Timmins, ON – Timmins and District Hospital (TADH) will be supporting up to 80 patients a year to restore their health at home through a new Hospital to Home Program, which launched in January.

“This new program will help patients leave the hospital safely with the care and services in place to recover and restore their health. Hospital to Home has also shown to prevent unnecessary visits to the emergency department or hospital readmissions,” said Kate Fyfe, President and CEO.

Through a partnership with Bayshore HealthCare Integrated Care Solutions (ICS), eligible patients receive a bundle of services and care over a 16-week period to support them in their journey to restore their health in the comfort of where they live.

“It’s geared towards patients who might need nursing care with wounds, personal care with the activities of daily living (such as bathing, eating or dressing), or restorative care to start exercising and building strength,” said Joan Ludwig, Vice President of Clinical and Chief Nursing Executive. “In addition, it can also connect people with services in the community, such as meal providers and social supports.”

Bayshore’s team includes nurses, social workers, personal support workers, occupational and physical therapists, and rehabilitation assistants. Patients can speak with a nurse by phone around the clock, should their health change.

“This program represents a significant step forward in patient care, providing tailored support that ensures a smooth transition from hospital to home,” said Danielle Holler, Regional Director, @Home Transitional Care, Bayshore HealthCare. “We are committed to offering comprehensive services that meet each patient’s unique needs, enhancing their recovery and independence.”

The program starts with the creation of a care plan, 72 hours before a patient leaves the hospital, so services are in place. For instance, if the patient needs medical equipment, such as a commode or walker, this will be ordered in advance of their return home. Within their first 24-hours home, the patient receives an in-person nursing assessment, that also includes communication with their primary care provider and scheduled follow-up care.

Bayshore has been a key partner in 27 other Hospital to Home programs across the province. While more than 50% of patients taking part regain their independence and no longer need support at home after 16 weeks, approximately 46% are then referred to Ontario Health at Home for more home care and other services.

“This program will help with our hospital’s overall patient flow, as it supports patients, who may be waiting in hospital until services are in place for their next stage of care,” said Carla Dolanjski, Manager of Rehabilitation/Stroke/CCC Unit, Outpatient Rehabilitation and Stroke Programs. “It’s another pathway to care.”

The hospital is working with its valued partner, Ontario Health atHome, to help ensure the right patients are selected for this short-term, restorative program, aimed at helping patients regain their mobility and independence following time in hospital.

Quick facts:

• Eligibility: Patient is interested and willing to engage in the program; they can bean admitted patient at TADH or identified through the emergency department. Ideal candidates are those who need support over a short period of time to regain and restore their health.
• Not Eligible: If the patient is already receiving Ontario Health atHome services, was on services prior to admittance at the hospital, or is considered palliative. Also, if the patient requires overnight care and is unable to be left alone or is unable to meet basic living needs.

Photo caption: Staff members Lise Fleury and Juliet D’Acres, RN, join Mrs. P.D. (middle) as she gets ready to return home to her retirement residence with support from the Hospital to Home program.

Our commitment: TADH operates within the traditional lands of the Mattagami First Nation, located in Treaty 9 territory. Our team is committed to building strong, lasting relationships with Indigenous communities as we acknowledge the diversity, history and heritage of Indigenous Peoples in the North.

About Bayshore HealthCare: Bayshore HealthCare is a Canadian-owned company and one of the country’s leading home and community healthcare service providers. The company aims to enhance the quality of life, well-being, dignity and independence of Canadians of all ages. With locations across the country, including 80+ home care offices, 11 pharmacies and 100+ community care clinics, Bayshore has more than 18,000 staff members and provides care to over 350,000 clients annually. Bayshore has been a recipient of Canada’s Best Managed Companies award since 2006. https://www.bayshore.ca/ 

For more information contact TADH’s Communications Team: 705-267-2131 Ext. 2409 or communications@tadh.com