Construction Addiction and Mental Excellent energy ahead! Health MOU signed efficiency Dig into the latest updates on Horizon, Vitalité partner with Energy Network building Issue No. 26, Vol. 6 Horizon’s Capital Projects First Nation communities ‘legacy’ with solutions Summer 2021 Page 9 Page 10 Page 23 HorizonSTAR A publication for the staff of

Occupational helps quadriplegic patient pursue love of painting Page 5

“It makes me feel more comfortable because I’m able to express what I’m thinking in my language”: New video interpretation service improves patient care Page 6 TMH Neurodegenerative disorder clinic will “help restore some dignity to all patients who have been suffering in silence” Page 16 Contents 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 Occupational therapy Interpreter on Wheels: Collaboration and Innovation Seven more years of Construction Ahead! Across Horizon, Vitalité sign Horizon ophthalmologist Horizon is decreasing wait Horizon’s SJRH Lab to helps quadriplegic New video interpretation in SLP: Preserving an ALS accreditation status for Horizon, capital projects are MOU with First Nation establishes clinic times through new Joint Services team sends New Zealand: How a patient pursue service improves patient patient’s voice TMH’s Post-Grad Dietetic in full swing communities with first-of-its-kind Arthroplasty Centre support, treats to N.S. Horizon nurse has stayed love of painting care Internship Program A potrait of a health technology in NB colleagues during third connected with her junior care hero wave of COVID-19 high pen pal

OUR MISSION LIVING OUR VALUES Helping People Be Healthy. We show empathy, compassion and respect. We strive for excellence. OUR VISION We are all leaders, yet work as a team. 2021-2026 Exceptional Care. Every Person. Every Day. We act with integrity and are accountable. SOCIAL Efficient and System Wrapped Around Sustainability Appropriate Care Patient/Client Needs

· Reduce wait times throughout · Establish a culture to strengthen · Improve accountability for health the system health equity care service delivery results

SHOUT- · Improve patient/client safety · Excel and grow as a patient/client · Align human resources to achieve and quality of care and family-centred organization our strategic plan

· Coordinate health services · Reduce avoidable hospitalization · Innovate to improve productivity to smooth transitions of care and deliver services in · Empower patients, clients and the most cost-effective manner OUT · Provide health care at appropriate providers with options to access locations and times health information and services · Secure clinical and organizational information 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 Pharmacy director Neurodegenerative disorder DECRH Auxiliary Horizon’s Nursing Council: Social Shout-Out How Horizon’s Nurse Horizon’s Workplace Horizon celebrates Horizon is honoured to Did you know Horizon recognized with clinic at TMH will “help celebrates 130 years of Supporting quality nursing Practitioners adapted Violence Prevention employees marking receive the 2020 Legacy has a new Strategic national leadership restore some dignity to all service to its community practice for over a decade their practice during the Program milestone Years of Service Award from NB Power’s Plan? award patients who have been Resources available to COVID-19 pandemic and Retirement Energy Efficiency Horizon’s CCH supports suffering in silence” support patients who are Excellence Awards! school cereal box Deaf or hard-of-hearing challenge

