Stay up to date with the latest news
&
events from the NSHN (Blind River, Thessalon and Richards Landing - Matthews Memorial Sites)

Melanie Kubatlija 2023-12-11 Melanie Kubatlija 2023-12-11

NSHN Foundation Receives $100,000 From Matthews Memorial Hospital Foundation

Richards Landing, ON – Last week, the Board of the Matthews Memorial Hospital Foundation presented the North Shore Health Network Foundation with a cheque for $100,000 in reserved funds for the Richards Landing - Matthews Site.

The MMH Foundation will be winding up as of December 31, 2023. Founded in February 2014 to raise money for the Richards Landing Site - the MMHF Board thanked everyone for the generous donations in support over the past 9 years. The funds passed along to the NSHN Foundation will continue to be utilized to improve health care services and programs provided by the North Shore Health Network at the Richards Landing - Matthews Site on St. Joseph Island.

“We are so blessed to be supported by great community members! Thanks to the MMHF for years of dedicated work and entrusting the North Shore Health Network Foundation with being custodians of these funds, to be used for the benefit of the North Shore Health Network Richards Landing Matthews Site.” – Tim Vine, President & CEO, NSHN.

Melanie Kubatlija 2023-11-29 Melanie Kubatlija 2023-11-29

NSHN Returns to Universal Masking

The North Shore Health Network (NSHN) has returned to universal masking across all sites – Blind River, Thessalon and Richards Landing-Matthews – as a result of increased activity of COVID-19 and other respiratory viruses in our area.

All health care workers and members of the public (patients, clients, essential caregivers and visitors) are reminded to wear a mask at all times unless one of the following applies:

· a valid mask exemption is declared;

· the mask is required to be removed for an emergency or medical purpose;

· while eating or drinking; or

· admitted patients in assigned rooms.

NSHN approved masks are available at all entrances.

Visitors and Essential Caregivers who are feeling unwell are asked to postpone visiting until they are no longer experiencing symptoms.

Feeling unwell? Book an appointment for testing at an NSHN Clinical Assessment Centre by visiting: www.nshnbooking.care or calling 705-356-2265 ext. 2578.

The North Shore Health Network has a zero-tolerance policy towards violence and harassment in the workplace. No worker should be subjected to violent, threatening and/or abusive behaviour. Any such behaviour may result in the loss of access to visiting or services. Thank you for treating our workers with respect.

Charlyn Beneteau 2023-11-13 Charlyn Beneteau 2023-11-13

Online Booking - Laboratory

NEW ONLINE BOOKING AVAILABLE! 📅

Starting November 13, 2023, we're making your life easier with our Online Booking system for blood work appointments. Now you can schedule your appointments conveniently from the comfort of your home or wherever you are!

REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT

👉 How to Book Online: If you have a blood work requisition from your provider, follow these steps:

1️⃣ Click the button above or visit our booking website www.nshnbooking.care/blood-testing to book online.

2️⃣ You can also call our dedicated Appointment Line at 1-705-356-2265 or toll-free at 1-888-425-0321 Ext. 2660.

3️⃣ Can't reach us right away? No problem! Leave a message, and a staff member will return your call within 2 business days.

CONVENIENCE AT YOUR FINGERTIPS!

🔹 Need to change or cancel your appointment? You can do that online too or leave a message on the appointment booking line.

ABOUT OUR LABORATORY DEPARTMENT

Our Outpatient Laboratory is here to serve you! We offer a range of essential services, including laboratory testing in biochemistry, hematology, and transfusion medicine, all conducted by licensed medical laboratory technologists.

Our dedicated team of nine employees provides round-the-clock coverage for emergencies. We also collaborate with other facilities and medical specialists, ensuring your health is in good hands.

A laboratory is a crucial part of any hospital, as accurate results play a significant role in patient care. At least 70% of a physician's treatment decisions are based on lab results. Our services benefit the entire community, including patients, physicians, nursing staff, and other health professionals.

Your well-being is our priority, and now, scheduling your blood work appointments has never been easier. Visit our booking website www.nshnbooking.care/blood-testing or call our dedicated Appointment Line today!

