THUNDER BAY – Effective immediately, St. Joseph’s Care Group (SJCG) will not permit in-person visitors at Hogarth Riverview Manor, Bethammi Nursing Home, and St. Joseph’s Hospital. “In accordance with Ontario’s Chief Medical Officer of Health recommendations and, as importantly, in consideration of the ongoing safety and well being of our clients, we are stopping visitation at our long-term care homes and St. Joseph’s Hospital,” said Tracy Buckler, SJCG President & CEO.
Last week, SJCG implemented mandatory screening and visitor restrictions for the duration of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic at all sites to help keep clients, patients, residents, and staff safe and well.
Since that time, there have been rapid and numerous developments in terms of containment of COVID-19.
Buckler notes that exceptions may be made for clients approaching the end of their lives.
“Acting with compassion is even more important during difficult times, and we need to balance the safety of all with giving our clients the time they need with their families during the end stage of life,” says Buckler. “These unprecedented times require the collective support of families, the public, clients and staff, with the hope that this global pandemic will be contained and that we will be able to return to business as usual.” For the limited number of visitors that will be permitted, screening remains in place at SJCG sites across Thunder Bay.
For the information of those who may attend SJCG sites on an outpatient basis, it is important to note that program closures can change without prior notice as the COVID-19 pandemic evolves.
We thank you for your continued patience and understanding.
