Niagara Health and Conmed Health Care Group are transitioning out of a voluntary management agreement for Oakwood Park Lodge, effective today.
The hospital has been providing management support to the Niagara Falls long-term care home since December 2020, under a voluntary contract in response to a facility-wide COVID-19 outbreak. The hospital response team worked closely with staff at the home to develop and implement an action plan to strengthen infection prevention and control (IPAC) measures, as well as outbreak management protocols.
The COVID-19 outbreak at Oakwood Park Lodge was declared over on February 11, and there are currently no active cases of the virus among residents or staff.
In coordination with Niagara Region Public Health, Niagara Health and Oakwood Park Lodge moved quickly to vaccinate residents, staff and essential caregivers beginning in January in accordance with Ontario’s immunization priority framework.
“We’re pleased that the situation at Oakwood Park Lodge has stabilized after what has been a difficult time for residents, family members and staff at the home,” said Lynn Guerriero, President and Interim CEO of Niagara Health. “A transition plan is in place to provide a safe and healthy environment for residents and staff at the home into the future.”
Niagara Health will remain in contact with leaders and staff at the home to provide support and guidance as needed.
“Nothing is more important than our responsibility to protect the health of our residents and our team members who care for them,” said Gaile Johnstone, Director of Finance and Operations, Conmed Health Care Group. “We’re thankful to Niagara Health for its leadership and support of our response to the COVID-19 pandemic.”