Melanie Kubatlija 2023-05-31 Melanie Kubatlija 2023-05-31

Blind River Site Emergency Department OPEN - June 2, 2023 UPDATED

Updated June 1/23:

The Emergency Department at the Blind River Site of the North Shore Health Network (NSHN) will remain open to the public on Friday June 2nd. The temporary closure of the site announced May 31st has been averted.

NSHN would like to thank the community for your continued patience and understanding as we work with our partners towards sustainable resources to serve your healthcare needs. For up to date information regarding please visit our website: www.nshn.care or via Facebook “North Shore Health Network.”

———————-

The Emergency Department at the Blind River Site of the North Shore Health Network (NSHN) will be temporarily closing on the following dates due to physician shortages:

· From 8:00 am on Friday June 2, 2023 and reopening Saturday June 3, 2023 at 8:00 am.

The North Shore Health Network continues to investigate all possible options to provide safe access to care. Every effort will continue to be made and NSHN is committed to keeping the community informed regarding this situation.

Anyone requiring immediate medical attention should call 9-1-1. Ambulances will be re-routed to one of the following: NSHN Thessalon Site or St. Joseph’s General Hospital Elliot Lake.

The closest Emergency Departments to the Blind River Site are:

· Thessalon Site – North Shore Health Network – 135 Dawson St., Thessalon ON, P0R 1L0

· St. Joseph’s General Hospital Elliot Lake – 70 Spine Rd., Elliot Lake, ON, P5A 1X2

Access to services for non-emergent health advice or information is available by calling Health811 by calling 8-1-1. Toll free TTY line: 1-866-797-007. Or start a live chat with an advisor online at: https://healthconnectontario.health.gov.on.ca.

NSHN would like to thank the community for your continued patience and understanding during this time as we work with our partners towards sustainable resources to serve your healthcare needs. For further information please visit our website: www.nshn.care or via Facebook “North Shore Health Network.”

Melanie Kubatlija 2023-05-29 Melanie Kubatlija 2023-05-29

Thessalon Site Emergency Department Closure - May 31, 2023 **UPDATED

May 31, 2023 - UPDATED - NSHN has secured physician coverage and will re-open the Thessalon Site to full coverage at 8:00 pm today (May 31, 2023).

The Emergency Department at the Thessalon Site of the North Shore Health Network (NSHN) will be temporarily closing on the following dates due to physician shortages:

From 8:00 am on Wednesday May 31, 2023 and reopening Wednesday May 31, 2023 at 8:00 pm.

Anyone requiring immediate medical attention should call 9-1-1. Ambulances will be re-routed to one of the following: NSHN Blind River Site, NSHN Richards Landing-Matthews Site, or Sault Area Hospital.

The closest Emergency Departments to the Thessalon Site are:

· Blind River Site – North Shore Health Network – 525 Causley St., Blind River, ON

· Richards Landing Site – North Shore Health Network – 1180 Richards St., Richards Landing, ON

· Sault Area Hospital – 750 Great Northern Rd., Sault Ste. Marie, ON

Access to services for non-emergent health advice or information is available by calling Health811 by calling 8-1-1. Toll free TTY line: 1-866-797-007. Or start a live chat with an advisor online at: https://healthconnectontario.health.gov.on.ca.

NSHN would like to thank the community for your continued patience and understanding during this time as we work with our partners towards sustainable resources to serve your healthcare needs. For further information please visit our website: www.nshn.care or via Facebook “North Shore Health Network.”

Melanie Kubatlija 2023-05-26 Melanie Kubatlija 2023-05-26

Thessalon Site Emergency Department Closure - May 29, 2023

Thessalon, ON – The Emergency Department at the Thessalon Site of the North Shore Health Network (NSHN) will be temporarily closing on the following dates due to physician shortages:

· From 8:00 am on Monday May 29, 2023 and reopening Monday May 29, 2023 at 8:00 pm.

Anyone requiring immediate medical attention should call 9-1-1. Ambulances will be re-routed to one of the following: NSHN Blind River Site, NSHN Richards Landing-Matthews Site, or Sault Area Hospital.

