“What we observe in the population is always reflected in the hospital about two weeks later,” explains Christine Laprise, executive director of the Montmagny–L’Islet local service network. According to Quebec Public Health, the COVID-19 positivity rate in the region is increasing and remains higher than the Quebec average. Flu activity is also increasing, the positivity rate having increased recently in Chaudière-Appalaches, could reach levels higher than the rest of the province.
Hospitalizations linked to COVID-19 remain under control for the moment, despite an anticipated increase between now and mid-winter season. “We know that the pressure will increase, but we are in a better position than last year,” assures Ms. Laprise. Moreover, the occupancy rate of stretchers has already reached 150% at Montmagny Hospital.
Better coordination at the hospital
For more than three years, Montmagny Hospital has gradually strengthened its coordination center, a tool that allows users to follow their journey in real time, from emergency to discharge. This approach aims to make care more fluid and optimize the use of beds, in a context of an aging population and limited resources.
“During the virus period, we have the same services, but more needs. We have no choice to be more efficient,” summarizes the executive director. Clinical teams now work in a more integrated manner in order to anticipate discharge needs and avoid unnecessarily prolonged stays.
Despite continued fragility in terms of human resources, the local network notes a certain stability compared to last winter. Several employment agency employees have been hired, which makes it possible to better absorb peak periods, even if overtime remains inevitable.
Focus on prevention
Ms. Laprise, however, insists on a key element, namely individual responsibility. “Coming to the emergency room for mild to moderate symptoms is not always the best option. Many situations can be taken care of at home or elsewhere than in a hospital context. Users must take responsibility for their consumption of services,” she says.
Hand washing, wearing a mask if you have symptoms, limiting contact and vaccination against COVID-19 and the flu remain essential actions, particularly to protect vulnerable people.
If in doubt, she emphasizes that the Info-Santé 811 line or pharmacists can provide professional advice. Citizens are also invited to consult their family doctor or the First Line Access Center (GAP) rather than systematically turning to the emergency room. In addition, seeing that the virus period was well established, the Chaudière-Appalaches Integrated Health and Social Services Center (CISSS) asked all Family Medicine Groups (GMF) in Chaudière-Appalaches to increase their availability in order to be able to accommodate patients experiencing flu-like symptoms as well as those who have minor emergencies.
Among the concrete solutions put forward, the local service point, now located on avenue Côté in Motnmagny, deserves to be better known. We offer, by appointment, a wide range of services without waiting: vaccination, screening and samples.
A telling example is the screening for Streptococcus A. “If the test is positive, the nurse can give an antibiotic prescription immediately, without a medical visit being necessary,” explains Ms. Laprise. The center also offers screening for STIs, COVID-19 and influenza, as well as vaccination against several respiratory infections and preventable diseases.
Increased support for seniors
Finally, the local network has strengthened its collaboration with private seniors’ residences, particularly in terms of vaccination and outbreak management. The objective is clear, namely to intervene quickly to avoid a deterioration in the health of residents and limit transfers to hospital.
“Everyone has a role to play. By protecting ourselves and using the right services, we help preserve access to care for those who need it most,” concludes Christine Laprise.
