Report from Susan Fraser Chair, Board of Directors January, 2014

On December 13, Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre (TBRHSC) came off of Gridlock for the first time since November 4. Gridlock was called on again on December 17. Gridlock occurs when there are more patients admitted than there are available beds. TBRHSC implemented various measures to improve patient flow by implementing a Medical Short Stay Unit; a Nurse-Led Outreach Team; and enhanced Telehomecare for illnesses such as COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease).

I take this opportunity to extend appreciation on behalf of the Board of Directors to the TBRHSC staff, professional staff and volunteers for their unwavering professionalism and dedication. Despite the strain of Gridlock, patients continued to receive quality acute care.

I also thank our community partners in healthcare for their commitment to patients and families. Their constant efforts alleviate the pressures at TBRHSC. For example, the Ontario Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care’s Home First Philosophy has contributed significantly to addressing Alternate Level of Care (ALC) pressures. Since the philosophy was implemented in fall 2010, more patients are discharged home and fewer patients to Long-Term Care, making more spaces available at TBRHSC for acute care patients.

We anticipate that ALC and overcapacity challenges will continue in 2014, and thank our patients and families for their patience and understanding as we work with our partners in healthcare towards a long-term solution.

As the new year begins, I reflect on the holiday season that has just passed. I am grateful to those who considered the needs of others this time of year. I am truly touched by the generosity of the hundreds of compassionate individuals who donate to the Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Foundation to support quality acute care at TBRHSC. This Christmas, donations focused on providing world-class cancer care close to home, a gift that will be felt by patients and families throughout the year.

I am also proud of the many TBRHSC employees, professional staff and volunteers who contributed to the quality of life in our region. Over the holiday season, the TBRHSC community participated in several food and clothing drives to support those less fortunate. The acts of kindness are both meaningful and moving.

2014 will provide new opportunities to care for our community. As we continue to implement our Strategic Plan, we know we will continue to build on successes in all four of our strategic pillars: Aboriginal Health, Chronic Disease Prevention & Management, Comprehensive Clinical Services, and Mental Health & Addictions. I look forward to another year of growth as an Academic Health Sciences Centre.

Respectfully,

Susan Fraser

TBRHSC Board Chair