On our cover: This magazine is published by Horizon Health Network’s Communications In Every Issue Occupational therapist Dan McShane helps Department, and is distributed free of charge to Horizon staff, physicians Message from CEO and volunteers. A French version can be found online at fr.horizonnb.ca. Editor’s Note patient Alan McEwen pursue his love of painting as an inpatient at Horizon’s The Editor: GinaBeth Roberts Colleagues’ Corner , as photographed in early June. Design and layout: Hudson Creative Agency Look Who’s Shining Printed by: Advocate Printing Please send comments and/or story ideas to [email protected]. A welcome note from the editor Dear Staff, Physicians and Volunteers, Occupational therapy helps From the bottom of my heart, I would like to sincerely thank all of our staff, physicians and volunteers for working through a global pandemic. As New Brunswickers are now receiving their second and final dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, our borders are opened, and our province is on the Path to Green – quadriplegic patient pursue we can finally look back and say the worst is behind us. Welcome to the 26th edition of the Horizon Star! I understand so many aspects of your life, both professional and personal, changed We are officially on the Path to Green in New Brunswick! during COVID-19. Everyone will look back at love of painting this time differently, but one thing for sure is You may be feeling relief, and are ready to have a more that Horizon and New Brunswick, as a whole, “normal” summer with outdoors events and festivals For Alan McEwen, and many other patients, conquered a global pandemic. This would and travel within Atlantic , or even beyond these the hospital environment is busy. not have been possible without your borders. His room is, too, with many machines and dedication to your profession, but also as cords for his health care team to monitor a New Brunswicker. Together we worked Or, maybe you liked the COVID-19 “normal” and you’re to keep our case numbers low by following his health. still anxious about the virus and re-opening plans. Public Health guidelines. In the middle of this hustle and bustle, As we move forward and return to things All of these anticipations, experiences and feelings are painting brings him calm. we were unable to do during the pandemic, normal, and I’m definitely feeling a cocktail of emotions. 4 please know that as a Horizon employee Alan is quadriplegic and has been a patient 5 you played a significant role in making this Now is a perfect time to reflect on what you and your at Horizon’s The Moncton Hospital for over happen. colleagues – what Horizon – have done over the last 16 a year. Now it’s time to focus on our future. In months. Think about the collaboration, the challenges, Karen McGrath The 62-year-old has been painting “a long, April, we released our strategic plan, Building President and CEO the things you’ve learned, the way you’ve changed how long time,” he said — since his twenties a Healthier Future. The plan serves as our you deliver or even implemented a new program — — and it’s a hobby he continued to pursue outline for how we want to improve the way we provide health care services to during a pandemic! after an accident meant he could no longer our patients, clients and their families, now and for the next five years. use his hands to do so. Going forward, all of our work will be guided by three strategic priorities: I am so lucky to hear so many of these stories in the run He now paints by manoeuvring his 1 Efficient and Appropriate Care of a day’s work, and I encourage all of you to share you paintbrush with his mouth, supported by 2 System Wrapped Around Patient/Client Needs stories with pride. 3 Sustainability. his occupational therapist (OT) Daniel (Dan) In this issue, there are many stories of amazing patient McShane, who holds his canvas and paint. Each of these priorities has objectives which will help Horizon to realize our care that has continued — again — during a pandemic, potential and position us for success in addressing the health care challenges Acrylic is Alan’s choice of paint and Alan and Dan make the perfect mixture of colours. our province is currently facing. More importantly, we understand and value and many stories of improvements or advancements to landscapes are his go-to subject; he has the significant role our staff, physicians and volunteers will have in helping us safe and quality care at Horizon. painted a lighthouse, and is working on a and with the correct pressure so he can achieve our strategic plan. On Pages 6, 7 and 16, learn about Horizon-wide services covered bridge. capture the shadows of his subject. If you haven’t done so already, I encourage you to familiarize yourself with that are support patients with improved communication He’s critical of his own work, and firm our strategic plan and think of ways that you can contribute. We’re interested Dan been with Horizon six months — his in your ideas and encourage you to discuss them with your manager. We’ve tools, and on Page 9 read how capital projects continue in his direction to his health care team, first job in his profession. He met Alan focused our plan on elements we believe to be foundational to all future to build the way for better spaces to provide care. ensuring he has the perfect amount of soon after he started working here, after improvements for health care delivery. “titanium white” or “silver” on his brush the Occupational Therapy unit received And check out the story on Page 13 to learn how lab staff and the canvas is held at the perfect angle Our strategic plan was developed with the help of our patients, clients, staff, a referral to help Alan enjoy more leisure at Horizon’s Saint John Regional Hospital supported their physicians, and health care and community stakeholders and we would like to activities. colleagues in a neighbouring province when COVID-19 thank everyone that contributed helping us develop our plan. “As far as occupational therapy, we always hit hard. I would like to close by saying how extremely honoured I was to be named look for not just (medical) needs that people one of Atlantic Canada’s Top 50 CEOs for 2021. Working at Horizon has been These all tie into Horizon’s Strategic Plan, which will have, but meaningful activities in forms of the pinnacle of my career in health care. I would not have been able to receive guide our work through 2026. Flip to the back cover to leisure,” said Dan. “I think those are just this esteemed honour without the dedication and skillsets you bring to this as important in terms of keeping someone organization every day. Thank you. learn more. medically stable is having meaning in Finally, our well-deserved summer is here. I encourage all of you to make the I hope you’ll continue to reach me at somebody’s life.” Alan’s choice of paint is acrylic. most of it – you deserve it! [email protected] with new ideas. Dan credits the nursing team who have As well, Alan has some movement in his Reconnect with family and friends, explore our lovely part of the country and supported Alan even amongst the business left hand, so they’ve worked with joysticks most importantly – rest! Happy reading, of an acute floor. and switches to try to allow him to be Sincerely, more interactive and independent with his Painting is just one activity Dan and Alan computer. have worked on during their time together; they also use a piece of assistive technology Dan also works with new acute inpatients, GinaBeth Roberts Karen McGrath Alan concentrates on his canvas and studies his that plugs into his computer that he primarily those who’ve had a stroke and President and CEO Editor, Horizon Star subject as he begins to paint. controls with his mouth. have been recently admitted to the hospital. Horizon Health Network Colleagues Corner Interpreter on Wheels: New video interpretation Collaboration and Innovation in SLP: service improves patient care Preserving an ALS patient’s voice A new interpretation service called Interpreter on Wheels is now available in certain Horizon facilities. The device is an iPads on wheels, providing a hands-free video experience, similar to Skype or Zoom. Until now, Horizon provided interpretation service for patients who spoke languages other than French or English over the telephone,which could be challenging in some circumstances. The face-to-face technology of the Interpreter on Wheels provides a great level of comfort for patients while communicating with their health care team. It also helps health care providers gain accurate understanding of the patient’s symptoms and needs, communicate diagnoses effectively The Interpreter on Wheels offers service in over 250 languages, including American Sign Language, and ensure follow-up care instructions and and certain First Nations Languages. medication directives are understood. Heather Tizzard, occupational therapist at However, she was unaware of his actual level of “It makes me feel stress prior to using the translation service. more comfortable Horizon’s The Moncton Hospital, and one of From left: Madeleine (Maddie) Leger, a speech-language pathologist (SLP) at Horizon’s The Moncton Hospital (TMH); Susan Howey, an SLP at Horizon’s Stan Cassidy Centre for her patients, Kwang Bok Ko, can attest to the because I’m able 6 It was during their first use of the video Rehabilitation; and Monica Poirier, occupational therapist on Rehabilitation meet via Zoom for Health Care, showing how health care providers from different disciplines and 7 benefits of the Interpreter on Wheels. to express what interpretation service that Kwang was able to facilities in Horizon can collaborate to provide safe and quality care for patients. I’m thinking in my successfully identify nuances in the functional Both agree the service provides a more language,” he said. A complex case has proved how disciplines and could use strategies and/or devices that either includes catchphrases or something important personable experience, a more relaxed use of his thumb that he required for his work colleagues across Horizon can come together to augment or replace speech if speech is challenging. they’d say to their loved ones or caregivers. environment, and in their case, helped as a sushi chef. Kwang’s mother create the best treatment and quality of life for AAC devices can be low-tech, such as non- The patient has already started writing down progress therapy and ensure they were both tongue is Mandarin. “Upon learning this new information, I was a patient. electronic writing tools, or high-tech, such as a messages to be banked: her loved ones’ on the same page for treatment goals. able to tailor treatment to facilitate achieving Before the Interpreter May was Speech and Hearing Month, and two speech generating device or a communication names, “I Love You,” her laugh, and her “Prior to using the Interpreter on Wheels, I the specific movements Kwang required to on Wheels, Kwang’s Horizon speech language pathologists (SLP) and app. These tools support someone who has signature saying, “You bet!” do his job well,” said Heather. “I think the son or daughter would provided a superficial level of service,” said an occupational therapist (OT) dedicated time difficulties communicating using speech. These are statements, the care teams says, Interpreter on Wheels creates efficiency and accompany him to his Heather. “I was able to treat what I saw, and energy over the past several months to For this patient, an app was a good fit, as she where a synthesized voice just wouldn’t cut it. improved patient satisfaction because specific appointments to relay and in Kwang’s case, it was a laceration and help a patient preserve her natural voice in case could use it to type a message or to do text-to- goals can be identified.