Carpenter Hospice to suspend services and to depart Joseph Brant Hospital by March 31

On March 16, the federal government announced additional measures to help contain the spread of COVID-19 and protect the public.

In support of these measures, Carpenter Hospice has decided to end its temporary occupancy at Joseph Brant Hospital, opening up space for an additional 22 acute inpatient beds for emergency care.

“It’s really about the greater good of the community” says Karen Candy, Executive Director of Carpenter Hospice “COVID-19 has put a strain on our health care system and hospitals.  We need to be part of the community’s response and allocation of resources, understanding the unit we are on is a key component to Joseph Brant Hospital’s pandemic response plan. A move now, will ensure Joseph Brant Hospital has the space needed to provide critical care to the most vulnerable populations if the need arises”

In September, Carpenter Hospice took up temporary occupancy at Joseph Brant Hospital following a sprinkler system malfunction that led to a catastrophic flood at their facility on 2250 Parkway Drive. “As one of the two healthcare pillars in Burlington we are committed to supporting the community during the current COVID-19 outbreak” says Candy.

“Today we have implemented a plan to ensure our staff and residents have the resources they need to help with this transition. The care and well being of all our stakeholders was at the forefront of our decision and we thank the community for their support as we help work towards leaving JBH by March 31, 2020.” shares Candy.

“We will continue to support the Carpenter Hospice through this transition as best we can” says Eric Vandewall, President & CEO of Joseph Brant Hospital. “As we work through the logistics of the move, the safety and wellbeing of hospice clients is of paramount concern to all of us. If care is needed during the transition, we are prepared to provide it”.

On behalf of the Burlington and area community,  “I would like to extend my sincere thanks to Carpenter Hospice for their leadership in taking this difficult decision, during these unprecedented times” said Eric Vandewall.

Carpenter Hospice has been preparing for the possibility of impacted service delivery as part of their pandemic planning and have made arrangements to ensure the continuity of care for our remaining residents. “Joseph Brant Hospital was there for us in our time of need. Now it’s time to return the favour”.