Sault Area Hospital
750 Great Northern Road P6B 0A8 Sault Sainte Marie, ON, Canada

Visitors from Outside of Algoma As the holiday season nears, SAH would like to remind our community that only designated visitors are permitted entry. Effective Tuesday, December 15, 2020, visitors from outside of Algoma or those who have had close contact with someone outside of Algoma will not be permitted to visit. Visiting Policy Highlights:... Each patient will continue to have one designated and one alternate visitor assigned by the care team in conjunction with the patient and family. The care team will establish an appropriate visiting schedule. Please be aware that visitors from outside of Algoma, those who have travelled outside of Algoma or those who have had close contact with an individual from outside of Algoma will not be permitted to visit for 14 days. Exceptions will only be made for compassionate reasons. Visitors with illness symptoms will not be permitted to visit. All visitors must enter through the main lobby for their scheduled visit. Please follow instructions of door screeners and the nursing staff on the units. Visitors are reminded to maintain 2 metres or 6 feet of physical distance with the patient and others at all times. Visitors and patients are not permitted to wander on the unit or leave the unit. Visitors must wear masks at all times while in hospital and must wash their hands when entering and leaving a patient’s room. If you have any questions about visiting your loved one, please contact their nursing unit. We understand this during the holidays; it is particularly difficult to be away from loved ones who are in hospital. As the number of COVID-19 cases across Ontario continues to climb in this second wave of infection, these restrictions are in place for the safety and well-being of all patients, staff and our community. We appreciate the ongoing cooperation of our community, and we thank our patients and their families for their support and understanding. For more information about visiting, please access our Visitor Guide https://www.sah.on.ca/f/COVID-19/Visitor%20Guide%202020.pdf on our website.

We welcome Dr. Stephan Imbeau, Family Physician to our community and hospital. Dr. Imbeau has been practicing family medicine since January 2020 with the Group Health Centre. Born and raised in Elliot Lake, Dr. Imbeau completed his Bachelor of Nursing at Laurentian University in Sudbury and worked as an Emergency nurse at Health Sciences North for a year. He then attended the Northern Ontario School of Medicine (NOSM) at Laurentian and completed his family medicine residency... in Sudbury. I really enjoyed nursing and had begun a Master’s program in nursing before I was accepted into the medicine program at NOSM. During his residency, Dr. Imbeau had the opportunity to complete some of his training at SAH and was very well received by his colleagues. Medicine can be very demanding so peer support is extremely valuable, he says. If I needed support or an answer to a question, I always got it, he adds. Consistently, everyone at SAH was very encouraging and welcoming and I was impressed with the collegiality with nurses, physicians and other health care workers. In his spare time, Dr. Imbeau enjoys hunting, hiking and scuba diving. The City of Sault Ste. Marie is a nice blend of both a rural and urban setting with amenities and the beach at your doorstep. In light of the Pandemic, I haven’t been able to truly explore the City but I look forward to doing that in the future. Welcome Dr. Imbeau!

Thank you to our small group of 13 volunteers who have supported hospital patients and staff during this unprecedented time!

Today we remember the sacrifice of many who have fallen in the service of their country and acknowledge the courage of those who still serve.

#MRTWeek is an annual celebration of the essential role that medical radiation technologists (MRTs) play in the healthcare system. MRTs deliver professional imaging and radiation-related treatment services with a caring touch, allowing patients to fully benefit from the latest in medical diagnostic and treatment technology. We salute our +50 technologists and therapists at SAH who deliver technology with care!

