On Tuesday, B.C.’s Minister of Health Adrian Dix announced investments to support safe and appropriate visits in the province’s 680 long-term care and assisted living residences. Changes to the visitation policy presented by Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry follows an earlier public call by BC Care Providers Association (BCCPA) and EngAge BC to allow family visits. On June 17th, a letter was sent to Dr. Henry outlining our three-point plan for family visitation.
The announcement resulted in unprecedented media interest in BCCPA’s reaction from outlets all around B.C. Our Acting CEO Mike Klassen appeared in over 20 interviews with major media outlets representing all regions across the province to discuss the ongoing challenges of keeping those living and working in long-term care safe as restrictions on visits are eased. Coverage included a front-page “above the fold” report by columnist Daphne Bramham quoting Klassen (seen above).
As the new family visitation policy is implemented, BCCPA/EngAge BC will continue to work with our members and government partners to ensure that residents, family members and staff are all kept safe.
Looking forward to this! Thousands of others are too. 106 days is a long time for residents of longterm care to not have their families to hug. https://t.co/UwprspjpGi
— Jude Hannah 🇺🇦 🇧🇷 (@studiojude) June 30, 2020
https://twitter.com/MikeKlassen/status/1278101950748188678
Below are several print, online, radio and video stories that followed the announcement.
Daphne Bramham: Some relief at last for care home residents and families (Vancouver Sun)
Opening up care homes to visitors (Mornings with Simi – CKNW)
B.C. eases restrictions on visits to long-term care homes (Global News)
Families ‘so relieved’ visits will resume in B.C. long-term care homes (CBC)
Family eagerly waits to visit mother again in Coquitlam care home (News1130)
COVID-19: B.C. long-term care homes to be allowed visitors (Vancouver Sun)
