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Changes to protect seniors receiving care

Northern Health
Information Bulletin

To protect those most vulnerable and to address anticipated pressures on the acute care system, due to COVID-19, the Ministry of Health advises health authorities to:

  • Temporarily suspend interfacility transfers, except in circumstances of intolerable risk, until further notice and ensure clients’ place on the wait list for transfer is maintained during the suspension of transfers;
  • Prioritize admissions to Long Term Care from acute care over those from community where possible;
  • Temporarily suspend all health authority operated/funded Home & Community Care (HCC) adult day programs and;
  • Temporarily suspend the provision of in-facility respite, except in circumstances of intolerable risk.

Northern Health is implementing these measures at long-term care facilities across the region, and for NH-funded adult day programs. Resident and family questions or concerns should be addressed to the appropriate facility manager.

Most people who become infected with COVID-19 will experience a mild illness that will not require medical care, but seniors are at a higher risk of serious illness.

We also want to reduce visits to long-term care homes and only essential visits are recommended. This includes visits for compassionate care (end of life and critical illness) and visits considered essential to resident care and well-being.

For the latest COVID-19 information visit the BC Centre for Disease Control website.

Media Contact: NH media line – 250-961-7724

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