(Today’s Northumberland file photo)
Northumberland County has reached an important milestone in plans to open the new Golden Plough Lodge long-term care home, with inspectors from the Ministry of Long-Term Care completing a week-long, in-person inspection of the facility. This inspection, which took place April 20-24, marks an important step in the Ministry’s licensing and approvals process for operation of a new home.
“County staff and project partners worked closely with Ministry officials throughout the week to support the inspection process and provide access to all areas of the home,” states GPL Administrator Alanna Clark. “This visit is part of our continued engagement with Ministry staff, including a recent virtual tour by officials, to ensure the highest standards of safety and quality for residents.”
The inspection included assessment of resident home areas, building and safety systems, infection prevention and control measures, staffing readiness, as well as a comprehensive review of required policies and procedures under the Fixing Long-Term Care Act, 2021.
The County is currently awaiting the Ministry’s formal report and detailed recommendations, anticipated within the next week. In the meantime, teams have begun working on initial actions identified to advance operational readiness, including installation of additional handrails and call bells, adjustments to lighting, and modifications to workflows and policies for the new environment.
Once received, the project team will review the report and develop an action plan to address any outstanding requirements to meet Ministry specifications and compliance standards. The County’s report back to the Ministry in early June will specify remaining timelines for any final work to be completed. More information about timelines for resident move-in will be shared at that time.
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
