Campbellford Memorial Hospital Set to Install New CT Scanner

Campbellford Memorial Hospital (CMH) is installing a new CT Scanner over the coming weeks, replacing the current one at 13 years old. 

A shot of the current CT scanner that has lasted 13 years in the hospital. Photo courtesy of Campbellford Memorial Hospital.

The new device will be more reliable and provide cleaner imaging, allowing physicians to make more efficient diagnoses, according to a press release. 

The CT Scanner is a powerful imaging device that allows CMH physicians to diagnose and treat various conditions without the need to send patients to a larger hospital. 

“It really was a game changer when we installed the current CT Scanner 13 years ago,” said Colleen Smith, diagnostic imaging manager. “You typically don’t see this type of equipment in smaller hospitals and it allows us to provide a level of care to our patients often not seen in communities of our size.”

The replacement was possible after $1.4 million was raised from the CMH Foundation.

“It never ceases to amaze me how much support our community shows the hospital,” said Martha Hunt, CMH Foundation chair. “2023 was a record-breaking year for community support of the hospital. We have raised just over 90 per cent of our fundraising goal,but with a last push are confident we will hit our target.” 

Work on replacing the new CT Scanner has already begun and is expected to be completed in early April.

The hospital says CT Scans will not be available at CMH during this time. They have put an extended CT Scan downtime procedure in place and arrangements with both Peterborough Regional Health Centre and Northumberland Hills Hospital have been made to ensure that patients requiring an urgent CT Scan can get one at one of those facilities.

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Those Without a Family Doctor Can Visit Peterborough Family Health Team For Acute or Problem-Specific Needs

The Peterborough Family Health Team (FHT) has expanded services at their PFHT Health Clinic. Peterborough City and County residents without a primary care provider can now see a family doctor or nurse practitioner in person for acute and problem-specific needs, announced on Wednesday.

Photo courtesy of FHT.

The clinic has two locations at King Street in Peterborough and Strickland Street in Lakefield, increasing the number of available appointments. Residents can now book an appointment on the same day they call or the following day. Unattached patients who have already visited the clinic at least once can now request an appointment to renew their prescriptions through online booking.

Additionally, on March 14 and 21, the PFHT Health Clinic will hold the ‘Don’t Be Late, Cancer Won’t Wait’ screening day for unattached patients who have a cervix and are due for a Pap Test. These screenings are one of the many functions in family medicine and why all Ontarians need to have a primary care provider according to Duff Sprague, FHT CEO.

“We knew action must be taken to support the alarming number of unattached patients in this community,” he said. “While we wait for the Ministry of Health to recognize the seriousness of the crisis in family medicine and primary care, we are using our limited resources to operate the PFHT Health Clinic. This is an interim solution. We are committed to the many thousands of area residents and will do all we can to support their access to high-quality, in-person care by a family doctor or nurse practitioner.”

Despite the positive additions, the recent investments in primary healthcare do not come close to ensuring that every Ontarian has access to family medicine and primary care teams said Sprague.

“Not only is the number of physicians opening a family practice unable to fill the gaps made by those retiring or leaving a practice but add to that the four-year wage freeze in primary care teams that has fewer and fewer other clinicians choosing primary care,” he said. “We are very fortunate to have many clinicians who stay in primary care despite the compensation inequities but without action, there will come a time when even the most passionate will leave primary care.”

The types of non-urgent health concerns that can be addressed at the clinic include:

• Sore throat/ears

• Cancer screening

• Prescription renewals

• Women’s health/contraceptive counselling

• Growth & development concerns

• New sprains/strains

• Chronic disease check-in

• And more

To book an appointment at the PFHT Health Clinic, those without a primary care provider must call 705-651-4866. For details about this clinic or to renew a prescription, visit online.

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New Chief Announced For Peterborough County-City Paramedics

Patricia Bromfield has been appointed as the new Chief of Paramedics for Peterborough County-City Paramedics (PCCP), taking over Randy Mellow, whose tenure finishes at the end of the year, the county announced on Wednesday.

Photo courtesy of Peterborough County.