“ information back and For this patient, the team is building a bank of subsequent repair to his extensor tendon of the her diagnoses takes it away from her. speech. High-tech devices come with costs, but thumb. Treatment is relatively standard for this forth between their both utterances and full phrases. So far, they’ve Kwang, who has been receiving occupational Madeleine (Maddie) Leger is a speech- the team was able to secure the patient an iPad type of injury.” dad and Heather. done 2,000 utterances; the maximum number therapy treatment for five-and-a-half months language pathologist at Horizon’s The Moncton donated through Easter Seals, and are working for the app they’re working with is 3,500. Heather said there were a few complications post-surgery for his damaged ligament, says “Using a professional Hospital (TMH). She recently began working on getting an app. along Kwang’s healing path that caused him the interpretation service has been a great help interpreter is much with a person who was recently diagnosed The process hasn’t been all smooth sailing; “This process, for someone with ALS, can help while the patient, who is in hospital, is eager, stress. to him. more efficient, Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). give them a bit of a sense of control over a least a because they have it’s still a tiring process and one that’s difficult ALS is a progressive neurological condition that piece of all they are facing,” said Susan. “Even to come to terms with. better knowledge of may eventually affect a person’s ability to speak. if at some point they’re not able to use their medical terminology,” natural speech, they have a back-up system.” Maddie relied on Monica Poirier, occupational said Kwang. “Also, Maddie and the patient are working to record therapist (OT) on the Rehabilitation floor at my children used “sound bytes” (utterances and full phrases) of Voice banking is a strategy to help people who TMH, to ensure the patient could use the to have to change the patient’s current speech so if her speech are at-risk of losing their speech or losing their equipment provided at any stage in her their schedules becomes affected, a computer will be able to voice create a synthetic voice that sounds diagnoses. The patient uses a power wheelchair and miss activities to accompany me to my speak for her. like them (especially compared to a typical (one of the first patients that, on the first day, appointments, and now that is no longer the The patient is a perfect candidate for recording computerized voice on any speech-generating she was able to use an elevator, Monica said). case.” device). The process involves reading out and storing her voice: she has clear speech and As an OT, Monica ensured the wheelchair could is extremely eager to participate in voice and loud and recording many sentences — The implementation of this service aligns with hold the iPad and the patient could easily access message banking. sometimes more than 2,000. This takes time, Horizon’s 2021 Strategic Plan goals to provide commitment, motivation and stamina. it at the right angle to use independently. efficient and appropriate care and create a “It was one of her goals from the get-go, even If a patient‘s speech is significantly This care plan can be used with patients with system wrapped around patient and client prior to talking about AAC – augmentative impacted, voice banking is a way to build a neurological diseases and injuries — anyone needs. alternate communication,” said Maddie. “She more personal-sounding synthetic voice to who has difficulty using their natural speech, said, ‘I want to be able to communicate my including those who have a stroke or brain injury, The goal of using this technology is to improve basic wishes, my wants and needs, until the communicate their message. patient safety and health equity by ensuring all are diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis and even very end’.” Message banking, on the other hand, is the those with an upcoming surgery where they patients understand their care, and their needs recording of specific statements, which are are understood by their caregiver. To start the process, Maddie reached out to may temporarily lose their natural speech. Susan Howey, a speech-language pathologist at stored on a device and the patient only has Twelve Interpreter on Wheels were deployed to press play to play back the message — They all agree the patient’s willingness to go Horizon’s Stan Cassidy Centre for Rehabilitation. through this experience, as well as their time throughout Horizon facilities in April 2021. Due Susan specializes in augmentative communication, intonation, emotion, feeling and all. to the significant demand, video interpretation together collaborating on her care, will help and one of her roles is to connect with local Message banking has to include words or other patients down the road. Heather Tizzard and Kwang Bok Ko preparing to call in to the Interpreter on Wheels service to begin their services are now also available on certain SLPs to collaborate on cases where patients phrases they’d anticipate saying, and often occupational therapy session at Horizon’s The Moncton Hospital. Horizon-issued laptops and tablets. Want to tell your colleagues about the services you provide for patients and staff throughout Horizon? Email [email protected]. Seven more years of accreditation status for ACROSS HORIZON, TMH’s Post-Grad Dietetic Internship Program CAPITAL PROJECTS The Post-Graduate Dietetic Internship Program The process involves self- and peer-evaluation went through the accreditation process. Like at Horizon’s The Moncton Hospital has a lot to to ensure the program delivery complies with most things through 2020, this round of celebrate. national standards and encourages programs accreditation was a bit different. ARE IN FULL SWING. to strive for quality improvement. Not only do they graduate incredible To earn accreditation status, the program students every year (for over 45 years!) they The Moncton Hospital Post-Graduate has 12 to 18 months to prepare a self-study If you work at or have been to Horizon’s Dr. Everett Chalmers just received full accreditation status from Dietetic Internship Program program is not report, which is received by an accreditation Regional Hospital or The Moncton Hospital recently, there is no the Partnership for Dietetic Education and affiliated with a university – students come review team. The final step is an on-site visit. doubt you’ve witnessed the progress. Practice (PDEP). The program is the only from various dietetic programs across the The on-site visit includes the accreditation seven-year accredited one in Atlantic country and the program maintains its own team meeting with senior administration, Let’s take a look! Canada, at this time. accreditation status through PDEP. the program director, internal and external preceptors as well as with current and past The Moncton Hospital (TMH) Dr. Everett Chalmers Regional Hospital (DECRH) Full accreditation status lasts seven years; the Each year four students, who have already interns. Construction is well underway for the new two-level maternal The DECRH is undergoing a major transformation – renovations and other two accreditation categories are two- completed a nutrition degree, are accepted newborn services building at TMH. multiple new additions. year accreditation (fewer criteria) or candidacy into the 47-week program. But the pandemic didn’t allow for on-site When it comes to new builds, TMH campus poses some challenges, This multi-year project includes the following functional program areas: (new programs). visits. After postponing the on-site visit not as there isn’t space around the facility to expand. The new addition • • Maternal, Newborn and once, but twice, a new plan was put in place. Jill Thibodeau, manager of clinical nutrition Accreditation is an essential is being built in a former parking lot between the Professional Arts • Ambulatory Procedures Unit Services and the internship program, is extremely aspect of the program. It In November 2020, the program successfully Building on Arden Street and TMH’s main entrance on MacBeath Avenue. • Surgical Suite • Surgical Day Care Unit proud of her team and all the hard work that hosted the first virtual dietetic program Once complete, the new unit will offer a modernized and more family- • Specimen Collection • Medical Device Reprocessing went into this accomplishment. This is the matters for students and accreditation site visit! centred space for Labour and Birthing Unit, Neonatal Intensive Care • Clinical Records second time the program received a seven- Unit and the Maternal Fetal Clinic. To accommodate the extensive renovations and construction, all while year accreditation – the first was in 2012. their future careers! “The intended outcome of the accreditation process is for programs to be able to Construction began in summer 2020, with a completion date set for continuing to offer safe and quality care, many functions and units have “Only accredited Dietetic Education Programs moved or been displaced. 8 “To be awarded a seven-year accreditation can render dietetic interns eligible to write demonstrate the quality and effectiveness December 2022. Occupancy for staff, physicians, patients and clients 9 status, the program has to demonstrate the Canadian Dietetic Registration Exam,” needed to protect the public interest, the is January 2023. Completion and occupancy of this multi-year project is expected by evidence of compliance with all nine core said Jill. “The exam is required to practice needs of students and the profession of 2027 – but there are many key milestones to be met before then. criteria and evidence of meeting a minimum as a registered dietitian and to register with dietetics,” said Jill. of 12 of all the other criteria as part of the provincial regulatory bodies.” Accreditation Standards for Dietetic Education The renewed seven-year accreditation Programs in Canada,” she explained. COVID-19 changed the way the program will certainly achieve those results. Congratulations to the entire team!

