The Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA) is providing an update on the cluster of COVID-19 cases in linked to Lloydminster Hospital.
The current guidelines at Lloydminster Hospital remain in place until otherwise notified. These guidelines, which were effective April 29, 2020, include cohorting patients in separate units in the hospital. COVID-19 patients will continue to be admitted to Lloydminster Hospital. Non-COVID-19 patients requiring admission may be diverted to another hospital.
Key emergency department, emergency surgical and obstetrical services remain available at Lloydminster Hospital and the public is reminded to access emergency and obstetrical services at Lloydminster Hospital when required.
All health care workers who have been identified as close contacts with a confirmed case are being tested as the contact investigation continues. On May 7, 2020, one health care worker on self-isolation tested positive and another case linked to a positive health care worker was diagnosed in the community.
Visitor restrictions remain in effect for Lloydminster Hospital as they are for all Saskatchewan health facilities.
The Saskatchewan Health Authority Service Resumption Plan, released May 5, noted a gradual, phased plan to allow for the resumption of health services in communities with the primary focus on patient and staff safety. Some health programs and services will reinstate services starting as early as May 19, however Lloydminster Hospital is not anticipated to be a part of the initial phase of the plan. The plan is flexible and adaptive and is designed to be mindful of local situations that will slow service resumption in certain areas. Ongoing risk assessment by public health and the Medical Health Officer will advise status on when the Lloydminster Hospital services may resume as normal.
The health and safety of our patients and the employees who care for them is of utmost importance to the Saskatchewan Health Authority, and keeping the people we serve and our employees and physicians healthy and safe is paramount to the work we do each and every day.
It is important for everyone to follow the guidelines for hand washing, social distancing and self-isolating shared by provincial and municipal governments to reduce the spread of COVID-19 and protect our most vulnerable populations. Together we can make a positive difference in our community by reducing the spread.