We welcome Dr. Robyn Duffus, Pediatrician, to Sault Ste. Marie and SAH. Originally from Longlac, Ontario, she is accustomed to living in northern Ontario with close proximity to lakes and the great outdoors. Dr. Duffus completed her undergraduate degree in nursing at Queen’s University in Kingston before working in both rural and urban nursing settings. She then completed a Bachelor of Science Physician Assistant degree at the University of Toronto, a program that is delivere...d in collaboration with Northern Ontario School of Medicine (NOSM) and The Michener Institute of Education. She spent a short time working as a Physician Assistant at Cambridge Memorial Hospital before entering NOSM at the Thunder Bay campus where she eventually specialized in Pediatrics. Dr. Duffus completed her residency primarily in Thunder Bay and at the Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario. She also has a keen interest pediatric dermatology. I always wanted to be a physician and I feel that a career in Pediatrics chose me, she says. It was meant to be. I really like caring for children. During her time at NOSM, she completed some core rotations at SAH and enjoyed her time here. Everyone at SAH has been so friendly, welcoming and comforting, says Dr. Duffus. This community is a great fit for me - I grew up on the lake in northern Ontario so it feels like home. In her spare time, Dr. Duffus enjoys mountain biking, cross country skiing, swimming and arts and crafts. I have a creative side and I enjoy beading, knitting and cross stitching. Welcome Dr. Duffus - to our community and the SAH team!

AlgomaOHT Flu Clinic Postponed The AlgomaOHT Flu Clinic currently scheduled to run on Friday, November 13 and Saturday, November 14, at the GFL Memorial Gardens... has been postponed as we have used our first allotment of flu vaccine. Appointment lines will be closed on Tuesday, November 10 and Wednesday, November 11. The AlgomaOHT Flu Clinic Team anticipates offering additional Flu Clinics at the GFL Memorial Gardens upon the confirmation of our next allotment of flu vaccine. Once the next supply is received, we will update the community regarding the scheduling of flu clinics. AlgomaOHT, alongside many groups across the city, have substantially increased access to the flu vaccine this year, and given the unprecedented demand, they are constrained by the supply of vaccine ordered by the Ministry of Health. Individuals wanting to receive a flu vaccine are urged to monitor additional supply via pharmacies, primary care or Algoma Public Health. A limited supply is available for higher-risk populations. AlgomaOHT Flu Clinic organized by the Algoma Ontario Health Team has provided over 2,300 individuals with their annual flu vaccine. The AlgomaOHT Flu Clinic would like to thank the community partners who have supported this vital community initiative.

There are many fun ways to celebrate Halloween this year. In addition to safely trick-or-treating on Halloween night, here are some great ideas to celebrate around the house. https://bit.ly/2T9g7NO

Algoma Ontario Health Team Holds Second Flu Clinic The Algoma Ontario Health Team (AlgomaOHT) will hold their second Community Flu Clinic on Friday, October 30...th and Saturday, October 31st, at GFL Memorial Gardens at 269 Queen Street East. Our first AlgomaOHT Community Flu Clinic was an incredible success with over 800 individuals able to receive their flu vaccine safely, says Dr. Jodie Stewart, CEO of the Algoma District Medical Group and family physician at the Group Health Centre. The community flu clinic came together with the support of several community partners who recognized the need for a different approach to accommodate the demand for the flu shot. We wanted to ensure that we addressed the community’s concern about safe access to their flu vaccine. Our first clinic met these concerns by ensuring the clinic moved well and provided ample space for individuals to follow physical distancing measures, says Dr. Stewart. The AlgomaOHT Flu Clinic has received several inquiries about the availability of the high-dose vaccine. The high-dose vaccine will not be available at the AlgomaOHT Community Flu Clinic. The high dose vaccine has been prioritized for the most vulnerable older adults in our community, including those in hospital and long-term care homes in Algoma,’ says Dr. Stewart. There is currently limited access to the high-dose vaccine in community-based settings. We recommend that all community-dwelling older adults get vaccinated using the standard dose, which is available at the Algoma OHT flu clinic, explains Dr. Stewart. The most important thing is for older adults to be vaccinated, advises Dr. Stewart. Individuals who would like to book a flu clinic appointment may call the AlgomaOHT Flu Clinic at 705-759-7486 between 5 pm 8 pm, the Tuesday or Wednesday before each clinic. Clinics will operate every Friday and Saturday until Saturday, November 14th. Remaining Clinic Dates: 9 am 5 pm, Friday, October 30th and Saturday, October 31st 9 am 5 pm, Friday, November 6th and Saturday, November 7th 9 am 5 pm, Friday, November 13th and Saturday, November 14th AlgomaOHT Flu Clinic has been organized by the Algoma Ontario Health Team. The AlgomaOHT Flu Clinic would like to thank the community partners who have supported this vital community initiative. Learn more at https://www.algomaoht.ca/

