As the Omicron Variant continues to spread throughout the community, Campbellford Memorial Hospital (CMH) continues to see sustained patient volumes above 100 percent of the hospital’s bed capacity.
This recent surge has seen hospital capacity reach as high as 140 percent.
In order to provide care for this increased volume of patients, CMH has temporarily converted the day surgery recovery area into acute care beds and plans are in place to convert the ambulatory care clinic to accommodate further acute care patients should the surge in patients continue to grow.
While increasing bed capacity is one challenge, staffing is another, particularity in light of a highly contagious variant that has required many staff to self-isolate. “Our staff have been at this for nearly two years,” remarked CMH Interim President/CEO Eric Hanna.
“They are exhausted and they continue to give it their all day in and day out. Our part-time and casual workers are putting in full-time hours; our full time staff are coming in on their off days, it’s truly been an all hands on deck effort.”
CMH reminds the community that although the worst of Omicron may be over soon, it is still very active in the community and it is important to follow Public Health advice such as washing your hands frequently, wearing a mask, and getting vaccinated. “Although we are seeing fully vaccinated patients presenting with COVID-19,” commented Hanna, “I will note that the vast majority of severe COVID-19 cases that require admission to the hospital are in people who are not vaccinated. That’s why vaccination is so important, not only to protect you and your loved ones, but also to preserve hospital capacity.”
Community members could also expect to see slightly longer than normal wait times in the Emergency Department and those requiring non-urgent care are encouraged to seek out alternative options such as their family doctor, telehealth, or virtual care clinics.
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
