Hello, Boozhoo, Bonjour,

I’d like to begin this month’s blog with some news you can use as it relates to parking. I’m pleased to announce improvements to the staff parking process, thanks to your feedback. The new system will offer greater flexibility, benefit part-time and casual staff, and reduce congestion in visitor lots. Details on the new parking exit credits system will be shared soon, with the transition set to begin in October. In the meantime, parking passes will no longer expire and we will work to create better efficiency in the process for all our users. Thanks to everyone who contributed their ideas and feedback on this subject.

As most of you know, this summer has been exceptionally busy for all of us at Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre. With record numbers of admissions and visits to our Emergency Department, your hard work and the extra efforts made to cover for colleagues on vacation have not gone unnoticed—thank you.

It comes as no surprise to anybody that there are increasing discussions both provincially and nationally about the significant challenges society is facing pertaining to healthcare. These conversations are happening everywhere—from politicians to community members, and understandably so. And our Hospital is not immune to the broader issues affecting the system. Many of you have felt the impact of these challenges firsthand, whether while caring for patients or even as patients yourselves.

One particularly stressful situation arises when trying to discharge patients. Whether it’s returning them to their community hospital, sending them home with services, or transferring them to another facility better suited to their needs. These delays can be frustrating for everyone involved. They can also burden incoming patients who need beds, pushing us to our capacity limits. Unfortunately, many of these issues stem from factors beyond our control—such as increased Emergency Department closures in the region, a shortage of primary care options, and various socioeconomic factors.

Yet, despite these stresses, we are managing our resources as effectively as possible – largely due to your professionalism. Our wait times remain competitive, and we’re making the most of our bedded capacity. To further support our capacity, we’re excited to introduce a new model of care in the Emergency Department. The Clinical Decision Unit (CDU) will establish a formal pathway for patients who don’t quite meet the criteria for hospital admission but still require further care before being discharged. This approach, set to roll out in late September, will help minimize unfavourable outcomes related to early discharges and unnecessary long-term hospital stays.

I realize this blog may seem less upbeat than normal, but it’s important to acknowledge the realities we’re facing. That said, I also want to emphasize the positives. Fall is just around the corner, and with it comes a fresh start. We have many exciting activities and initiatives planned for the upcoming months. For instance, the “Good Afternoon Innovation” series will showcase some of the innovative ways we’re improving care and research. Additionally, I’m particularly impressed with the leadership shown in implementing central intake for diagnostic imaging across Northwestern Ontario. This expansion not only improves efficiency but also makes us leaders in providing advanced technology to patients beyond our Hospital. Lastly, I’m thrilled to welcome a number of new volunteers to our Hospital and Health Research Community. Please join me in making them feel appreciated as they dedicate their time to enhancing our patients’ experiences.

I understand that the current environment can be challenging, but your resilience is remarkable. A positive staff experience directly translates to a positive patient experience, and I assure you that we’re continually seeking ways to mitigate these external pressures on your daily work. You are doing an incredible job under these circumstances.

As always, I welcome your feedback on these blogs or any other matter. You can reach me directly at rhonda.ellacott@tbh.net. Your insights are invaluable.