Today we begin Canadian Patient Safety Week! The 2020 theme is Virtual Care is New to Us. How patients and members of the public can participate this week: Download Virtual care tips at www.conquersilence.ca... Take the virtual care quiz at www.patientsafetyinstitute.ca/virtualcarequiz Check out the new season of PATIENT podcast at www.patientpodcastcanada.ca Learn more at www.patientsafetyweek.ca #ConquerSilence

This is #RTWeek2020 National Respiratory Therapy Week, which celebrates and recognizes the profession of Respiratory Therapy. This year is the 51st Anniversary of the profession in Canada! There are currently 19 full time/part time Registered Respiratory Therapists (RTs) at SAH, working in the Respiratory Therapy department, Pulmonary Function and the Operating Room. Respiratory Therapy is a licensed profession in Ontario. The College of Respiratory Therapists of Ontario over...sees the profession and ensures all members take part in continuing education and professional development to ensure patient safety. In the hospital setting, RTs work in the ICU, NICU, Operating Room, Emergency Departments, Pulmonary Function and all patient units. They are also seen in other roles such as administration, patient and staff education and infection control. They play a key role in all areas and are responsible for airway management, mechanical ventilation, IV therapy and invasive monitoring. RTs are called for all cardiac arrests, traumas and high risk infant deliveries and are often part of patient air transport teams. They can also specialize to become Anesthesia Assistants, cardiac perfusionists, polysomnographers, Asthma and COPD Educators and specialists in hyperbaric oxygen therapy. Our Respiratory Therapy Department is also a clinical site for Canadore College Respiratory Therapy students. This week, we pause and reflect on the important work of our wonderful RTs at SAH and we thank them for their dedication to patient care and for playing a vital role in our work against #COVID19.

Be safe this Halloween. Here are some great tips to follow to ensure you and your children have a fun and safe Halloween. https://bit.ly/2T9g7NO

Not handing out treats this year because of COVID-19? That's okay! Print a door poster to let trick-or-treaters know to skip your house this year. You can also... turn off the lights and close the curtains. Have a safe Halloween! Find the poster here: https://bit.ly/35poquw

High risk activities to avoid this Halloween.

Trick-or-treating safety tips for Halloween during COVID-19. Don’t go trick-or-treating if you are feeling ill, even if symptoms are minor. Choose costumes ...that allow a non-medical mask to be worn underneath. Make sure you can see and breathe comfortably. Only trick-or-treat with those who live in your household. Carry hand sanitizer and use it after touching touch-points like doorbells or railings. If you can, knock instead of pushing doorbells, or simply yell 'trick-or-treat.' Consider pre-arranged stops/visits to family/friends. Wait until you're home and have washed your hands before handling or eating candy.

Congratulations to our NOSM Preceptor Award recipients - Megan Bernard (Registered Dietitian), Laurie Alfano (Occupational Therapist) and Kayla Palombaro (Speech Language Pathologist). Thank you for providing exceptional experiences to our learners.