The closest Emergency Departments to the Thessalon Site are:

· Blind River Site – North Shore Health Network – 525 Causley St., Blind River, ON

· Richards Landing Site – North Shore Health Network – 1180 Richards St., Richards Landing, ON

· Sault Area Hospital – 750 Great Northern Rd., Sault Ste. Marie, ON

Melanie Kubatlija 2023-05-23 Melanie Kubatlija 2023-05-23

Thessalon Site Emergency Department Closure - May 24 & 25, 2023

The Emergency Department at the Thessalon Site of the North Shore Health Network (NSHN) will be temporarily closing on the following dates due to physician shortages:

· From 8:00 am on Wednesday May 24, 2023 and reopening Friday May 26, 2023 at 8:00 am.

The North Shore Health Network has investigated all possible options to continue to provide safe access to care, however, the difficult decision has been made to announce the temporary Thessalon Site Emergency Department closure. Every effort will continue to be made and NSHN is committed to keeping the community informed regarding this situation.

The closest Emergency Departments to the Thessalon Site are:

· Blind River Site – North Shore Health Network – 525 Causley St., Blind River, ON

· Richards Landing Site – North Shore Health Network – 1180 Richards St., Richards Landing, ON

· Sault Area Hospital – 750 Great Northern Rd., Sault Ste. Marie, ON

Charlyn Beneteau 2023-03-23 Charlyn Beneteau 2023-03-23

Launch Day: GEM5000 Point-of-Care Testing

Today NSHN is celebrating the successful implementation of our GEM5000 point-of-care testing machines at all 3 sites - Blind River, Thessalon and Richards Landing - Matthews.

The GEM5000 is used to test bloodwork from the Emergency Department on site. Results are available in minutes! These results aid in the clinical decision making for patients without the time delay of transporting samples to another facility. This particular instrument tests electrolytes (i.e. sodium, potassium, etc.) and blood gases.

The GEM5000 follows the successful launch of another point-of-care testing device last year - the Alere Triage Meter - which tests for heart attacks and blood clots in the lungs.

A large team was involved in this accomplishment. Thank you to Laboratory Staff, Providers, IT, Nursing Staff, NSHN's Laboratory Director and the Clinical Quality, Education & Communication Administrative Lead for your support on this project.

Job well done!

Thessalon Site (left to right): Brooke Rutledge, Dr. Garniss, Nicole Senecal and Hilary Glawson

Richards Landing – Matthews Site (left to right): Bonnie Campbell, Dr. Beller, Dr. Crawford and Lauren Smith.

Blind River Site (left to right): Mark Donner, Sarah Munro, Melanie Gionette, Paul Verrall and Heather Lawrence, Kneeling is Dylan Alemany-POC coordinator-Charge Technologist

Melanie Kubatlija 2022-11-07 Melanie Kubatlija 2022-11-07

NSHN Announces Incoming President & CEO

The Board of Trustees of the North Shore Health Network (NSHN) is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Tim Vine as the organization’s next President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO).

Mr. Tim Vine - Incoming NSHN President & CEO begins on January 3, 2023.

Tim has a B.A. in Economics and a M.A. and Ph.D. in Political Science, and will complete his M.B.A in the spring of 2023. After starting his career in private equity, Tim made the choice to change direction and take on roles serving the community. He has operated in the municipal and healthcare sectors over the last decade, including as Interim Co-CEO at the Manitoulin Health Centre, and most recently as Vice President Finance and Corporate Services and Chief Financial Officer at St. Joseph’s General Hospital Elliot Lake.

Understanding the challenges of rural Northern healthcare, Tim will bring his diverse education and professional experience to NSHN as it continues to deal with COVID-19 and health human resources shortages.

Donna Latulippe, Chair of the NSHN Board of Trustees expressed excitement and optimism in Tim’s appointment, “we had many excellent candidates apply for the position, but Tim stood out. Not only for his experience in rural hospital administration, but also because he lives in the community and is clearly committed to serving within it.”

Tim will begin his role as President and CEO on January 3, 2023.

“NSHN is my local provider, the one my family, and many of my wife’s family across the North Shore access. I want to make sure that local excellent care is available for my community and all the communities NSHN serves. I am honoured to have been the successful candidate, and I cannot wait to join this excellent team and get started on the good, hard work that lies ahead to ensure the promise of public healthcare is met in our communities.” - Tim Vine, Incoming President & CEO, North Shore Health Network

The Board of Trustees would like to thank Mr. David Murray, for serving as interim President and CEO and for his leadership over the past several months, and wish him all the best in his future endeavours.