Bromfield assumed the Deputy Chief of Operations role at Peterborough County in the fall of 2022. Before her tenure with the County, she served as the Deputy Chief of Operations at the City of Kawartha Lakes and had a substantial paramedic career with the City of Toronto.

Mellow will provide mentorship and guidance throughout 2024 to Bromfield as she takes on her new role and responsibilities.

"I would like to congratulate Patricia Bromfield and welcome her to the role of Paramedic Chief,” said Mellow. “Patricia possesses a wealth of experience and knowledge having progressed through various frontline and leadership roles throughout her career. Her experience and passion for supportive leadership and innovation will be an asset to our team and community.”

“I am honoured to be following in the footsteps of our decorated Chief of Paramedics, Randy Mellow, as he embarks on his retirement at the close of 2024,” said Bromfield. “I am forever grateful to have the opportunity to learn from an industry leader who has played a key role in advancing the Paramedic profession. I look forward to collaborating with Peterborough County's robust leadership team and our partners in the coming years.”

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Peterborough Regional Health Centre Unveil Anne Keenleyside & Family Atrium After $2 Million Donation

Peterborough Regional Health Centre (PRHC) has unveiled the Anne Keenleyside & Family Atrium today in honour of a $2 million legacy gift to the Peterborough Regional Health Centre Foundation on Monday afternoon.

Photo courtesy of the PRHC.

The gift was made through Dr. Anne Keenleyside's estate, a Trent University professor of bioarchaeology who passed away in October of 2022 due to cancer. Lesley Heighway, PRHC Foundation president and CEO says the bequest has been invested in equipment and technology that support cancer care innovation, following Keenleyside’s request.

“Anne was clear she wanted her gift to connect her passion for scientific innovation with her desire to help the patients who would come after her. “Her generosity has allowed the PRHC Foundation to fund a second MRI for PRHC’s Diagnostic Imaging Department, as well as fully upgrading a general operating suite with state-of-the-art minimally invasive surgical tools – one of four undertaken by the Foundation,” she said. “By directing her bequest to the MRI and our minimally invasive surgical suites, her gift is already helping our hospital increase capacity and image quality for diagnostic scans and giving our general surgeons access to brand new, leading-edge tools to perform cancer surgeries.”

“Thanks to Anne’s investment, we’ve been able to increase our capacity, performing an additional 6,000 scans since the new unit became operational.” said Dr. Lynn Mikula, PRHC President and CEO. “Not only is this helping us address diagnostic wait times, we’re also able to produce much higher-quality images in less time while providing a significantly improved patient experience.”

Mikula added that the investment in PRHC’s general operating suites empowers the introduction of fluorescence-guided imaging. This process involves injecting contrast dyes or agents into a patient’s bloodstream prior to surgery, making their blood vessels, bile ducts, and lymph nodes light up when combined with fluoroscopy according to a press release.

“The impact of this new technology is significant,” said Mikula. “It’s already allowing our surgeons to operate with increased precision – an advancement that has tremendous implications for the treatment of bowel and other cancers.”

Heighway says the decision to name the atrium in recognition of Keenleyside’s generosity was made in consultation with the hospital and her family. It was a decision that her partner, Pat Butler, says her family and friends are very happy about.

“Anne’s gift to the hospital reflects her generous and thoughtful nature,” said Butler. “She was incredibly grateful for the expert and compassionate care she received at Peterborough Regional Health Centre and wanted to do something after she was gone to help make things better for others like her. This bequest is a gift to both her community and the healthcare professionals who cared for her after her diagnosis over 10 years ago.”

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Campbellford Memorial Hospital Seeking Community Input For New Strategic Plan

Campbellford Memorial Hospital (CMH) is seeking input from community members as it works towards creating a new strategic plan, announced on Monday.

The hospital was established in 1953. They provide acute care services including a Special Care Unit, Endoscopy Surgical Suite, Diagnostic Imaging Department, Laboratory, numerous Out-Patient Clinics, 24/7 Emergency Department and numerous community programs including Mental Health, GAIN, and Supportive Housing. File photo.

CMH has launched a strategic planning survey to gather diverse perspectives, inviting community members to share their thoughts on the hospital's future direction according to a press release.