Each year, the Northern Ontario School of Medicine (NOSM) invites learners and members of their clinical community to submit nominations for their Preceptor Awards. These awards recognize those who have gone above and beyond in providing exceptional experiences to learners. Congratulations to our SAH team members (left to right): Megan Bernard, Registered Dietitian Commitment to Clinical Education Award - A preceptor who demonstrates commitment towards the clinical educati...on of health science professional learners in the North as evidenced by being a frequent and willing participant, supporter and champion of clinical education. Laurie Alfano, Occupational Therapist - Northern Ambassador Award A preceptor who is recognized for being a strong ambassador for their community, and who creates a welcoming environment for learners of all disciplines. Kayla Palombaro, Speech Language Pathologist - Inter-professional Collaborator Award An individual who is recognized by their peers and learners for being a good collaborator or leader of Inter-professional Learning. Way to go Megan, Laurie and Kayla!

This is #BreastCancerAwarenessMonth and this year marked the 30th anniversary of the Ontario Breast Screening Program (OBSP). The past 30 years have seen a significant decrease in the breast cancer mortality rate among Ontario women. This decrease is due to improved treatments as well as increased participation in breast screening through the OBSP. Did you know that SAH is an Ontario Breast Screening Program (OBSP) site? We encourage you to book your breast screening appointment at SAH by calling (705) 256-4709 or 1(833) 255-6277.

Individuals who would like to book a flu clinic appointment may call the AlgomaOHT Flu Clinic at 705-759-7486 between 5 pm 8 pm, the Tuesday or Wednesday befo...re each clinic. The Clinic will operate on Fridays and Saturdays, from October 23, 2020 November 14, 2020. Friday, October 23 Saturday, October 24 Friday, October 30 Saturday, October 31 Friday, November 6 Saturday, November 7 Friday, November 13 Saturday, November 14

Algoma Ontario Health Team Launches Flu Clinic with Support from Community Partners Beginning Friday, October 23, 2020, the Algoma Ontario Health Team (AlgomaOH...T), in partnership with several community partners, will open a Community Flu Clinic at the GFL Memorial Gardens at 269 Queen Street East. The AlgomaOHT Flu Clinic’s purpose is to provide as many people as we can with access to the flu shot, says Dr. Jodie Stewart, CEO of the Algoma District Medical Group and family physician at the Group Health Centre. The community flu clinic is a new initiative for the AlgomaOHT. The Clinic has been developed to support our community with ease of access to the flu shot, provide support to health care partners who provide flu clinics, and recognize that a new approach was needed to accommodate the demand for the flu shot during these unprecedented times. We know that health care is currently being delivered differently, with virtual physician appointments. We also know that our community is concerned with how they can safely access a flu shot. The AlgomaOHT Flu Clinic has been designed with these concerns in mind, says Stewart. Oversight for the AlgomaOHT Flu Clinic is being provided by the Group Health Centre, who in partnership with GFL Memorial Gardens, the City of Sault Ste. Marie, Sault College, and Algoma Public Health have developed the Flu Clinic with utmost adherence to public safety. Darren Fetterly, Vice President of Clinical Operations - Group Health Centre, explains, The AlgomaOHT Flu Clinic, has been designed with safety first plan. The following measures are in effect; visits will be done by appointment (no walk-ins), all individuals will be pre-screened for illness/exposure to COVID-19, physical distancing, controlled flow, and infection prevention and control measures will be followed, increased environmental cleaning, and medical staff on site. Individuals who would like to book a flu clinic appointment may call the AlgomaOHT Flu Clinic at 705-759-7486 between 5 p.m. 8 p.m., the Tuesday or Wednesday before each clinic. Clinics will operate every Friday and Saturday beginning Friday, October 23 until Saturday, November 14. Individuals will be asked to provide basic information to book their appointment. AlgomaOHT Flu Clinic is a result of proactive and collaborative planning by the AlgomaOHT Leadership Team. Additionally, the AlgomaOHT Flu Clinic would like to thank the community partners who have supported the launch of the first AlgomaOHT Flu Clinic. Algoma Ontario Health Team Flu Clinic dates: The Clinic will operate on Fridays and Saturdays, from October 23, 2020 November 14, 2020. Friday, October 23 Saturday, October 24 Friday, October 30 Saturday, October 31 Friday, November 6 Saturday, November 7 Friday, November 13 Saturday, November 14