/Long-term care residents undergo universal coronavirus testing 

Long-term care residents undergo universal coronavirus testing 

Long-term care residents undergo universal coronavirus testing 

 

By Jenn Watt

 
All
long-term care residents and staff have been tested for COVID-19 at
Haliburton Highlands Health Services facilities as part of a directive
of the Ontario government.
 
In an update to the community dated May
1, CEO Carolyn Plummer said the move would identify any asymptomatic
cases of the coronavirus, if there are any, and would contribute to the
bigger picture for the province as it seeks to better understand the
spread in long-term care homes.
As of May 5, no tests have returned positive results, however many tests are still pending.
“We
are looking at this testing as strictly one ‘snapshot in time’ and even
if all tests are negative, we will not relax our diligent work to
protect all residents, including through physical distancing and
handwashing, twice-daily screening of staff and residents, and the
wearing of masks in our facilities,” Plummer said in her letter.
 
HHHS has two long-term care facilities: Hyland Crest in Minden and Highland Wood in Haliburton.
Last
week, Plummer announced the corporation had moved to seal its long-term
care units from the adjoining hospital facilities in both towns,
creating additional protection for the residents and staff.
Temporary
walls, separate entrances, break rooms and change rooms were added and
work flows changed so staff and essential visitors are not moving
between the distinct sections of the building.
 Plummer also urged
those who need medical attention, whether COVID-19 related or not, to
continue to come to HHHS. Those who suspect they may have COVID-19 are
asked to call ahead to alert HHHS or other health service providers of
their symptoms.
 
To access the online self-assessment, go to
Ontario.ca/coronavirus or call 1-866-767-0000. If prompted to go to an
assessment centre, you must first make an appointment at the Haliburton
Family Medical Centre at 705-457-1212 and press 6.