This initiative plans to chart a bold course for CMH over the next five to 10 years, aligning with the dynamic shifts in healthcare including technological advancements and evolving care delivery methods.

“With redevelopment plans underway and the transformative impact of new technologies already being seen, this marks an opportune moment to lay the groundwork for CMH's path to 2030 and beyond,” said Jeff Hohenkerk, CEO.

While redevelopment remains a focal point for CMH, underscored by the generous land donation from local farmer Jim Curle, the strategic plan goes beyond the physical infrastructure as stated by Hohenkerk.

“This is not just about a new building,” he said. “It's about envisioning the future of healthcare that our community desires.”

The strategic planning process will also delve into an in-depth demographic analysis to discern evolving healthcare needs, ensuring that CMH is well-positioned to meet the region's demands over the coming decades.

The survey is available online and public members are also encouraged to email info@cmh.ca to share their thoughts on the hospital's future. 

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Peterborough Petes 15th Annual Pink In the Rink Game To Support Wheels of Hope Running This Saturday

In support of Wheels of Hope, the Peterborough Petes' 15th annual Pink in the Rink game is set for Saturday when the Petes host the Niagara IceDogs at the Peterborough Memorial Centre.

Photo courtesy of the Peterborough Petes.

The team is wearing special theme jerseys designed by Kyle McDonald of Pioneer Inc. that highlight the names of nearly 200 people battling cancer and feature a special Canadian Cancer Society shoulder crest.

The funds support the Wheels of Hope transportation program provided by the Canadian Cancer Society (CCS). It connects people to cancer treatments with volunteer drivers and travel cost reimbursements.

All Petes players and coaches will act as ambassadors for the campaign. Family, friends and fans can donate on behalf of a particular player or coach by going online and choosing their name from the dropdown menu on the CCS fundraising website.

Fans can also support the campaign through an in-person silent auction in the North Lobby on game night, a special chuck-a-puck at the second intermission or by purchasing an Official 15th Annual Pink in the Rink t-shirt and/or Anniversary Pin.

Bobcaygeon Brewing Co. has produced a limited edition run of Petes Lager featuring a Pink Can. Each can sold sees 25 cents donated to the Pink in the Rink campaign.

After raising $954,136 over the past 14 years, the Petes announced that this year’s fundraising goal is $50,000. If achieved, the Petes and the Peterborough community will hit $1,000,000 raised in the fight against cancer in Pink in the Rink’s history. 

Official game jerseys are available at the Pink in the Rink live post-game auction. Fans are asked to move to the Gibson’s Finest Club Section immediately following the game to participate in the auction. A game ticket is required to take part in the game-worn jersey auction. 

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Six Fleming College Paramedic Students Take An Icy Dip For Campbellford Memorial Hospital

Six Fleming College Paramedic students are taking the plunge to benefit Campbellford Memorial Hospital’s campaign to buy a new CT scanner, announced on Friday.

Fleming’s plunge from last year. Photo courtesy of Fleming College.

The Medic Mavericks team consists of Fleming students Danielle Blavert, Theo Guenther, Keyanna O’Rourke, Emily Escott, Maddie Mason-Gaynor, and Taiya Martin.

A goal of $1,000 is set to help the hospital’s cause.

The students will be dressed in their paramedic uniforms and will brave Trent River’s frigid temperatures on Saturday at noon. They will jumpfrom the shoreline at Lion’s Club Park in Campbellford. 

Donors can go online to give to the Medic Maverick’s campaign.

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Peterborough Public Health to Cease Sewage Permit and Inspection Program In Mid-November

Peterborough Public Health (PPH) is no longer overseeing the permitting and inspection process for onsite sewage systems in the City and County of Peterborough after Nov. 17.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The delivery of these services in the region as responsibility for permitting and inspections is transferred to local municipalities after the deadline.   

“Peterborough Public Health has provided these building inspection services related to onsite sewage systems for over forty years, but we are now only one of eleven public health units offering this service,” said Julie Bromley, Chief Building Official and PPH manager of environmental health.

