First Mobile Clinic For Mental Health and Addiction Coming to Peterborough Area

A custom-built retrofitted bus for mental health and addiction services is coming to Peterborough and the surrounding area announced by the Ontario Government at the Knights of Columbus Doyle Hall on Thursday.

Hon. Michael Tibollo (left), Ontario’s Associate Minister of Mental Health and Addictions has previously spent a decade as an addiction counsellor. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The setup will have a team of nurse practitioners, social and service workers to provide resources, support — including psychiatric — with follow-ups as necessary. The bus is expected to be operating by roughly Jan. 1.

“The first mobile health unit to be deployed in the province of Ontario is being funded by the Ontario government,” Hon. Michael Tibollo, Ontario’s Associate Minister of Mental Health and Addictions. ”The unit will provide support and services to individuals to their local communities without having to have them come into the hospital or go to one of the other cities to get support for mental health and addictions.”

The Canadian Mental Health Association Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge (CMHA-HKPR) will be responsible for overseeing the development and operation of the mobile mental health clinic in Peterborough. They provide programming and services to the counties of Haliburton, Northumberland, Peterborough and the City of Kawartha Lakes,

The mobile unit reduces the need for people to travel to find services and can meet more clients in more places.

“Through our government’s Roadmap to Wellness we are committed to breaking down barriers to accessing high-quality mental health and addictions services where and when it’s needed,” said Christine Elliott, Deputy Premier and Minister of Health. “This innovative partnership will help to bring needed mental health and addictions services directly to individuals living in Peterborough and the surrounding areas.”

Thrilled to be with @DaveSmithPtbo to announce that our government is investing in the development of a mobile #MentalHealth and addictions clinic for #Peterborough & the surrounding region!

This clinic will bring MHA services directly to the communities that need them. pic.twitter.com/g0yUaYcxgR

— Michael Tibollo (@MichaelTibollo) October 28, 2021

“Since the release of Roadmap to Wellness last year, our government’s top priority has been to continue making critical investments that will fill urgent gaps in mental health and addictions care, reduce waiting lists and address extensive wait times,” said Tibollo. “Through the development of the mobile mental health clinic, clients and families in Peterborough and the surrounding region will have greater access to high-quality, evidence-based care in a setting where they are fully supported on their journey towards recovery.”

A second bus will be added through fundraising efforts from the CMHA. One for Peterborough and Northumberland County and the other for Haliburton and the City of Kawartha Lakes. The Ontario government will help fund the operation of both mobile units.

"Mental health is a pandemic,” said Hon. Michael Tibollo, Ontario’s Associate Minister of Mental Health and Addictions. “We have to remember that people's mental health is fundamental to any recovery."

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for PTBOBuzz newsletter here.

Tips for a Safe Halloween From Peterborough Public Health

As Halloween approaches, Peterborough Public Health is sharing tips for how to plan fun and safe celebrations.

File Photo.

“Halloween is an exciting time of year for all ages, and it is important to plan COVID-19-safe Halloween activities while also remembering traditional Public Health ‘tricks’,” said Julie Ingram, Manager of Environmental Health. “Whether you’re trick-or-treating or attending a party, be sure to follow the social gathering limits and avoid crowds.”

PPH advises families start the night with a nutritious supper with protein, whole grains and vegetables and fruit. Kids should decide how much candy to consume, so they learn the importance of self-regulation. An adult should check the candy for tampering and allergens before eating treats

For those trick-or-treating, PPH recommends:

• Screen for COVID-19 symptoms before trick-or-treating. Stay home if you are experiencing symptoms or feel ill, even for minor symptoms like a runny nose.

• Wear a cloth face covering when knocking on a door or going inside. A costume mask should not be worn as a substitute or over a face covering.

• Make sure costumes are visible at night by wearing bright or reflective clothing.

• Avoid crowding in hallways or by doors.

• Wash or sanitize hands frequently. Make sure hands are clean before eating any treats.

• Throw away anything homemade or repackaged treats.

For those handing out treats, PPH recommends:

• Using tongs or other tools when handing out treats. Avoid leaving treats in a bowl for trick-or-treaters to grab.

• Wearing a face covering that fully covers your mouth, nose, and chin.

• If you hand out treats indoors, place a sign asking to knock instead of ringing the doorbell. If you do use a doorbell try to frequently disinfect it.

• Sanitize other frequently touched surfaces such as railings or doorknobs.

• Only offer commercially-packaged treats.

For anyone who is looking to attend a costume party or other similar gathering, PPH is reminding residents that private social gatherings must be limited to 25 people indoors and 100 people outdoors. Outdoor gatherings are encouraged over indoor gatherings.

