By Pam Wright, Local Journalism Initiative
The Chatham-Kent Health Alliance is currently running at 90 percent of its pre-pandemic capacity.
Hospitals across Canada ended elective surgeries and prepared for the worst when the COVID-19 pandemic rolled into Canada in March. Since July, hospitals have been gradually bringing patients back, scheduling services and procedures like mammograms and CT scans.
Caen Suni, vice-president of clinical programs and operations in Chatham-Kent, says the hospital is gradually working towards operating at full steam.
But, he won’t say when that will be, since the COVID-19 pandemic could change the plans.
“We’re continuing to make physical changes, so there are limitations in that sense,” explains Suni, adding the hospital is considering offering more procedures after hours and on weekends.
“It’s something that’s on the table,” he adds.
According to Suni, the number of emergency room visits is back to pre-pandemic normal, following a rise in the number of patients in April and May.
The Chatham-Kent Health Alliance employs 1,200 people and operates 198 beds at campuses in Chatham and Wallaceburg.
“We’re proud of the work we’re doing in renewing the hospital,” Suni notes. “It’s all about vigilance.”
Currently, no visitors are allowed entry to the CKHA at either campus, but some exceptions can be made with regard to palliative and pediatric patients.
The hospital also operates a caring partner program, which allows volunteers to provide one-on-one care such as feeding or providing psychological support.
To find out more about visitor restrictions or the partner program, please consult the CKHA website.
- The Thameville Herald
