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HomeMy WebLinkAboutHuron Expositor, 2015-12-23, Page 7Wednesday, December 23, 2015 • Huron Expositor 7 Holiday Healthcare Options Huron Business Development Corporation recognized by the BIA Avoiding Non -Emergency Hospital Visits During the Holidays Special to the Expositor At the Huron Perth Healthcare Alliance (HPHA) the four hospital sites are not immune to the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, most notably in the Emergency Departments. With some healthcare providers closing offices or reducing hours over the holidays, emergency departments like those at the Clinton Public Hospi- tal, St. Marys Memorial Hospital, Seaforth Com- munity Hospital and Strat- ford General Hospital can be the only option for individuals seeking medi- cal attention between Christmas and the New Year. This can lead to longer than usual wait times for healthier patients or for those who don't require immediate emergency care. "This time of year is def- initely challenging in terms of patient flow," says Anne Campbell, Vice President Partnerships & Patient Experience. "Under guid- ance from the South West Local Health Integration Network we've put together a plan that will help us deal with higher volumes of patients, both those who are admitted into hospital and those who visit our Emergency Departments." Dr. Miriam Mann, Medi- cal Program Director Emergency Medicine advises that by being pre- pared, an emergency visit may be avoided com- pletely or result in an improved experience if emergency care is needed over the holidays. "Making sure that every- one in your family has enough medications (both prescription and non-pre- scription) to get through the holidays and making sure all medical equip- ment such as inhalers, respirators, glucometers and diabetic supplies are in good working order is helpful. Knowing your family doctor's office hours and any back-up coverage it offers and knowing holiday hours of your local pharmacy can also help avoid a trip to the emergency depart- ment," notes Dr. Mann. Individuals should also note what degree of ser- vices are available from other agencies that they are associated with such as the Canadian Mental Health Association, the Alzhei- mer's Society or the Com- munity Care Access Centre. "This time of year can be overwhelming and a source of stress for many as we try and keep up with the demands and pres- sures of the season. It can also be a time when sea- sonal depression and feel- ings of sadness or loneli- ness are increased. Those who are distressed, fright- ened or unable to cope can reach out to our Huron Perth Helpline and Crisis Response Team via our Crisis Line, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at 1-888-829-7484," adds Campbell. Another resource avail- able 24/7 is Telehealth Ontario. Those looking for health advice or informa- tion can call 1-866-797- 0000 and speak to a Regis- tered Nurse. Telehealth nurses will not diagnose an illness or give medi- cine. Callers will be directed to the most appropriate level of care or be put in contact with a health professional who can advise on next steps. ea orthhuronexsositor.co This service is free and confidential. Of course not all emer- gency visits will be avoid- able and symptoms including pains or tight- ness in the chest, broken bones, wounds that may need stitches and short- ness of breath are all rea- sons to go to the Emer- gency Department. "Our Doctors and Nurses are here if anyone needs us," stresses Dr. Mann. Patients visiting the Emergency Department are asked to remember to bring their OHIP card or other medical insurance information along with a list or supply of current medications. Those bring- ing children are asked to bring diapers, blankets and other comfort items. If your condition worsens while waiting in the department please notify a staff member immediately. As with every emer- gency visit, no matter what time of year, patients will be seen by a doctor based on the severity of their illness or injury. "We ask those visiting our Emergency Depart- ments over the holidays to be patient," concludes Dr. Mann. "We know that this is the last place many peo- ple want to be. As always we will see our sickest patients first and we are committed to providing timely, safe quality care to all our patients and their families." Shaun Gregory (FROM THE LEFT) -Paul Nichol, Huron Business Development Corporation (HBDC) Economic Development Manager Jim Niesen, Huron Business Development Corporation (HBDC) Loans Manager (wearing Elf's hat) Maureen Agar, Seaforth BIA Board Member & Huron Business Development Corporation (HBDC) Board Member Jim Ferguson, Chair of Huron Business Development Corporation (HBDC). The 5th Annual "Care -A -Van of Hope" December 10 the United Way Perth -Huron travelled both Counties on Thursday, December lOt for their 5th annual Care -A -Van of Hope. Riding on a chartered bus sponsored by Cherrey Bus Lines, a group of volunteers, supporters and staff travelled to Scotiabank branches across the region on a mission to improve lives and build strong local communities. Through- out the day, they made stops in St. Marys, Exeter, Goderich, Listowel, Milverton, Mitchell and Stratford. In support of United Way Perth -Huron, Hope your holiday serves up a hearty portion of peace plus an extra helping of joy. We know serving you has been a real joy for us! JOHNNY'S Sub F3 Sandwich Cafe 23 Main St., Seaforth 519 -600 -JOHN (5646) they collected donations made at each branch between Dec. 1st and 10th, and were given additional on -the -spot donations from attendees. Local United Way Supported Partners were on hand to talk about the positive impact that is made possible by the funds raised. Branch staff and local dignitaries were also excited to welcome the Care -A Van. Through partnership with the Team Scotia Community Program, the efforts of each branch, and the generous donations of many individu- als, businesses and corpora- tions, Scotiabank helped the United Way raise an incredi- ble $88,932. This amount includes the $15,000 Scotia match, and is over $6,554 more than last year. Andrew Williams, Cam- paign Chair, enjoyed the over- all experience of the day. "We had an incredible journey, vis- iting the vibrant towns in both counties, thanking donors that make United Way's work possible, and hearing from our Supported Partners." The amount raised is an enormous help toward the 2015-2016 goal of $1,275,000 and a strong start toward a three-year goal of $4 million. 'Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from all of us at Optimal Health! 1 Dr. Kim, Dr. Eric, Kelly, Leanne, Lorenda, Kelsey ip. Thank you for letting us be part of your health care team in 2015! Optimal Healthmiwm ;v a CK1ROFRACTIC t www.optimal-health.ca • 519-600-2200.53 Main St., Seaforth