Remember to wash hands frequently and avoid sharing food or drinks. Be aware of who your close contacts are, and maintain physical distancing. Hosts are encouraged to keep a list of guests in case contact tracing is needed.

Alternative options for those not comfortable going out include:

• Making spooky snacks at home with your household instead of going out.

• Decorating your house. Have a contest with your neighbours. Remember to physically distance if not part of the same household and wear a non-medical mask or face covering if you can’t keep two meters apart.

• Having an outdoor scavenger hunt with those in your household.

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for PTBOBuzz newsletter here.

Light the Way to 160k Receives $25,000 Donation to Assist Renovation of Opioid Response Hub

Fourcast has announced a $25,000 contribution by the Brian and Lynne Kelly Family Fund of The Community Foundation of Greater Peterborough to the Light The Way to $160K campaign, on Tuesday.

Site of the future Opioid Response Hub. Photo by Angela O’Grady.

This donation will go towards assisting with the renovation of the Opioid Response Hub at 220 Simcoe St. in downtown Peterborough.

“We hope this donation encourages others to learn about the opioid crisis and make their own contributions to the Light the Way Campaign,” said Brian Kelly.

“Brian and Lynne recognize that the opioid issue is destroying lives, shattering families and taking its toll on the entire community,” says Co-Executive Director of the Community Foundation, Jennifer DeBues. “Supporting the Opioid Response Hub is an active step towards creating solutions to the opioid crisis in Peterborough.”

Currently, 220 Simcoe Street is undergoing significant renovations that will provide members of organizations such as Fourcast, PARN, the 360 Degree Nurse Practitioner-Led Clinic (NPLC), as well as Peterborough County Paramedics and the Mobile Support Overdose Resource Team (MSORT) to provide wraparound services and supports.

With the donation, the Light The Way to $160K campaign has reached over $70,000. The campaign runs until November 30th. To contribute to the Light the Way to $160K campaign, donations can be made at the Community Foundation of Greater Peterborough web site at www.cfgp.ca/LightTheWay.

For those who prefer to mail or drop off cheques, please make the cheques out to ‘Community Foundation of Greater Peterborough’ and include ‘CTS Fund’ in the memo. They can be addressed to the organization at 261 George St N Suite 202, Peterborough, ON K9J 3G9.

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for PTBOBuzz newsletter here.

Ontario Government Announces Arena Guidelines Changes

The province has announced A Plan to Safely Reopen Ontario and Manage COVID-19 for the Long Term according to Peterborough Public Health (PPH) announced Monday.

File Photo.

PPH has confirmed that facilities used for sports and recreational fitness activities including areas for spectators within those facilities, can make updates to their facility safety plans. Below are some of the key highlights of the announcement:

Effective 12:01 a.m. on Mon. October 25th, 2021:

• Proof of vaccination (POV) is required for every person 12+ entering the indoor facility unless they have an approved exemption.  

  • In the Peterborough Public Health region, there is a letter of instruction in effect for indoor facilities where organized sports are played or practiced that must be implemented, which requires POV for coaches, volunteers, and officials 12 years of age and older (effective Oct. 18th), as well as for active participants 12-17 (which commences Nov. 26).  

  • For more information about approved exemptions, refer to the guidance document, beginning on page 4.  

• Capacity limits for facilities can be removed; which means confirming proof of vaccine is exceptionally important. 

• Physical distancing requirements in spectator and non-spectator areas can be removed. 

• Contact tracing requirements remain for everyone entering the facility

• Active screening requirements remain for everyone entering the facility

• Facilities are still required to have safety plans

• Organized sports leagues and organized events must submit a safety plan to the facility prior to being granted a permit to use the facility

• Everyone must wear a mask indoors, limited exemptions apply (including when a person is engaged in athletic or fitness activity)

• Enhanced cleaning & disinfection is still required

Photo Courtesy of Peterborough Public Health.

Reopening/Exit Step Guidelines-General:  

1.    Hand sanitization upon entry of the facility is highly recommended.  

2.    Masks are required in indoor areas. Some exemptions apply as per the provincial regulations.  

3.    All individuals entering must provide proof of vaccination (POV) before entering the facility. Individuals must be fully vaccinated (two doses plus 14 days) against COVID-19 and provide their proof of vaccination along with approved Identification in order to access all indoor sport and recreation facilities. Limited exemptions are permitted. 