Charlyn Beneteau 2022-09-26 Charlyn Beneteau 2022-09-26

Cameco Flower Donation

Thank you Cameco Ontario for the lovely donation of flowers to the residents of the North Shore Health Network's Long-Term Care Home, they certainly brightened the day for many.

Melanie Kubatlija 2022-03-31 Melanie Kubatlija 2022-03-31

Laboratory Appointment Update

The North Shore Health Network Laboratory continues to experience staffing challenges impacting appointment scheduling.

Due to increased volumes, laboratory appointments are currently being booked up to 2 weeks from the time of call. If you require bloodwork for a specific date, please call to book an appointment well in advance to avoid delays.

All appointments must be pre-scheduled through the dedicated appointment line: 1-705-356-2265 or toll-free 1-888-425-0321 Ext. 2660. Clearly provide your name and best daytime telephone number on the messaging service, a staff member will return your call within 2 business days.

We apologize for the inconvenience and kindly thank you for your patience. Patients may also pursue testing at an alternate provider such as Dyna Care in Elliot Lake or any LifeLabs location.

Thank you for treating our healthcare workers with kindness and respect.

Melanie Kubatlija 2022-01-15 Melanie Kubatlija 2022-01-15

NSHN Long-Term Care Unit - COVID-19

The North Shore Health Network has been advised that workers associated with the Long-Term Care Unit have tested positive for COVID-19. To date, investigation into each case has determined that the virus was acquired through exposure outside of the workplace. The workers are self-isolating at home, following public health direction.

NSHN is working with Algoma Public Health to take a proactive approach to identify and isolate any potential risks to residents, workers & essential caregivers. The following “safety nets” have been applied:

· All long-term care residents and workers have been tested for COVID-19.

· Essential caregivers identified as potential high-risk contacts have been tested for COVID-19.

· All residents have been placed in isolation (droplet/contact).

· Access to the long-term care unit is limited.

o While residents are in isolation, access to the home for Essential Caregivers is not impacted; however, we kindly ask that limited visitation is considered during this time. Exceptions will be made for compassionate or end-of-life circumstances. All visits must be booked in advance by calling 705-356-2265 ext. 2673 or 2350.

Our team continues to work tirelessly. The safety of workers, providers, residents, patients, clients and visitors is a top priority. We urge the community to continue to follow public health guidance as we work to end this pandemic.

Thank you for treating our healthcare workers with kindness and respect.

Melanie Kubatlija 2022-01-04 Melanie Kubatlija 2022-01-04

Long-Term Care Visiting Guidelines Updated

In response to the evolving Omicron situation, the Ontario government, in consultation with the Chief Medical Officer of Health, is taking further actions to protect the health and safety of residents, staff and caregivers in long-term care homes.

On December 30th additional temporary measures went into effect including:

· Access to long-term care homes by general visitors has been paused.

o Designated essential caregivers may continue to enter the home.

· Day absences for all residents for social purposes has been paused.

The measures put in place on December 30th are in addition to the measures announced in mid-December that require all designated essential caregivers to be fully vaccinated* unless they have a valid medical exemption or are attending to a resident in a palliative end-of-life situation. Essential caregivers who were not fully vaccinated were required to have a first dose of COVID-19 vaccine by December 20, 2021 and all required doses to be considered fully vaccinated by February 21, 2022. In the interim, designated essential caregivers who are not fully vaccinated are required to restrict their visit to the resident’s room.

*Fully Vaccinated = received the full series of a vaccine or a combination of vaccines accepted by the Government of Canada (Pfizer, Moderna, AstraZeneca, Janssen/Johnson & Johnson); and you have received your last dose at least 14 days prior to your visit.

· Visiting hours are 9 am – 4 pm and visits must be booked in advance by calling 705-356-2265 ext. 2673 or 2350.

o All staff, students, volunteers, and designated essential caregivers, regardless of vaccination status, require testing at least twice a week prior to entry into the home as part of enhanced screening practices.

