Message from the President – December 3, 2020
Dear Friends,
Winter has come early with several snowfalls in the city these last few weeks. I am also just getting use to the shorter amount of daylight, which is a sign that the holiday season will soon be here, albeit a different sort of holiday for all of us.
We are all aware that there is increased community spread of COVID-19 and the GTA has been deemed a red zone and is now in lock-down. As a result, the Foundation office is once again working remotely to reduce our footprint in the Hospital. We will re-assess the situation early in the new year, and keep you posted. Some staff are going into the office to tend to our donation processing, finances and other urgent matters, but for the most part, we are working virtually.
Wearing masks, social distancing and limiting contact to only those inside your own home remains key for all of us during this second phase of the pandemic. I have been reading the positive news about vaccines and remain hopeful that Canada will get a good amount to protect all of us, but particularly the most vulnerable, early in the new year.
House Calls – 4th Edition
Our next House Calls is on Wednesday December 16th from 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. and its theme is: Virtually Yours in a COVID-19 World. Three of the Hospital’s esteemed physicians will address “Is virtual care her to stay?” and talk about how North York General has pivoted to virtual care from birth to seniors’ care and everything in between. There will be a question and answer period and I encourage you to register and Zoom in. Register here.
We Need More Space Campaign
We recently launched our We Need More Space Campaign which is an effort to raise funds to expand the Charlotte & Lewis Steinberg Emergency in two key areas. Our ambulatory area, which is literally bursting at its seams due to increased patient volumes, and the creation of a new Mental Health Emergency Services Unit, due to an increased community demand for mental health crisis support at the Hospital. Click here to learn more. This is an exciting next phase in the expansion of our Emergency Department. Click here to donate.
North York General Strong Merchandise
Just in time for the holiday season, we have introduced a line of ❤️North York Strong branded clothing. The perfect gift for the holiday season or great comfortable wear for working from home or just hanging out. Order soon to get them in time for gift giving and show your support for North York General health care workers who are making a world of difference in your community. Click here to purchase.
COVID – 19 Hospital Update
North York General has administered over 139,000 COVID-19 tests to date. Please note the below updates related to our COVID-19 Assessment Centres:
North York General Hospital now offers testing by appointment only and is only available for those who have symptoms or meet other guidelines.
Branson Site
555 Finch Ave. (North Entrance immediately after Finch)
8:00 a.m.-7:00 p.m.
North York General has gone to extensive efforts to make sure the hospital is safe for patients and staff. If you require emergency services, please don’t hesitate to come to the hospital. You must wear a mask and respect the rules detailed upon arrival. We absolutely want you to come and see us when you need medical care.
I will end by wishing everyone stays vigilant and well. These are challenging times for all of us. COVID-19 is still present and the health and safety of our families, friends, co-workers and community remains paramount.
With my best to you and yours, and #stay safe
Terry Pursell
President & CEO
NYGHTacklesCOVID19.ca
P.S. As always, if you are interested in learning more about COVID-19-related issues, please go to the hospital’s website at https://nygh.on.ca/patients-and-visitors/covid-19-updates/assessment-centres .