An aerial view of construction at TMH as seen in in April 2021. Early stages of construction at the DECRH on Aug. 28, 2019.

An aerial view of construction at TMH as seen in April 2021.

Construction is well underway at TMH in this photo taken from MacBeath Street in The three-storey south addition has begun to take shape on Sept. 2, 2020. June 2021.

Jill Thibodeau, manager of clinical nutrition and the internship program, showcases the seven-year accreditation plaque the program earned this year. Artist rendering of TMH completed project. Progress is well underway at the DECRH by June 10, 2021. Horizon, Vitalité sign MOU with First Nation communities Horizon ophthalmologist establishes clinic “With this MOU, we will strengthen our relationship to those who can effect change within the and work together with our First Nation Canadian Health Care system to recognize with first-of-its-kind technology in NB community partners and enhance our cultural the values of traditional Indigenous healing competency and safety,” said Karen McGrath, practices and implement cultural competency A Horizon ophthalmologist has purchased Horizon President and CEO. “We hope this training within health care organizations. a new piece of equipment that will provide will help lift the burden and create a stronger, patients with an even better look at their eye Partners will collaboratively implement calls more reliable plan for us to work together.” health. to action that refer to the better delivery of The Optos Silverstone. By signing this agreement, both Horizon and health care services for Indigenous Peoples. Four years ago, Dr. Hila Zommer Sykes Vitalité confirm their commitment to carrying settled in Miramichi where she founded out addiction and mental health services to a comprehensive medical and surgical Karen McGrath, Horizon President and CEO, and See Horizon Star story from June 2019 (Page clinic. She also practices in her Wolastoqiyik without prejudice to other health 19), when the Mawlugutineg Mental Wellness Dr. France Desrosiers, President and CEO of Vitalité care services that may be in place, as well as sub-specialty of orbit disease and oculoplastic Health Network, sign the Wolastoqewi Addiction Partnership was signed by representatives from acknowledging that providing these supplementary surgery. and Mental Health Services Memorandum of Esgenoôpetitj (Burnt Church), Metepenagiag Understanding. services are a part of their mandate. (Red Bank) Mi’kmaq, Ugpi’Ganjig (Eel River Bar), Over the past several years she has encountered Pabineau, and Natoaganeg (Eel Ground) First The Truth and Reconciliation Commission many diabetic and vascular eye diseases. A partnership between six First Nation Nations, Horizon and Vitalité. communities and the province’s two regional of Canada shared calls to action that speak “The main reason I got into ophthalmology health authorities will see a commitment to was because I saw my grandmother lose her providing better addiction and mental health vision to diabetes,” she said. “She had mobility services in New Brunswick. issues and it was difficult to check her eyes.” The signing of the MOU took place April 22, In order to better serve the population and to at the Maqiyahtimok Centre in Sitansisk (St. catch these diseases early, thereby improve Mary’s) First Nation, where representatives outcomes, she purchased an Optos Silverstone from Matawaskiye (Madawaska), Neqotkuk — the first of its kind in the province. (Tobique), Wotstak (Woodstock), Pilick Dr. Zommer calls this an amazing device, 10 (Kingsclear), Sitansisk, and Welamukotuk which performs many functions, including 11 (Oromocto) First Nations joined together with ultra-wide angle fundus imaging, ultra-wide representatives from Horizon and Vitalité optical coherence tomography (UWOCT), ultra- Health Networks to sign the Wolastoqewi wide fluorescein angiography (UWFA) and Addiction and Mental Health Services indocyanine green angiography (UWICG). Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). “This single device incorporates four standalone Dr. Hila Zommer Sykes is pictured at her clinic in Miramichi, with the Optos Silverstone. Through the MOU, both health authorities devices,” she said. “So, instead of a patient have committed to maintaining addiction moving between three or four different thinning in the periphery of the retina, the “When I was considering this device, it ticked and mental health services in First Nation locations, he or shecan stay put and all the layers of the retina can now be scanned with all the boxes,” she said. “It is fast — one shot communities and increasing addiction and testing gets done. It is faster and great peripheral OCT to permit better diagnosis and and done, and makes it easier on the patients.” mental health services based on the need for people with mobility issues. It also saves optimal treatment. Dr. Zommer loves her workplace, her city, and availability of resources. Need will be The Wolastoqewi Addiction and Mental Health Services Memorandum of Understanding means both Horizon and time while giving us a great amount of Another feature of the device is that it is also and her patients. Her patients come from all identified through First Nations-led community Vitalité are committed to maintaining addiction and mental health services in First Nation communities and are information about the eye.” assessments. committed to increasing addiction and mental health services based on need and availability of resources. used for ultra-wide fluorescein angiography (FA). around Miramichi, as well as from the Acadian “For OCT, we scan the layers of the retina,” Peninsula, and range in age from 0 to 100+. “This machine will capture ultra-wide images explains Dr. Zommer. “That allows me to Dr. Zommer provides service in both French of the blood vessels filled with fluorescein, image and diagnose pathologies at the far and English. showing us leaking vessels, areas of nonperfusion, reaches of the eye, which, due to its complex and even new blood vessels,” said Dr. Zommer, “We want to be able to give a fast, efficient anatomy, are hard to scan.” adding she can capture anomalies in vessels and top-notch service to the people of New A portrait of a health care hero “Until now, most devices could preform an in the far periphery in a short period of time. Brunswick,” she said. “They deserve it.” OCT only of the center of the retina. With this That is obtained with IV or oral contrast Dr. Zommer’s work also includes researching Evelyn Sochasky, daughter of Janice Bradley, an eHealth Analyst at device we are able to scan not only the center, administration. an artificial intelligence-led treatment that has Horizon’s The Moncton Hospital, recently drew a picture for the but also the far periphery,” she added. “As a Faces of The device is also capable of taking ICG images, “the potential to revolutionize the treatment of result, it allows me to catch a small problem Canadian Health Care Contest, held by HealthPro Canada. which is another diagnostic ultra-wide imaging both AMD (age related macular degeneration) before it endangers vision. If there is any method that captures the choroid (another of diabetic retinopathy and even treatment of doubt as to whether there is a small tear or She had hopes of winning the $25,000 prize money for the hospital. vascular layer of the eye) by using a special retinal tears and thinning area.” contrast. “We hope this is the future — fast, painless Unfortunately, the 10-year-old couldn’t submit her artwork because she and exact treatment.” was a minor. Still, she wanted to show how proud she was of her mom, and the rest of TMH staff, and their hard work during the COVID-19 pandemic, so she submitted this photo to be featured in the Horizon Star. “I love my mom and she works at The Moncton Hospital,” she said. “If I had won the contest, I would have given the money to The Moncton Hospital to help buy supplies or whatever ... I just wanted to help other people!”

Thank you, Evelyn, for this kind gesture! Dr. Hila Zommer Sykes. Dr. Hila Zommer Sykes and her team. Horizon is decreasing wait times through new Horizon’s SJRH Lab Services team sends support, treats Joint Arthroplasty Centre to N.S. colleagues during third wave of COVID-19 Horizon’s St. Joseph’s Hospital (SJH) located “It truly was a team When began seeing an influx of in Saint John’s city centre is known for its effort to bring this new COVID-19 cases in the spring, members of the expertise in geriatric medicine, and in the program to life, in the Lab Services’ team at Horizon’s Saint John fall of 2020 the hospital welcomed surgical middle of the global Regional Hospital knew this meant an increased inpatients for the first time in 20 years. pandemic,” said Nicole workload for lab teams across the neighbouring province — and they wanted to help. Through a commitment in finding solutions to Miller, orthopaedic barriers communities face, Horizon launched nurse associate. “There Ashley Stevens, a medical laboratory assistant a new joint arthroplasty service at SJH, and was a tremendous in Cytopathology, asked members of a local since October 2020, the team has completed amount of collaboration lab Facebook group if they were interested in 412 hip and knee arthroplasties through this and dedication from donating money to purchase something for new service, which has assisted in reducing multidisciplinary teams their Atlantic Canadian colleagues to cheer them on during their arduous battle against wait times at Horizon. and individuals to launch this initiative.” COVID-19. “This initiative has made a lot of ancillary They were originally going to support just health care providers think a little outside the Besides the practical the Microbiology team at Queen Elizabeth box, so to speak, with respect to providing training, surgeons Dr. Members of the Joint Arthroplasty Centre team, from left: Anne Martin, Jessica Harley, Kerr and Dr. James II Health Sciences Centre (QEII) in Halifax, surgical services to patients in a different Rachel Sypher, Nathan Edwards, Stacy Murdock, Kimberly Gorman, Tracy Adams but, “our lab, in true fashion, went above and setting and atmosphere, and in a safe, Wagg held ‘lunch and learn’ sessions to field questions about Overcoming challenges often brings rewards and beyond in response,” said Ashley, so they efficient, and cost-effective way,” explained were able to spread the love amongst all lab the procedures and population of patients there have been many rewards that have come Dr. Darren Kerr, Horizon’s division head of divisions at the hospital. orthopaedics. receiving the hip and knee arthroplasty from this new initiative. surgeries. More than $1,185 was donated from retired Launching a new service and welcoming “The most rewarding aspect of offering this service and active lab staff, lab physicians and staff inpatients for the first time in two decades is And although the program has witnessed at St. Joe’s (SJH), is knowing the difference it has from satellite clinics outside of SJRH. Members of the Lab Services team at Horizon’s Saint John Regional Hospital organized treats to be delivered 12 no small feat, but leaders from Horizon’s Saint tremendous success, there have been many made to our community and the surgical wait times to their counterparts in Nova Scotia during that province’s third wave of COVID-19 cases. From left: Cheryl 13 “Our lab is so supportive of one another Oliver, a medical laboratory technologist in Cytopathology; Ashley Stevens, a medical laboratory assistant in John Regional Hospital (SJRH) and SJH worked challenges t the team has worked to overcome, for primary total knee and hip replacements,” said during struggles and triumphs, and if there Cytopathology; and Dr. Jennifer Shea, a clinical biochemist in the Chemistry department. diligently to ensure the team was given the as launching a new service during a pandemic Joanne Hanson, operating room manager at SJH. has brought on its share of obstacles. is anything that COVID-19 has taught us, it knowledge and information to provide safe Joanne explained how staff have embraced the is how important empathy and compassion The group also wanted to use the opportunity the actual tests and preparing the shipments to and optimal care to this new population. “The surgeons’ office managers adapted implementation of the Joint Arthroplasty Centre are,” said Ashley. “We have been waging a to support a local business, as many had to send to the Dr. Georges-L.-Dumont University reduce services during this third wave. They Hospital Centre in Moncton (New Brunswick’s In addition to training in orthopaedic nursing, to delivery of pre-op information and have and are excelling in their roles. constant battle of the unknown for over a ordered a variety of individually-wrapped baked testing microbiology laboratory). staff received cross-training opportunities completely stepped up to screen and provide year and during this last wave to hit NS I think “Seeing all the different teams come together to goods from the Gingerbread Haus Bakery in to experience hands-on practice in caring patients with necessary information at we all mutually felt for them and had the “Diagnostic laboratories are often lost in the make it possible in a short period has been amazing,” Halifax, and the rest of the donated funds various points of contact,” Nicole said. “They constant thought, ‘That could easily be us as a equation of helping a patient’s medical team for patients who undergo hip and knee she said. “We are proud of the work we do.” were used to purchase goods from Costco. replacement surgery. Experts throughout then direct them to the necessary resources community/lab as it is them.’ It was important find a diagnosis. We are hidden in plain sight Horizon came together to ensure the team as required, including pre-op preparation Access to service is vital in providing quality for us to show them ‘Hey, you’re not alone. We Anita was able to co-ordinate deliveries and in every sample that is collected, whether it be was prepared to launch this new program information through video links, zoom care, and for unit manager Shelley Henry, the feel for you and you got this!’” have someone from their lab waiting to urine, blood etc.” she said. “Without our team successfully. meeting details and information packages.” new program is improving that access through The logistics around a cross-province donation receive the goods. These snacks were then of skilled health professionals, the answers to orthopedic surgery. while strict COVID-19 rules around food distributed to many different lab departments. some health issues, like COVID-19, would be Sessions on acute pain management, “The general impact the pandemic had in preparation and distribution were in place was lost. Many of our laboratory departments run anaesthetic protocol and key nursing turning the world and health care on its side “Providing such a positive impact on the quality COVID-19 has made laboratories across the daunting; this is where Dr. Jennifer Shea, a world resilient, Ashley said, including the labs 24/7 so having the public know we are here for assessments took place, and physiotherapy was a major challenge and took a lot of very of life for people has been very rewarding,” clinical biochemist in the Chemistry department at Horizon. them at anytime day or night is important. staff delivered training on the routines and positive and innovative thinking to make this Shelley said. “Change can be difficult, but I think and Cheryl Oliver, a medical laboratory Everyone has risen to the challenge of COVID-19 “If COVID-19 has a silver lining, for us it is that processes for discharge criteria. happen.” we have come out stronger.” technologist in Cytopathology, played an and staff are all working together — whether it laboratory professionals and the care they provide essential role. is staffing COVID-19 Assessment Centres and is being recognized and for that we are grateful.” Dr. Shea reached out to her QEII colleagues, Vaccination Clinics, and found a point person, Anita Muse, who preparing COVID-19 helped with distribution to various Nova Scotia testing kits, and last, Health Authority lab locations. but not least, running