4.    All individuals entering an arena facility must actively screen to record the name(s) and contact information of every member of the public entering the facility. This includes all participants including coaches, athletes, and spectators from both home and visiting teams, using the following link (https://www.peterborough.ca/ArenaScreen/). Confirmation is presented in digital (email/screenshot) or printed paper copy form to security/city staff prior to entry  

5.    Floor markers, signage and enhanced cleaning measures using disinfectant with a DIN# are implemented to control the risk of transmission.    

6.    An approved safety plan is required from each user group prior to facility access or rental 

Reopening/Exit Step Guidelines- Arenas:  

1. Groups are to enter using designated entry points and adhere to all directional signage and staff direction while inside and while exiting the facility. 

2. Prior to entry, all individuals including players, coaches/trainers, instructors, officials/ timekeepers, and all spectators must provide POV and completion of screening to on duty security/city staff at designated entry points of each facility 

3. No capacity limit to on ice participants, unless identified (i.e. Public Skating/Programs)  

4. Full access allowed during the following hours (Mon-Fri 4pm-11pm or Weekends 7am-11pm), but designated entrances must be utilized  

5. Controlled access is still effective for all nonprime hours Mon-Friday 6a-3pm. Access to be provided by city staff 30 mins prior to permitted time at designated point of entry.  

6. Changerooms provided with no capacity restrictions. Please note rooms may not be available immediately but will be no later than 30 mins prior to permitted time  

7. Changerooms are to be exited by all players/coaches 20 mins following permitted time to permit required cleaning and sanitizing by City staff. 

8. Showers will be available to all user groups  

9. Off-ice training and activities (i.e shooting pucks/balls) are not permitted inside the facility. Warm up activities such as stretching will be permitted but should be minimized within the facility.

10. All permit holders are responsible for ensuring their groups and participants adhere to all governing body sport regulations and policies (e.g., Hockey Canada, Ontario Hockey Federation, Skate Ontario etc.).  

11. All permit holders must ensure that groups of participants and spectators adhere to all Arena Guidelines and Facility Code of Conduct.  

Peterborough Public Health has Announced Influenza Vaccine Clinics in Time for Flu Season

Peterborough Public Health announced on Monday it is holding several free influenza immunization clinics in the coming months targeted to groups who otherwise can not access the flu shot.

File Photo.

“While the flu shot is widely available for most residents through pharmacies and their healthcare provider, we recognize this isn’t the case for everyone and are pleased to offer these dedicated clinics to make flu vaccinations as accessible as possible,” said Patti Fitzgerald, Manager, Infectious Diseases Program. “Getting the flu shot is the best way to prevent you and your loved ones from feeling ill. The flu season can be unpredictable, and it remains important to keep people feeling well and out of hospitals.”

Fitzgerald noted that young children, pregnant women, and seniors are particularly at risk of complications from the flu.

A series of flu shot clinics are also taking place exclusively for families with children under two years old who do not have a healthcare provider (pharmacies do not vaccinate children under two years). Appointments can be booked by calling 705-743-1000, ext. 507, and all clinics take place at Peterborough Public Health on 185 King St. in downtown Peterborough. Booking will open up approximately three weeks before each clinic date:

Thursday, November 18, 2021 from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Thursday, December 16, 2021 from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Thursday, January 13, 2022 from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

On Monday, November 15, 2021 from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Public Health Nurses will be in Millbrook to provide flu vaccine to all area residents. The appointment-only clinic is taking place in the Community Hall in the Cavan Monaghan Community Centre, 986 County Road 10 in Millbrook. Due to COVID-19 precautions, appointments are required and can be booked in advance by calling 705-743-1000, ext. 507. There will not be a walk-in option this year.

In addition to getting the flu shot, following current COVID-19 precautions can help prevent the spread of the flu:

• Stay home if feeling unwell

• Wash your hands frequently

• Clean and sanitize commonly-used surfaces frequently

• Cough or sneeze into your sleeve or tissue and washing hands afterwards

• Remain 2 metres distance from those outside of your household

• Wear a face covering

For more information, please visit www.peterboroughpublichealth.ca.

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for PTBOBuzz newsletter here.

Ontario Government Releases Plan For Province's Safe Reopening

The Ontario Government plans to lift all COVID-19 public health measures including mask mandates by the end of March announced at a press conference in Queen’s Park in Toronto on Friday.

Screenshot.

Due to Ontario’s cautious and careful approach with COVID-19, the province is poised to gradually lift all restrictions over the coming months according to Doug Ford, Ontario Premier.

Roughly 88 per cent of eligible Ontarians have at least one vaccine dose.

Beginning Monday, the Ontario Government will increase capacity limits and distancing requirements for restaurants, bars, gyms, casinos, indoor meeting and event spaces.

