Community Update – December 23, 2021

Situation Report

Thursday, December 23, 2021

Vitalité Health Network is providing this situation report in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic and the current challenges facing the health care system. This report will be updated as needed, as the situation changes.

Service levels

As is the case every year, the Network is proceeding with a service slowdown during the holidays. This measure gives our health care workers a little break. Patients with an appointment during this period must report at their scheduled date and time, unless advised otherwise.

Together we can do it

Against the backdrop of the ongoing pandemic, the Network's dedicated health care workers are continuing to keep our health care system operating to the best of their abilities and with professionalism. We acknowledge that we are sometimes unable to provide everyone with care as quickly as they would like. This is why we ask you to remain patient as we give our sickest and most vulnerable patients the priority.

It is very important for patients and their loved ones to continue being kind in their interactions with our health care workers. It's by being kind with each other and supporting each other that we will get through these challenging times.

Ban on visits remains in effect

With the number of new COVID-19 cases remaining high in the province and with the risks posed by the Omicron variant, we are being particularly careful.

The Network will maintain a high alert level throughout the holidays and will continue applying strict prevention measures to avoid COVID-19 transmission in our points of service. The ban on visits remains in effect in all our hospitals. Exceptions apply for patients entitled to have a designated support person, as explained on the Network's website.

The Network recognizes that these restrictions are difficult for patients and families, especially during the holidays. These restrictions have been instituted to protect patients and health care workers. Whenever possible, the Network encourages people to use technology to stay in touch with their hospitalized loved ones.

Vaccination clinics

At the Network, we will be continuing our vaccination efforts during the holidays and are encouraging people to get fully vaccinated against COVID-19 or, for those who are eligible, to get their booster. The schedule and location of our vaccination clinics are posted on the Network's Facebook page and updated regularly.

Testing clinics and rapid-test kits

To prevent new outbreaks, the Network is encouraging the public to get tested for COVID-19.

• With symptoms: Register for a lab test by completing the government's online form or calling Tele-Care 811.
• Without symptoms: Get a rapid-test kit from one of the Network's rapid-test kit pick-up locations.

Note that if your rapid test result is positive, you must self-isolate and register online on the government's website or call 811 for a lab test. Rapid tests are simply a snapshot of your state of health at the time of testing.

Statistics

(As of December 23, 2021)

For up-to-date information, please visit the Network's website or follow us on our social media platforms.

Thank you for your cooperation with our various measures, which are necessary to protect the safety of our patients, staff, physicians and communities.