Members of the Joint Arthroplasty Centre team, from left: Randy Jefferson, Joanne Hanson, Jackie Jones, Susie Palmer, Janelle Shannon, Diane Kirkpatrick, Sherri Fougere, Shelly Maisonneuve, Annette Chanyi and Stephanie Ewing. Members of the QEII’s Laboratory Services team benefitted from the donations and were grateful for the support. New Brunswick to New Zealand: How a Horizon nurse Pharmacy director recognized with has stayed connected with her junior high pen pal national leadership award Kathy Reeder is a nurse at the Dr. Sheldon H. A big round of applause for Doug Doucette, Horizon’s Pharmacy weekly “Director’s Message” to all Rubin Clinic at Director who was recently honoured with the HealthPRO Excellence pharmacy staff with catchy titles Horizon’s The Moncton in Pharmacy Practice – Leadership Award by the Canadian Society of like Choose a higher perspective. Hospital. Hospital Pharmacists (CSHP). Find your inspiration. Cultivate hope and COVID-19 Road Trips and Her journey to find one of The annual award, which recognizes the leadership of an individual Gratitude. He even shared links to her life-long best friends or team that has expertly managed a crisis or other difficult time, songs, poems or other words of started when she was a was presented to Doug on March 21 during the CSHP’s national inspiration. young girl, in Grade 7 — Kathy, when her virtual award ceremony. friendship began with even though they were “Doug’s messages really resonate Gayel. “I was surprised when I heard the news and sincerely humbled that over 15,000 kilometres with staff, and we appreciate someone on my team would nominate me for this,” said Doug. “I’ve apart. his regular communication and been very active in CSHP throughout my career and it’s a real honour attention to any of our concerns,” “Somebody in my class to receive an award from them.” said Faith Louis, Regional Manager had a New Zealand Doug Doucette, Horizon’s Director Doug was nominated for the award by his colleague and friend of 30 QI and Support Services at the of Pharmacy. pen pal, and I thought I years Carole Goodine, Pharmacy Clinical Manager at Horizon’s Dr. DECRH. would like to have one, Everett Chalmers Regional Hospital (DECRH). Testimonies of Doug’s too, so the next time Doug earned his Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy Degree from exceptional leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic were proudly my classmate wrote to in 1989 and his Doctor of Pharmacy from the submitted to the CSHP’s National Awards Committee in October. her pen pal she told her Gayel, when her University of Toronto in 1995 and has had a longstanding history of she had a classmate who friendship started with “When COVID hit there was a great deal of staff anxiety,” said Carole. excellence in pharmacy in a variety of settings, including the Canadian wanted one, too,” she said. Kathy. From left: Kathy and Gayel, the last time they met, in 2017. “Doug was quick to set up a forum for regular communication with Armed Forces, before joining Horizon in 2006. In December 2018, Doug And that’s how Kathy met her best friend, pharmacy site managers and I appreciated that he was calm and was named Director of Pharmacy. respectful of staff concerns and always attempted to provide timely Gayel Child. Tragedy hit again when Gayel was diagnosed she entered them in a “best friend competition” “Doug has been instrumental in building a team of leaders to 14 answers to our questions. He makes it easier for me to do my job as 15 with breast cancer in 2005. Kathy showed in New Zealand, and even though they didn’t assist in the advancement of pharmacy services,” said Gary Foley, Back then, the time between sending and a Pharmacy Clinical Manager and I am happy to be on his team.” receiving letters was long, but that didn’t bother support by calling and emailing her — and win, their story was so touching it was published VP Professional Services. “And throughout the pandemic he has Kathy or take away from their strong bond. taking action at home. in the magazine’s (Take5) Best Friend of the Year In the early days of Horizon’s pandemic planning, Doug adopted consistently built morale and expressed support and appreciation to feature. the motto Show Calm, Show Trust, Show Care as a guidepost for our team for their efforts in ensuring we deliver the utmost quality and ”There was normal teenage girl talk,” said “I walked the Confederation Bridge for her,” she said. “I carried a sign and said I’m walking in Maintaining a long-distance friendship navigating mostly unchartered territory. safety of care to our patients. It’s a privilege to have a such a high- Kathy. “We were both the same age — you caliber professional on my team.” know boys and music and clothes.” honor of my friend from New Zealand who is “It takes effort, you have to be willing to put in “The pandemic is massive in scope and like nothing anyone has ever battling breast cancer. When I got to the other a time,” said Kathy, of maintaining their long- dealt with before,” said Doug. “It was important for me to recognize “Doug is respected within our team and by stakeholders in and out of In time, around age 18, they lost contact with side, I turned my sign over, got someone to distance friendship. “I think it does not matter that my team would be shifting from their routine and to make sure our hospital network,” added Carole. “He continues to lead us through one another as they entered the workforce and take my picture, and I said, ‘I did it, Gayel’.” whether your friend is down the street or around they felt supported and encouraged during this unprecedented time.” changing and challenging times and inspires us to work towards a got married. the world. You have to be willing to be there common goal.” Earlier in their friendship, when Kathy was To that end, Doug organized daily pharmacy leadership huddles to Then, one day, five years later, Kathy received a in the good times, in the bad. It doesn’t mean diagnosed with Hodgkin’s lymphoma when she keep managers informed of the newest developments, provided a Congratulations Doug for this well-deserved award! letter from Gayel. was 15, she remembers getting a card from you have to be physically beyond her doorstep obviously, just thinking of them, talk to them.” “I was thrilled,” she recalled. “I recognized her Gayel while in hospital. writing right away.” Again, when Kathy went through heart surgery For her, her friendship with Gayel is “one in a million.” Kathy wrote her back, and when Gayel in 2008, her best friend supported her. Horizon’s CCH supports school cereal box challenge received the letter three weeks letter, they had “I’m very thankful that God brought her into my They have seen each other through tough times, officially reconnected. life,” said Kathy. “She was a big support to me.” and they have been able to do it from thousands of miles apart. St. Stephen Elementary School held In tough times, we all need a friend Good memories a cereal box dominos challenge for When tears are in your eyes, I’ll dry them all, Sometimes, life can bring good from the bad. “Even if we don’t see each other again face-to- I’m on your side. Oh, when times get rough, face, our friendship will endure,” said Kathy. its “Pay it Forward” day at the end In 1990, Kathy and her best friend were able and friends just can’t be found, like a bridge of April, with all cereal going to the over troubled water, I will lay me down… to meet in-person for the first time thanks to compensation Gayel received from an accident. food bank in St. Stephen. The lyrics from the popular song Bridge Over Troubled Water represent what the friends have The first time they saw each other, Kathy came Staff at Horizon’s Charlotte County been for one another. with James, her husband, her mother, Mary, sister, Lisa, aunt, Hilda, and good friend, Kathryn. Hospital (CCH) gave back to their They have both experienced tragedies, community by donating 41 boxes of including the loss of Gayel’s son. “I was nervous, but I remember thinking, ‘Wow! She is coming all by herself to a place where cereal to the school. “That was an awful time,” said Kathy. “It was she knows nobody, all alone’,” she said. “There Christmas time and he died on Christmas Eve were no need to be nervous because it was like but because it is sixteen, seventeen hours time we had known each other our whole life . difference, by the time we got the phone call it was Christmas Day there.” Two years later, Gayel returned with her family to visit Kathy, and came back again in 2003, Even though they were separated by the Pacific 2007, 2012 and 2017. Ocean, Kathy supported her friend and let her know she was there for her. In 2007, they had celebrated Gayel’s 50th birthday. “We’ve made a lot of calls and (at one point) I emailed her every day. Sometimes it was a “We did some touristic things, we went Frenchy’s, long note, sometimes it was a few lines to say, shopping, we borrowed a van, we went to Shediac and to Bouctouche,” said Kathy. ‘I’m thinking of you.’ I just wanted to let her Kathy with her sign after walking the Confederation know that there were people here thinking of The fifth visit included a surprise from Gayel: Bridge for her best friend Gayel in 2005. her,” said Kathy. Neurodegenerative disorder clinic at TMH will “help restore some DECRH Auxiliary celebrates 130 years of service dignity to all patients who have been suffering in silence” to its community A new, multi-disciplinary clinic located within while also providing a setting where clinicians as the Chalmers Hospital Auxiliary Theatre Horizon’s The Moncton Hospital (TMH) is will be able share information and ideas while (CHAT). serving as the nerve centre of New Brunswick’s working toward common objectives. Other major donations the auxiliary has ongoing fight to learn more about a mysterious For patients referred to the clinic by their helped achieve over the years include: neurodegenerative illness and how it is impacting physician or primary care provider, they will the lives of dozens of patients. have access to a cross-speciality medical team $170,000 Horizon’s Special Neurodegenerative Disorder made up of physicians specializing in for an ultrasound for Maternal and Child Health; Clinic (SNDC) officially opened its doors in and , as well as a social worker, April to a cohort of 48 patients suffering from neuropsychologist and a Registered nurse. $450,000 rapid or early-onset neurocognitive decline for lights and monitors in 3 minimally-invasive Consultation with various services such as being caused by a source of unknown origin. surgical suites; neurology, geriatrics, , The situation has garnered national and and pathology will also be involved in Dr. Jason MacDonald, an internist and geriatrician, $350,000 international attention as a team of clinicians establishing and confirming a diagnosis. and one of the clinical leads at the new Special towards a new CT scan; and from across the province work to pin down The on-site team is currently headed up by Neurodegenerative Disorder Clinic at Horizon’s The the cause of the disease and examine ways Moncton Hospital. Dr. MacDonald, as well as Dr. Annette Thebeau $150,000 of providing the best possible care to patients and Dr. Alier Marrero. eventually over time help us to further refine for ICU monitor upgrades. who have been diagnosed. the case definition.” Dr. Edouard Hendriks, Horizon’s Vice-President Dr. Jason MacDonald, a geriatrician at In total, over $5.4 million has been donated Medical, Academic and Research Affairs, noted It’s expected the clinic will be able to see TMH and one of the SNDC’s co-leads, said for much needed equipment since 1990. the clinic has already seen more than 40 approximately 16 to 20 patients each week. establishing a single space where patients and patients since opening its doors in late April. Most recently, the auxiliary provided: medical experts across different disciplines Dr. Hendriks, meanwhile, has been appointed can come together represents a significant Dr. Hendriks said the clinic will also play a as one of two co-chairs of a newly-formed $45,000 16 step forward for patients and their families. role in providing much-needed guidance and committee tasked with providing oversight 17 for the purchase of 2 pieces of equipment for support to patients suffering from this disease, into the ongoing clinical investigation into the “We believe we are well positioned now COVID-19 related needs, as well as as well as their loved ones. illness of unknown cause. with this clinic to help restore some dignity to all patients who have been suffering in With the support of the Vitalite Health This oversight committee will consist of six $85,000 silence with neurodegenerative disease,” Dr. Network, New Brunswick Public Health neurologists, a representative from New for a new echocardiogram for Cardiac MacDonald said. “It will support caregivers and the Department of Health, he said this Brunswick Public Health, and will be co-chaired Diagnostics. and help focus the public’s and our colleagues’ massive effort is a great example of a true by Dr. Hendriks and Vitalité’s Dr. Natalie Banville. This helps to illustrate the critical function and attention on the exciting science that is partnership, and the level of communication The committee will be responsible for executing vital role hospital auxiliaries play in supporting happening in the field and – eventually and collaboration that exists between Horizon a review of the case files of affected patients, our health care system. effective treatments in the near future.” and its health care partners. while providing second opinions on the From left: Dr. Jeff Moore, internal medicine physician at Horizon’s Dr. Everett Chalmers Regional Hospital, along These are just a few of the exciting purchases By offering a more streamlined, team-oriented “On the clinical side, we now have a location identified cases, ensuring due diligence in with Brad Chapman, medical sonographer and Florence Murchison, past president of the Dr. Everett Chalmers made in recent years, which helps illustrate approach, he believes the central clinic will where those patients can be referred for the process and ruling out potential causes, Regional Hospital Auxiliary are shown with a new echocardiogram which was purchased for the hospital by the the critical function and vital role hospital help lead to earlier intervention and diagnosis, further evaluation and investigation which will among various other functions. auxiliary earlier this year. The DECRH auxiliary is marking its 130th anniversary in 2021. auxiliaries play in supporting our health care system. With roots in the Fredericton area going back other initiatives – the auxiliary has raised It’s clear the auxiliary – led by a 12-member to the days when Boss Gibson’s cotton empire countless dollars for the purchase of important Board of Directors, as well as a business was a thriving industrial concern along the pieces of new hospital equipment, capital manager – takes a great amount of pride in its Nashwaak River and when the city’s landmark upgrades, patient comfort purchases and history and honours its role in helping sustain city hall was just a few years old, the Dr. education programming. and enhance the delivery of quality patient Everett Chalmers Regional Hospital (DECRH) The most notable of these, perhaps, is the services and care in the Fredericton area. Auxiliary has long played a vital role in $600,000 contribution for the development championing the advancement of health care For more information on the Dr. Everett of the 150-seat teaching theatre located in the services in the capital region over its storied Chalmers Regional Hospital Auxiliary, please new wing of the hospital – officially known history. visit horizonnb.ca/home/ways-to-give.aspx The DECRH auxiliary is the oldest continually- operating organization of its kind in Canada, with its dedicated core of volunteers working tirelessly to raise funds for local health care initiatives since 1891, the year the organization ratified its formal constitution. This year, the auxiliary is celebrating – and reflecting on – 130 years of service to the community. The volunteer-led organization has gone by its current name since the construction of the DECRH in 1976, and their presence within the hospital community is just as essential now as it was back then.