Other settings are permitted to lift capacity limits if they opt-in to require proof of vaccination such as barbershops; salons; indoor areas of amusement parks, galleries and museums.

Passports will not be required for places of medical care, grocery stores or basic medical supplies.

If COVID-19 levels no longer become a concern, vaccination passports could be lifted early next year.

To see the government's long-term plan click here.

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for PTBOBuzz newsletter here.

Ontario Invests Millions In Staff For Long-Term Care Homes

The Ontario Government will provide up to $270 million this year to long-term care homes across the province to increase staffing levels, leading to more direct care for residents announced by MPP Dave Smith at Fairhaven Home on Wednesday.

(left to right) MPP Dave Smith; Mary Anne Greco, Riverview Manor Administrator; Carol Rodd, CEO St Joseph’s at Fleming; Dawn Baldwin, Extendicare administrator and Lionel Towns, Fairhaven Executive Director. Each member made speeches regarding the government funding for more healthcare staff. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

This includes $3,120,446 for long-term care homes in Peterborough-Kawartha this year. By 2024, the total average increase of permanent annualized funding for long-term care homes in Peterborough-Kawartha will be $18,043,200 more than what they would receive.

This is part of the province’s commitment to ensure long-term care residents receive — on average — four hours of direct care per day by 2024-25.

It was also announced that as part of the government’s plan to fix long-term care, it will bring forward legislation that will enshrine its commitment to four hours of care into law.

“For too long, governments of all stripes have neglected and underfunded our long-term care system. We have now seen all too painfully the results of that inaction,” said Smith. “Today, that changes. $18,043,200 more in annual funding will hire thousands of new nurses, personal support workers, attendants and physiotherapists for homes across our community. Our seniors will see four hours of direct care every day by our hardworking health care professionals.”

These funds will increase care for residents at: 

• Extendicare Inc., in Lakefield, will receive up to $356,212 for additional staffing this year to increase the hours of direct care for residents. By the year 2024-2025, the home will receive $2,181,756 annually more than their current funding.  Extendicare Inc., in Peterborough, will receive up to $619,816 for additional staffing this year to increase the hours of direct care for residents. By the year 2024-2025, the home will receive $3,796,272 annually more than their current funding. 

• Fairhaven, in Peterborough, will receive up to $911,908 for additional staffing this year to increase the hours of direct care for residents. By the year 2024-2025, the home will receive $5,585,316 annually more than their current funding. 

• Riverview Manor Nursing Home, in Peterborough, will receive up to $345,530 for additional staffing this year to increase the hours of direct care for residents. By the year 2024-2025, the home will receive $2,116,320 annually more than their current funding. 

• St. Joseph’s at Fleming, in Peterborough, will receive up to $712,434 for additional staffing this year to increase the hours of direct care for residents. By the year 2024-2025, the home will receive $4,363,536 annually more than their current funding.

“We know that more qualified staff means more daily care for residents,” said Rod Phillips, Minister of Long-Term Care. “Hiring more staff is part of our government’s plan to fix long-term care and to improve the quality of care residents receive and the quality of life they experience.”

“This historic commitment of funding will have transformative effects on the care provided in Homes, and on the working conditions of our direct care staff,” said Lionel Towns, Executive Director of Fairhaven Long-Term Care Home.

“Our residents, their families, and our entire care team are pleased with the Ontario Government’s commitment to increase funding for Long Term Care. This funding will support a staffing model that will allow an increase in direct care time for each of our residents,” said Carol Rodd, CEO of St. Joseph’s at Fleming.

“Extendicare applauds the Ontario government for taking action on the long-standing staffing challenges that the long-term care sector has been confronting for many years,” said Dawn Baldwin, Administrator at Extendicare Lakefield. “Residents’ care needs have become increasingly complex, and this path to continued funding increases will make a real difference in delivery of safe, quality care for those we serve.”

“OMNI Health Care-Riverview Manor is thankful for the Government’s significant announcement of a $345,530 enhancement to our nursing & personal care funding for the remainder of 2021, and additional funding of $2,116,320 annually by 2024-2025. All of the funding is to be spent directly on nursing, personal care and programs, with any surplus returned to government,” said Mary Anne Greco, Administrator of Riverview Manor Nursing Home.

Residents receive an average of two hours and 45 minutes of direct care from nurses and personal support workers. This funding will increase the daily average to three hours, per resident per day by the end of this fiscal year. This funding also includes $42.8M to homes to increase care by allied health care professionals (such as physiotherapists and social workers) by 10 per cent this year.

