NSHN Implements Screening for Patients and Visitors

Earlier this week, the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care instructed all long-term care homes to begin active screening of all visitors as emerging information on COVID-19 suggests elderly individuals and those with underlying health conditions are at increased risk.

As a result, the North Shore Health Network (NSHN) has begun active screening of patients and visitors at all sites – Blind River, Thessalon, and Richards Landing – Matthews.  

The following protocols are in place at each site:

·         Blind River Site

o   All out-patients and visitors must enter through the hospital’s Main Entrance for screening during regular business hours (7am – 10pm).

After-hours screening will take place via the night entrance (10pm – 7am).

The long-term care entrance is closed until further notice; the long-term care unit remains open to visitors at this time.

·         Thessalon Site

o   All screening will take place prior to entering the department.

·          Richards Landing – Matthews

o   All screening will take place prior to entering the building.

After screening, patients or visitors will be asked to clean their hands, and may be asked to put on a mask.

If you have a fever and/or new onset of cough or difficulty breathing and in the 14 days before symptom onset you have been to a COVID-19 impacted area, or you have been in close contact with a confirmed or probable case of COVID-19, or you have been in close contact with a person with acute respiratory illness who has been to a COVID-19 impacted area, please delay your visit AND contact your health care provider or Telehealth Ontario (1-866-797-0000).

NSHN apologizes for any inconvenience, and thanks all for their cooperation in maintaining the well-being of our clients, patients, residents, and workers.