Registered Nurse Dollie Brooks is shown with Dr. Jason MacDonald at the new Special Neurodegenerative Disorder Clinic located at Horizon’s The Moncton Hospital. The Through their operation of the hospital’s gift clinic will provide early interventions and diagnosis to dozens of New Brunswick patients suffering from a neurodegenerative disease of unknown origin. shop, coffee shop and hair salon – among Horizon’s Nursing Council: Supporting quality nursing practice for over a decade SOCIAL SHOUT-OUT More than 10 years ago, Horizon’s Nursing Council was developed to provide leadership On Horizon’s social media platforms, we’ve heard from many of your patients, clients and families and direction on the nursing governance about the professional, safe and quality care you provide. structure throughout our network. In this recurring feature, we’ll highlight some of these “social shout-outs.” Since its inception, the council has adapted to If you see a social shout-out, tell us about it by emailing [email protected]. meet operational needs and improve patient and family centered care, while also engaging nurses throughout Horizon in a meaningful way, which is providing opportunity for them Andy Campbell Em to create change through advocacy. @fredcityandy @penpencilbrush “After creating the nursing professional governance structure, we now receive and Vaxxed. Tip of the cap to @HorizonHealthNB team and the Had to go to the hospital for a bit yesterday, just a regular ratify reports and recommendations from many volunteers running Brookside Mall clinic. Efficient. All checkup visit. Very impressed with @HorizonHealthNB nursing governance committees and provide business, yet friendly. Booked appointment online in 10-15 protocols. to the folks at St. Joe’s! No one likes hospital feedback and direction,” explained Jackie mins. In and out of clinic in about 30. Well done. appointments & these days it’s a bit more fraught. Gordon, Horizon’s Regional Director of Nursing Practice. 12:25 PM · May 6, 2021 2 Retweets 2 Quote Tweets 115 Likes Since 2010, the work happening within the Em structure is transforming the nursing practice. @penpencilbrush The council advocates Ken Brien And the familiar is made different, which also adds to the 18 for the appropriate use @KenBrien1 concerns. Masks. Arrows. Elevators. 2 m distancing. (I haven’t 19 been in an elevator in over a year, what’s best practice there? Members of Horizon’s Nursing Council. Just got my first shot of Astra Zeneca vaccine! of information systems 4.) It all proceeded smoothly and comfortable, everyone was and technology to support and grow in their roles by participating in practice coordinators, a community director pleasant. several regional and provincial clinical and representative, clinical program director, 10:48 AM · Apr7, 2021 nursing practice. They have professional committees. nurse manager representatives, inpatient, ambulatory, community mental health Ken Brien 1 Like also established nursing “Because we have a very active council, there and public health representatives, licensed @KenBrien1 has been increased interest year-to-year when workforce planning practical nurses and an educator. initiatives focused on a call for interest goes out for recruitment of Vaccination clinic was in Woodstock, very smooth, well organized Elizabeth Kearns council members,” Jackie said. “The nursing council provides a forum event by @HorizonHealthNB. Thank you! @mrstmak for central collaboration of nurses across recruitment and retention. There is a strong liaison between the council the organization, ensuring strategic and 9:25 PM · Apr 20, 2021 Three cheers for the team at @HorizonHealthNB Beyond impactful advice and support around with universities and community colleges, operational direction that fosters an 2 Likes Woodbridge Centre for a wonderful physio visit today (for nursing regulation, the council focus on topics which has allowed for clear communication in environment that is supportive of excellence subjects impact health care in our province, regard to nursing programs. daughter)! Who knew a physio assessment could be so much such as the medication distribution system, in nursing practice, quality, education, and fun!?! medical cannabis, patient and family centered Horizon’s nursing council is a diverse group positive patient outcomes,” Jackie said. of nursing professionals, which allows Julie McBrien care and Horizon’s nursing orientation program. To see who makes up Horizon’s current for various perspectives. Representation Excellent experience yesterday getting my vaccine at Exhibition nursing council and to learn more, visit the Council members are provided with includes the chief nursing officer, regional Nursing Practice Skyline page. Park! Kudos to Horizon Health Network! Thank u nurse Trish opportunities to expand their knowledge director of nursing practice, nursing Mc – skilled, professional and informative! 9:25 AM · 20 avril 2021 2 Likes Resources available to support patients who are Deaf or hard-of-hearing Horizon’s Audiology department recently “We’re committed to enhancing the care is compulsory for frontline and management launched its new and improved Access to we provide to our Deaf or hard-of-hearing staff working in areas identified as having a Communication program for patients who are patients, and part of this is educating staff higher probability for receiving this patient Deaf or hard-of-hearing as part of Speech and about available communication services, population. Hearing Month, which took place in May. assistive equipment and techniques and Marchell Visit the Access to Communication Skyline ensuring our Deaf or hard-of-hearing patients @MarchellC The goals of the program, which was re- page for more information about the program are aware of and have access to these services developed based on feedback from staff, and staff resources. Replying to @mrstmak and @HorizonHealthNB and equipment if required,” said Gary Foley, patients, families and stakeholders in a Vice President Professional Services. Right?! The team at Woodbridge Centre is department-led 2019 online survey, are to provide Horizon staff with the resources Education regarding techniques, services 1:50 PM · May 6, 2021 they need to comfortably communicate with and assistive equipment is available to all 2 Likes this patient population and to enhance the Horizon staff through the updated Access to provision of care for our Deaf or hard-of- Communication: Serving People Who are Deaf Join the conversation! Follow us on hearing patients and their families. or Hard-of-Hearing e-Learning program, which How Horizon’s Nurse Practitioners adapted their practice during the COVID-19 pandemic Nurse Practitioners (NPs) are registered nurses who have Horizon employs over 80 nurse practitioners who play a completed a nurse practitioner program in primary health critical role in our health care system, particularly during the care and have advanced knowledge, skills and clinical challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic. expertise. They are trained to diagnose and treat illnesses, Throughout the pandemic, Horizon’s nurse practitioners order and interpret tests, and prescribe medications, remained on the frontlines, constantly adapting their treatments and . practices to continue providing the best patient care.