The government is investing $4.9 billion over four years to boost direct resident care to an average of four hours daily by increasing care staff by more than 27,000 people. Hiring thousands of new staff at long-term homes and increasing the amount of care they deliver each year will be made possible by annual funding increases to homes: 

• $270 million in 2021-22 

• $673 million in 2022-23 

• $1.25 billion in 2023-24 

• $1.82 billion in 2024-25

Ontario Premier Doug Ford and his government introduced and had Bill 124 passed in 2019. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

During the announcements, several healthcare workers — mostly from St. Joseph’s — were present to support Rodd. They voiced their opinions to Smith after the media conference concerning Bill 124 if he would support the repeal.

The Bill caps wage increases to a maximum of one per cent total compensation for three years to healthcare workers.

"We just have to keep pushing forward,” said Rodd. “I think the government is doing the right things, right now. I think they are making the right moves. Giving more money to our sector is a big help. We can't thank our healthcare workers enough.”

Smith remarked that the announcements today have nothing to do Bill 124 and are focused on “increasing the amount of care for seniors.” He spoke with the concerned healthcare workers after the proceedings.

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for PTBOBuzz newsletter here.

What You Need to Know About the Newly Launched Enhanced Vaccine Certificate

The Ontario government has officially launched its COVID-19 verification app and QR code system.

As of Monday every citizen of Ontario is eligible to download an enhanced vaccine certificate, people can choose to print a QR code, or store it on their phone.

Businesses are required to continue to accept older versions of the vaccine passport, though those are no longer available to download.

What is a QR code?

QR stands for ‘quick response’ it is a barcode that is completely unique and when scanned can redirect the scanner to a URL.

When the enhanced vaccine certificate is scanned one of three images will appear.

A green checkmark verifies that that individual is fully vaccinated.

A red ‘X’ indicates that individual does not have two doses or it has not been 14 days since their second dose.

A yellow image means the QR code could not be scanned, or the QR code has come from a third party user that is not supported by the app.

To access the enhanced vaccine certificate individuals need:

• a green photo health (OHIP) card (individuals will need numbers on both sides of the card, expired cards will be accepted)

• a modern web browser (the website is not compatible with Internet Explorer 11 or earlier).

Visit covid-19.ontario.ca/get-proof/ to download the QR code.

The enhanced certificate will only provide essential information, it will not show health card numbers. People will need to show a piece of I.D when providing their QR code.

How will this new system work for businesses?

Verify Ontario is a free QR code scanner for businesses that can be used to scan QR codes on the enhanced vaccine certificates. The app can't store any personal information.

Businesses and organizations can download the free app from the Apple app and Google Play stores. It is available in French and English.

It can be used without an internet connection and can scan both digital and printed versions of the enhanced vaccine certificates.

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for PTBOBuzz newsletter here.

PRHC Foundation President & CEO Receives Prestigious Fellow of the Association for Healthcare Philanthropy Designation

The Peterborough Regional Health Centre (PRHC) Foundation announced on Thursday that President and CEO Lesley Heighway has been awarded the designation of Fellow of the Association for Healthcare Philanthropy in recognition of her fundraising leadership on behalf of Peterborough Regional Health Centre.

Photo courtesy of PRHC Foundation.

The Association for Healthcare Philanthropy (AHP) is an international professional organization dedicated to healthcare philanthropy. The Fellow of the Association for Healthcare Philanthropy (FAHP) is a designation bestowed on AHP members who have made significant contributions to the profession.

Candidates must meet rigorous criteria including career success that has had a transformative effect on the organizations they’ve supported, demonstrated leadership, mentorship and community service and a comprehensive knowledge of healthcare governance and philanthropy.

Of AHP's 4,500 members at more than 2,200 healthcare facilities around the world, only 2 per cent of AHP members have received the FAHP designation, with Heighway one of three selected in 2021.

“In Lesley’s ten years as President & CEO, she’s worked tirelessly with donors from across the region to fund the equipment and technology that form the foundation of world-class care at Peterborough Regional Health Centre,” said Linda Skilton, chair, PRHC Foundation Board of Directors. “Her success is fueled by a passion for healthcare that has inspired $30 million in donations in the past five years alone.”

Dr. Peter McLaughlin, PRHC President & CEO, has worked closely with Lesley during her tenure at the Foundation and says she is a trusted leader, recognized by the sector and community as an authority on best practices in philanthropy.

“Lesley is highly-regarded by the Foundation and PRHC boards, hospital staff and leadership, and our donors,” said McLaughlin. “Her record of fundraising success and the impact our Foundation's donors have had and continue to have on patient care at PRHC speak volumes about her performance, integrity and professionalism.”

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for PTBOBuzz newsletter here.