November 12, 2021
Dear Health & Transition Services Families,
I hope you are all well and have some supports to help shove out after this snowstorm, as it looks like winter is here!
All is well here at Health & Transition Services. I’ve been back working with St.Amant for three months now and it’s been wonderful connecting with the people we support and learning more about the programs and services here at H&TS. It has been a busy three months! I want to thank you for your support and understanding as we continue to bend and flex during these Covid times.
There have been a lot of changes recently regarding employee vaccination requirements, opportunities for flu shots, and third dose vaccinations. I can assure you our efforts to stay vigilant in our cleaning protocols, monitoring our PPE practices, and any staff presenting with symptoms are occurring to reduce our risk for any Covid exposure during this fourth wave. We are continuing with best practices and public health orders with the intention of keeping our building, staff, and most importantly, the people we support safe.
I am pleased to announce that Michael Friesen begins his role of Manager, Adult Health Services on Monday, November 15. Michael has an extensive history in health care management and front line nursing. He’s worked within the Winnipeg Regional Health Authority and private sectors of health care, most recently as Director of Health Services at Brightwater Senior Living here in Winnipeg. He is excited to be making this move to St.Amant and working with staff and families in providing excellent care.
This week, the province expanded the eligibility for the third/booster dose of the COVID-19 vaccine to include all Manitobans who are 18 and older. Some individuals age 65+ and those of indigenous background have already received their third dose. We will begin planning next week for those who are now eligible and six months has passed since their second dose. Some members of our pharmacy or service areas teams will be connecting with those families who have not yet consented at this time.
Additionally, you will have received communication recently about updated requirements for all visitors and specifically Designated Family Caregivers (DFCs) to show proof of vaccination (vaccination cards or QR codes) when presenting to H&TS. Just a reminder that this information is not logged or recorded anywhere and so the vaccination card or QR code must be presented along with ID each time. Visitation suites and or the visitation shelter/pod are available and can be booked by calling our front reception desk and they will direct you to the staff person who will reserve the space for you.
Please feel free to reach out to me if you have questions about the programs and services here at Health & Transition Services
Enjoy your weekend,
Jennifer Busch, Senior Manager
Health & Transition Services