Three Horizon NPs from various health care settings shared how the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted their roles and the health care journeys of their patients.

Workplace violence is more Accreditation Canada has adopted the following common in health care definition of workplace violence: settings than many other “Incidents in which a person is threatened, abused workplaces, with one-quarter or assaulted in circumstances related to their 20 21 of all incidents of workplace work, including all forms of harassment, bullying, violence occurring at health intimidation, physical threats, or assaults, robbery services organizations. It is Christopher Scalabrin, Nurse Practitioner at Trina Cluney, Nurse Practitioner at Horizon’s Megan Merritt, Horizon Nurse Practitioner or other intrusive behaviours. These behaviours Horizon’s Campobello Island Health Centre Fredericton Downtown Community Health at the Drew Nursing Home in Sackville, cares an issue that affects staff and provides primary care to the residents of Centre, Pilick (Kingsclear First Nations) Health for nursing home residents by providing Campobello Island. What he enjoys most Centre and Sitansisk (Saint Mary’s First Nations) them with diagnoses, treatments, dementia could originate from customers or co-workers, at about being an NP is helping people. Health Centre provides primary health care management assistance and palliative care. health providers across the to first nations community members in the Since there is no year-round ferry service on Megan says she feels at home while working any level of the organization. Fredericton Area. She is also a member of the health care continuum. Campobello Island, Christopher often needs to in the nursing home setting. ” Wolastoqiyik Wampum CISM crisis response drive through the state of Maine twice a day to team in the first nations communities in this area. “I enjoy advocating for the residents, and get to work. During the COVID-19 pandemic, promoting independence, respect and holistic Too often our staff experience Tools & Resources he has had to cross international borders as What Trina loves most about being an NP is care,” said Megan. “Nothing makes me happier many as four times a day. connecting with her patients. Horizon’s Workplace Violence Prevention Program (WVPP) has tools to than to see the residents smiling and engaged.” workplace violence; this is not “I need to register with the province for a “I love being with my people and feeling like support staff to Anticipate, Respond and Report incidents of workplace “The pandemic has been very challenging travel permit, and fill out the ArriveCAN App I’m making a difference in their lives by helping for everyone,” said Megan. “Though we have acceptable. violence. These resources can be found on the Workplace Violence on my phone for the Federal Government them achieve their health goals,” said Trina. kept our residents safe from COVID-19 by twice a day,” said Christopher. Prevention Program Skyline page. As care at Horizon’s health centres shifted restricting visitation in the home, this has “This is also the case for the residents of to become more virtual at the beginning of also caused suffering among the residents. Let’s work together and We encourage staff to use the tools and training provided through the Campobello who need to access Maine for the pandemic, her team was able to make It is very difficult to meet their social and WVPP to understand how to Anticipate, Respond and Report incidences gasoline and groceries, or pass through accommodations during this time to continue emotional needs when family and friends are support each other to ensure Maine to access medical services,” explains serving patients. not able to visit on a regular basis. Sadly, some of workplace violence. We all have a role to play to help reduce the risk Christopher. “They are also faced with residents have had to go through their end of “We focused on providing education and a safe, healthy environment of workplace violence. additional questions, and at times isolation, life process without family by their side. We information on COVID-19 to the community,” because they are residents of Campobello.” are all eager to get back to ‘normal’.” said Trina. “We were able to adapt our services for our employees, patients, We also have resources available, through Employee Health and the during this time by providing telephone care and Employee Family Assistance Program (EFAP) to support staff if, when or virtual visits until the clinics were able to re-open.” clients and their families. after a workplace violence incident occurs. Nurse Practitioners work independently in a collaborative environment with other health care professionals, providing primary health care in a variety of settings: • Emergency Departments/Urgent Care Centres • Community health centres • Health centres • Schools • Nursing homes • Sexual health centres • Addiction treatment centres • Mental health centres • First Nations communities Horizon celebrates employees marking milestone Horizon is honoured to receive the Years of Service and Retirement 2020 Legacy Award May was Recognition Month at Horizon, and although Horizon also recognized this year’s 388 retirees with a it looked different again this year, there was still a lot of Retirement Celebration Package, which included a gift from NB Power’s Energy Efficiency celebrating going on! chosen by each retiree, a printed biography prepared by Excellence Awards! Last month Horizon proudly recognized over 2,200 employees their leader, a restaurant gift card to enjoy a meal in lieu with milestone Years of Service pendants representing their of the traditional in-person retiree luncheon, and a unique Horizon’s Energy Network works every day to ensure our facilities are managed efficiently, five- to 50-year careers with Horizon. We look forward to yearbook (English only) created especially for this year’s and most importantly, in an environmentally conscience way. celebration package. seeing our employees wear their pendants with pride! Since 2013 we’ve implemented over 150 projects and energy solutions. Congratulations to all! This has resulted in approximately 150M kilowatt hours in savings, and a reduction of 35,000 equivalent tonnes in emission reductions. Some of our YOS Recipients! This is equivalent to planting 190,000 trees or taking 7,300 cars off the road! There are three components to successful and sustainable energy management - people, technology, SAINT JOHN AREA and information – and Horizon is fortunate to have all three. Congratulations! 22 To learn more, watch this video. 23

40 Years 40 Years 30 Years 30 Years Ann Boyce, Radiation Therapist, Teresa Gray, RN, Horizon’s St. Joseph’s Hospital (St. Joe’s) with Rose McKenna, Quality Consultant, Janet Soper, Radiation Horizon’s Saint John Regional her manager Karla Price, RN. SJRH, with her manager Alice Damon. Therapist, SJRH with her Hospital (SJRH), with her manager Randal McKnight, manager Randal McKnight, Radiation Therapist. Radiation Therapist.

25, 20 and 10 Years 15 Years 15 Years Charlotte County Hospital’s Melanie McCullough, Angela Gullison, LPN, St. Joe’s, with her manager Terilynn Mitchell, RN, SJRH with her manager Karla Pharmacy Assistant (25 Years), Kelly MacLean (20 Karla Price, RN. Price, RN. Years) and Sandra Thorpe, Pharmacist (10 Years). FREDERICTON AND UPPER RIVER VALLEY AREA MIRAMICHI AREA Leading One Horizon: Congratulations to the class of 2021! Dr. Niaz Khan, Psychiatrist, A virtual graduation ceremony was held on and university graduation photos of their Horizon’s Miramichi June 15 to celebrate the second graduating fellow classmates. Elizabeth Doyle, Director of Regional Hospital class of Leading One Horizon, a program that Performance Optimization at Horizon’s The (MRH) with Dr. Sanjay Siddartha, supports Horizon managers in developing a Moncton Hospital, delivered the valedictory Psychiatrist more solid grounding in core management address on behalf of the class. competencies focusing on four components; Leading One Horizon is recognized by the You as a Leader, Leading People, Managing the Canadian College of Health Leaders. Horizon 40 Years 35 Years 30 Years 10 Years 20 Years Work of the Department, and Moving Forward, employees who complete the Leading One Janice Edwards, Surgical Access Manager Dan Keenan, Chief Financial Vanessa Pugh, RN, DECRH as well as providing them with networking and Kerry Kennedy, at Horizon’s Dr. Everett Chalmers Regional Officer, Corporate Office with Horizon program receive credits towards Manager of collaborative learning opportunities. Hospital( DECRH (45 years) and Kathy Coughlan, Horizon President & CEO Karen the nationally recognized LEADS in a Caring Recruitment Acute Pain Nurse, DECRH (35 years) McGrath The online ceremony, which was also attended Environment certification. Congratulations to & Workforce by Horizon’s President and CEO, Karen the Class of 2021! Planning, MRH of learning in a virtual classroom due to McGrath, members of Horizon’s Executive wit Maura COVID-19 gathering restrictions. Click here to view the group’s official yearbook Leadership Team, and their managers or McKinnon, photo, and here to view a map that shows how directors, acknowledged the 43 graduates for Donning golden graduation caps, each Horizon’s Chief far-reaching their learnings will have across their hard work and commitment over the participant received individual recognition and Human Resources the organization. 20 Years Officer last 10 months as they completed 75 hours were entertained by throw-back high school Psssst. Hey, you! Yes, you. Did you know Horizon has a new Strategic Plan?

is our plan for how we want to improve Building a Healthier FutureOUR MISSION LIVING OUR VALUES the way we provide healthHelping care People services Be Healthy. to our patients,We show clients empathy, and compassion and respect. 24 We strive for excellence. their families, nowOUR and VISION for the next five years!We are all leaders, yet work as a team. 2021-2026 Exceptional Care. Every Person. Every Day. We act with integrity and are accountable. Our strategic priorities:

Efficient and System Wrapped Around Sustainability Appropriate Care Patient/Client Needs

· Reduce wait times throughout · Establish a culture to strengthen · Improve accountability for health the system health equity care service delivery results

· Improve patient/client safety · Excel and grow as a patient/client · Align human resources to achieve and quality of care and family-centred organization our strategic plan

· Coordinate health services · Reduce avoidable hospitalization · Innovate to improve productivity to smooth transitions of care and deliver health care services in · Empower patients, clients and the most cost-effective manner · Provide health care at appropriate providers with options to access locations and times health information and services · Secure clinical and organizational information

Our staff, physicians and volunteers have an important role in helping us achieve Horizon’s strategic plan. If you have ideas on something you can do to benefit our strategic plan, we encourage you to discuss them with your manager. Together – let’s do this!