SARNIA & PETROLIA – August 18, 2021 – Announced today, Bluewater Health will require full vaccination or regular asymptomatic testing for all staff, Professional Staff, volunteers, students and contractors effective Tuesday, September 7, 2021. Staff and Professional Staff (e.g. physicians, midwives, etc.) who have not submitted proof of full vaccination must confirm a negative rapid test result in the required timing. Rapid test kits will be provided for those who need them.
“We know the best protection against COVID-19 is to have as many people vaccinated as possible,” said Dr. Mike Haddad, Chief of Staff. “The next best is to prevent those who are not fully vaccinated from transmitting the disease. Asymptomatic rapid testing will allow them to take the appropriate course of action.”
Volunteers have not been on site at the Petrolia or Sarnia hospitals since the onset of the pandemic. Students were temporarily suspended in the first wave and then welcomed back as safety protocols allowed. Contractors are necessary for the continued operations of the hospital. Volunteers, now being welcomed back into limited roles, and students will be required to show proof of full vaccination before entering the hospitals. Contractors, like hospital workers, must show proof of full vaccination or a negative rapid test result before entering.
Eighty per cent of Canadians aged 12 and above have elected to get vaccinated against COVID-19 to protect themselves, their families and their communities. The majority of healthcare workers have been leading the charge in vaccinations. At Bluewater Health, 94 per cent of staff have received at least one dose; 95 per cent of physicians are fully vaccinated.
“Our community is relying on us to provide safe, quality care,” said Mike Lapaine, President & CEO. “The highest rate of full vaccination among our care team is the best protection we can offer our patients and families.”
ABOUT BLUEWATER HEALTH
Bluewater Health, with locations in Sarnia and Petrolia, cares for the residents of Sarnia-Lambton. With close to 2,500 staff, Professional Staff and volunteers, Bluewater Health provides an array of specialized acute, complex continuing care, allied health and ambulatory care services. Bluewater Health’s Mission is: We create exemplary healthcare experiences with patients and families every time. For more information about Bluewater Health, visit www.bluewaterhealth.ca or follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Twitter and YouTube.
Media, for more information contact:
Julia Oosterman
Chief, Communications & Public Affairs
Bluewater Health
519-328-3136