While COVID-19 immunizations have demonstrated to be very effective, it is important for Ontarians to not let their guard down in the ongoing fight against the pandemic, in particular with the Delta and Omicron variants. It is essential that all staff, essential caregivers and residents in long-term care homes continue to practice public health measures including screening at entry, masking, physical distancing, hand hygiene and staying home when sick.

For more information regarding Long-Term Care Visiting Guidelines – please contact 705-356-2265 or toll-free 1-888-425-0321 ext. 2673 or 2728.

Melanie Kubatlija 2021-12-14 Melanie Kubatlija 2021-12-14

NSHN Worker Tests Positive for COVID-19

On December 13, 2021 we received confirmation from Algoma Public Health that an NSHN staff member from the Blind River Site tested positive for COVID-19. This person acquired their COVID-19 infection through exposure outside of the work setting.

NSHN has worked closely with the worker, confirming that while at work all appropriate and best practice infection prevention and control measures were taken. The worker is self-isolating at home, following public health direction.

In collaboration with NSHN, Algoma Public Health is conducting contact tracing and will notify all close contacts directly. If you are not contacted directly, you are not considered a close contact.

NSHN continues to take all the proper precautions and steps to keep our staff, physicians, and patients safe.

Melanie Kubatlija 2021-12-13 Melanie Kubatlija 2021-12-13

NSHN Statement Re: Thessalon Site Physician Coverage

Blind River, ON – The North Shore Health Network (NSHN) continues to work with partners to ensure sustained Emergency Department physician coverage at the Thessalon Site.

“We remain hopeful that a solution will be found and we thank all partners involved in the important conversations taking place,” says NSHN President and CEO Richard Joly.

NSHN remains committed to pursuing every available avenue to avoid closure and is committed to keeping the community informed regarding the situation.

Melanie Kubatlija 2021-12-11 Melanie Kubatlija 2021-12-11

NSHN Worker Tests Positive for COVID-19

On December 10, 2021 we received confirmation from Algoma Public Health that an NSHN staff member from the Thessalon Site tested positive for COVID-19. This person acquired their COVID-19 infection through exposure outside of the work setting.

In collaboration with NSHN, Algoma Public Health is conducting contact tracing and will notify all close contacts directly. If you are not contacted directly, you are not considered a close contact.

NSHN continues to take all the proper precautions and steps to keep our staff, physicians, and patients safe.

Melanie Kubatlija 2021-12-10 Melanie Kubatlija 2021-12-10

NOTICE: NSHN Visiting Guidelines for Acute Care, Emergency Department & Outpatient Updated

Effective December 9, 2021 – changes to the North Shore Health Network Visiting Guidelines will come into effect for the Emergency Department, Acute Care Unit and Outpatient Services at all NSHN sites – Blind River, Thessalon & Richards Landing – Matthews.

EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT / ACUTE CARE UNIT – ALL SITES

ONLY vaccinated* Essential Caregivers will be able to enter the facility.~

NO General Visiting at this time.

Exceptions to the Essential Caregiver Requirement may be considered in the following circumstances:

· Accompanying someone under the age of 18.

· Providing support for patients in labour.

· End-of-life situations.

· Trauma / critical illness.

· Vulnerable individuals (e.g. cognitive impairment, significant development and/or intellectual disability, unable to effectively communicate, or mobility issue.)

· Children under 12 will be considered for visits on an individual basis in extenuating circumstances.

~For more information see Figure 1.1 NSHN COVID-19 Visiting Framework.

OUTPATIENT SERVICES (Laboratory / Medical Imaging / Physiotherapy) – ALL SITES

ONLY vaccinated* Essential Caregivers will be able to enter the facility.

· Support persons for Outpatients are considered Essential Caregivers and MUST be vaccinated to enter the facility. For an exception to be considered, individuals must speak with the patient’s care team.

REQUIREMENTS FOR ALL ESSENTIAL CAREGIVERS:

· Essential Caregivers who are fully vaccinated* do not require proof of a negative COVID-19 swab to enter the facility; but must provide evidence of vaccination status upon screening.

· All visitors are required to follow infection prevention and control measures including: active screening, hand hygiene, wearing a medical mask and eye protection, and practicing physical distancing.

