Hello, Boozhoo, Bonjour,

I would like to begin this month by talking about our capacity challenges and how hard you are all working. While most in the public believe the troubles associated with the pandemic are long behind us, we all know this to be a matter of ‘out of sight, out of mind’ — and for you, it is very visible. While words are not much relief, I want you to know that the Senior Leadership Team and I see you very clearly. This month saw us all dealing with record numbers of people using our Emergency Department and our capacity levels pushed to the limit. Let me say that again — record numbers. We continue to advocate at the provincial level for more support and we have seen some progress. It is an ongoing effort and just know that it is ongoing. The teamwork you have all shown is incredible, and your work collectively is helping to ensure we can make our vision of Exceptional care for every patient, every time a reality. Thank you to all of you for going that extra mile for the communities and people we serve.

On that note, it is getting to that time of year when flu and respiratory illness can affect our operations in many ways. Over the past few years, we have refined many of our processes and operations to adjust to the increased demand for care. I am confident in the surge plans we have in place to address the increased demand. Throughout the years, we have learned how best to support operations. We continue to make refinements and many of the improvements made were identified through feedback obtained from the COVID-19 After Action Review (AAR) Report. The report highlights the many challenges and successes that occurred as we worked our way through the many unknowns. We know we have learned so much and grown our teamwork both with the Hospital, the Health Research Institute and with our partners. The culmination of the feedback and summary of the activities and timelines can be found in the Executive Summary found here.

Throughout September, we had many events to acknowledge the significance of National Day of Truth and Reconciliation. We are aware of the importance of this day, and we collectively honour the survivors. We are committed and will continue to work towards creating an environment that provides equitable and culturally safe care. We know we have made progress but recognize that we have much more work ahead of us and an ongoing obligation to the communities we serve. Together with our partners and through the leadership of our Indigenous Collaboration Team (Miskwaa Biidaaban) we know we will continue to improve. I invite you to take some time and read the report.

We are also proud that it has been two years since the opening of the Tipi to commemorate the National Day of Truth and Reconciliation – an important initiative and one that has provided a cultural significance for our patients. As you know, innovation is crucial to advancing excellence in healthcare, whether through pioneering new ideas, streamlining processes, or starting projects that enhance operational efficiency, patient care, and service delivery. This month the “Good Afternoon Innovation” series highlighted some of the innovative ways we are improving care and research. It was well attended, and participants received an overview on many projects that provided a solution aimed at improving care. Thank you all for finding new ways to improve what we do. This year is our 20th Anniversary in this building, and we continue to celebrate milestones such as being recognized as one of Ontario’s most improved renal programs. As well, did you know that in September of 2015 we added our Combined Heat and Power Plant to conserve energy? Click the links above to learn more about these fantastic achievements.

Finally, next month is the 15th year of Sharing and Caring Together and I invite you to take part in the many activities that highlight the success and importance of Patient and Family Centred Care (PFCC). The week-long event will be highlighting various accomplishments with a focus of the PFCC philosophy. I am proud of the work done through the years to excel in this area. We are truly leaders in our industry, and we are constantly looking for new ways to make sure families and caregivers are front and centre in all that we do.

Thank you for taking the time to read this blog and I hope your fall is off to a strong start.

Your feedback is valued on these blogs or any other matter. You can reach me directly at rhonda.ellacott@tbh.net. Your insights are invaluable.