordinated response to caring for patients. This model will assist us in accommodating surges of patients with COVID, while minimizing the impact on our regular operations.
We have successfully resumed scheduled surgeries and other services paused during the first wave of the pandemic. This work is taking place amid new COVID safety measures, which include physical distancing in waiting rooms and increased cleaning between appointments.
During the pandemic, we have been placing an increasing focus on virtual care – using video conferencing and telephone calls – to meet the needs of our patients, and support safety by reducing traffic in and out of the hospital. Virtual care will be a bigger part of our services moving forward.
We’re thankful for the community’s patience and ask for your continued support as we care for our patients and families.
Important reminders for Essential Care Partners and support persons coming to Niagara Health:
Be 16 years of age or older.
Pass screening.
Provide name and phone number to staff to support contact tracing.
Not bring food or drink into the hospital for their own consumption.
Wear a mask properly at all times while in the hospital.
Maintain a safe physical distance of six feet (two metres) from others.
Wash their hands at every opportunity, especially before entering the unit or patient room.
Bring only essential items for patients, no valuables.
Extraordinary Caring. Every Person. Every Time.