LONG-TERM CARE**

COVID-19 Directive #3 for Long-Term Care Homes (Directive #3) under the Long-Term Care Homes Act, 2007 (LTCHA) issued by the Chief Medical Officer of Health establishes requirements for visits to long-term care homes.

· Essential caregivers and general visitors will be asked to provide proof of COVID-19 vaccination or proof of a negative COVID-19 test within the last 7 days to enter the home.**

· For more information regarding Long-Term Care Visiting, please contact 705-356-2265 ext. 2728.

Figure 1.1 – NSHN COVID-19 VISITING FRAMEWORK

Melanie Kubatlija 2021-12-09 Melanie Kubatlija 2021-12-09

NOTICE: NSHN WORKER TESTS POSITIVE FOR COVID-19

The North Shore Health Network (NSHN) has received confirmation from Algoma Public Health that a staff member from the Thessalon Site has tested positive for COVID-19.

In collaboration with NSHN, Algoma Public Health has conducted contact tracing and has notified all close contacts directly. If you are not contacted directly by Algoma Public Health, you are not considered a close contact.

In addition, in an effort to reduce traffic at the Thessalon Site, NSHN will be limiting all Medical Imaging appointments to those deemed urgent or essential only for the next 14 days.

There is no change in access to Emergency Department Services.

Our team continues to work tirelessly throughout the pandemic. The safety of workers, providers, patients, clients, residents and visitors is a top priority. We urge the community to continue to follow public health guidance. Wear a mask, social distance, wash your hands often, and stay home as much as possible.

Thank you for treating our healthcare workers with kindness and respect.

To book an appointment for COVID-19 testing, contact an NSHN COVID-19 Assessment Centre:

· 705-356-2265 or toll-free 1-888-425-0321

o ext. 2661 (Blind River) or ext. 2662 (Thessalon)

· Or, complete the online form at: www.nshn.care/covid19.

Melanie Kubatlija 2021-09-09 Melanie Kubatlija 2021-09-09

ACUTE CARE VISITING UPDATE

Effective Friday September 10, 2021 NSHN is updating Acute Care Visiting Guidelines for General Visitors / Essential Caregivers:

- Patients are limited to 2 visitors per day (this may be a combination of general and essential visitors, but is limited to 2).

- Visitors who are fully vaccinated* do not require proof of a negative COVID-19 swab to enter the facility; but must provide evidence of vaccination status upon screening.

- Visitors who are unvaccinated, partially vaccinated^, or whose vaccination status is unknown are required to demonstrate proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR swab, completed within the previous 7 days, to visit.

All visitors are required to follow infection prevention and control measures including: active screening, hand hygiene, wearing a medical mask and eye protection, and practicing physical distancing.

^Partially Vaccinated = for two-dose vaccines (Pfizer, Moderna, AstraZeneca), you are considered partially vaccinated if you have received only one dose, or if 14 days have not yet passed from the date of your last dose. For one-dose vaccines (Janssen/Johnson & Johnson), you are considered partially vaccinated if 14 days have not yet passed from the date of your dose.

Melanie Kubatlija 2021-08-11 Melanie Kubatlija 2021-08-11

TRANSITION OF HANDI-TRANSIT SERVICES

Blind River, ON – For over 25 years, the Handi-Transit service operating in partnership with the North Shore Health Network (NSHN) and the Town of Blind River, has provided reliable transportation services for older adults who can no longer regularly drive or are without access to a personal vehicle, and clients with physical, developmental or mental health needs.

NSHN and the Town of Blind River recognize that access to Handi-Transit services is an important link for individuals to participate in civic and social life, and helps to increase independence, particularly for those with limited mobility or who live alone. Focused on the mandate of a healthcare facility and continued delivery of the highest quality care, NSHN initiated negotiations to transition the transportation services back to the Town of Blind River.

Through resolution dated August 9, 2021, Council has directed the CAO to discuss with bus providers the management and day-to-day operations of the Handi-Transit to ensure the level of service is maintained or enhanced.

As negotiations continue, both NSHN and the Town of Blind River are committed to ensuring a seamless transition in services for the community. It is anticipated that the changeover of services will take place in the Fall / Winter of 2021.