“This decision by the Board of Health was challenging, given the long-standing positive relationships with residents served by this program and the dedicated work of our staff in this area,” said Kathryn Wilson, board of health chair councillor. “The transfer supports a one-stop-shop for residents and builders at municipal building departments and allows Peterborough Public Health to focus on our core work, as mandated by the Ontario Public Health Standards in a period of inadequate provincial funding for our core work.” 

PPH says they are working closely with all municipalities that will return to delivery of this service to ensure a smooth transition for building departments and minimize disruptions to residents and industry experts. The transition will occur over two phases.   

Phase 1: Effective April 1, the following municipalities will receive all new applications and activities related to onsite sewage systems: 

• Township of Cavan Monaghan 

• Township of Otonabee-South Monaghan 

• Township of Selwyn 

• Municipality of Trent Lakes 

Phase 2: Effective Nov. 18, the following municipalities will receive all new applications and activities related to onsite sewage systems:

• Township of Asphodel-Norwood 

• Township of Havelock-Belmont-Methuen 

• City of Peterborough 

The Townships of North Kawartha and Douro-Dummer already oversee activities related to sewage systems so no changes are made for those municipalities.

Residents with open applications or permits with PPH will be contacted with further information and direction on closing their applications.

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New Consultant Pediatrician Joining Five Counties Children’s Centre

Dr. Sean Godfrey is joining Five Counties Children’s Centre (FCCC) as a consulting pediatrician starting this month.

Five Counties Children’s Centre provides speech, physio and occupational therapies, as well as other treatment services for kids and youth from birth to age 19 years. This past year, Five Counties served more than 6,200 children and youth in its region – the highest number of clients in its nearly 50-year history. Photo courtesy of FCCC.

Godfrey has over 25 years of experience in hospital and community settings. He is splitting time supporting kids and clients at Five Counties sites in Peterborough, Lindsay and Cobourg while seeing other children, youth and their families from across the region at his new private medical practice he is setting up at Five Counties in Peterborough.

“Dr. Godfrey is a well-respected and highly regarded consultant pediatrician who will enhance the specialized care available to our youngest citizens,” says Scott Pepin, FCCC CEO. “The partnership will directly benefit Five Counties kids and clients but also support other families from Peterborough, City of Kawartha Lakes, Haliburton County and Northumberland County whom Dr. Godfrey will see on a referral basis through his own pediatric practice.”

From 1999 to 201, Godfrey was a staff pediatrician at Lakeridge Health in Oshawa. Between 2008 and 2014, he also served as the hospital’s chief of pediatrics. For over 20 years, Godfrey has been director of KinderClinic, a children’s urgent care clinic he founded based in Whitby and Simcoe.

“Five Counties Children’s Centre has a wonderful reputation for what it does for families in this region, and I look forward to contributing to that success,” said Godfrey. “Over my career, I’ve been fortunate to have a private practice within a community setting that allows me independence and a chance to establish rapport with families. In both situations, it’s a joy to see children flourish and grow to reach their full potential.”

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Herod Financial Services Donates $25,000 to CMHA HKPR’s Journeying Together Program

The Canadian Mental Health Association Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge (CMHA HKPR) has received $25,000 from Herod Financial Services towards the Journeying Together program that supports caregiver mental health.

Over the past nine years, Herod has brought in over $150,000 to CMHA HKPR. File Photo.

It provides education and support to caregivers and family members of individuals with mental health concerns. The program supports approximately 250 individuals annually, helping them learn how to better support their loved ones and themselves, according to a press release.

“We understand that mental health concerns are at an all-time high in our community, and we recognize the heavy burden this has placed on caregivers of loved ones with mental health issues,” said Jack Veitch, CMHA HKPR manager of community engagement and education. “Programs like our 'Journeying Together' program are more necessary now than ever.”

“It is so important for individuals experiencing a mental health concern to have a strong support system,” said Kevan Herod, Herod Financial Services CEO. “Journeying Together helps sustain the people who love and support their family member, friend or loved one who is having challenges. We are so blessed to be able to help the CMHA deliver this important service.”

“The Herods continue to lead the way in supporting the mental health of caregivers in our community,” said Veitch. “Their on-going generous support has been instrumental in the success of the program and has ensured that families are able to receive essential mental health care.“

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