Physicians in Haliburton County have addressed the community regarding the harsh realities they face amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
On Monday, a letter was posted to the Haliburton county webpage from local physicians who are concerned about those choosing to reside in their seasonal residences.
The county says it realizes the importance of seasonal residents and visitors to the economy but adds they’re facing some harsh realities.
The county notes it has limited capacity to manage a health emergency and a substantial influx of visitors will further challenge their ability to source adequate beds, medical supplies, equipment and personal protective equipment to manage the pandemic.
In the letter, physicians are requesting consideration before choosing to reside at seasonal residences during this difficult period.
“Here in Haliburton County we appreciate all that you contribute to our area and that you value your time away from busier locales,” the letter read. “This is a stressful time with the threat of COVID-19 spreading throughout Canada. Closures of schools, recreation facilities, and cancellation of trips planned in advance, all lead to a desire to find a place to unwind and escape.”
The letter asks that before deciding to spend time at the cottage, you should consider that in Haliburton, there is only a small hospital, with just 15 beds, manned by a small pool of local physicians and another group of physicians who travel to the area for Emergency Room shifts.
The same group of local physicians cover their own clinics, three long term care homes and hospital in-patients.
In Minden, they note there is an Emergency Department but no inpatient beds.
“Neither location is equipped as an ICU and each has two transport ventilators that are used for transport to the closest ICU over an hour away,” the letter said. “We anticipate that our closest ICU will be strained supporting the population within its radius.”
The letter notes that the transport of patients between hospitals and larger centers is always challenging but especially with moving COVID-19 patients.
This will put many emergency health providers at risk.
“We have extremely dedicated nurses, paramedics and support staff who are all being asked to give beyond what should be asked of them.”
The physicians also acknowledge the large proportion of senior citizens that are relying on them to keep them safe.
“They truly are the most vulnerable during this pandemic. We collectively have a lot of work to do and look forward to when this threat is behind us and we can all rest and truly enjoy our County again.”
Until that time, the letter asks that you recognize the limits of the local health care system and consider remaining at your primary residence.
You can read the full letter here.