Donor Support Launches Virtual Connections Program

On April 8, through a joint effort between all four foundations supporting Lakeridge Health, a new Virtual Connections program launched to bring patients closer to their loved ones while in Hospital. Through the generosity of Durham Region donors our local hospitals are now equipped with over 40 iPads to connect patients with their loved ones.

To better keep our communities safe and reduce possible transmissions of COVID-19, Lakeridge Health has limited visitor access. But through the new Virtual Connections program, patients are better able to connect virtually with their loved ones.

“We know connecting with loved ones is an important part of the healing process and because of that, our team has really rallied together in the face of the COVID-19 challenge,” said Kim Lawn, Director, Patient Experience at Lakeridge Health. “We needed to be nimble and creative. Through a partnership with the Foundations, all Lakeridge Health Emergency Departments (EDs) and all in-patient units have access to an iPad that enable patients to connect with family and friends.”

Working together, the Patient Experience team and Lakeridge Health’s IT department have prepared the iPads collected with software to support the program. Through the Virtual Connections program, an IT team member and clinical team member work together to connect the patient with their loved ones through the mobile device.

“Especially now, when all team members wear masks, it is extra meaningful to see a familiar smile. This joint effort between our departments and the support from our community is incredible. The Virtual Connections program is a tangible example of the innovation that emerges when we collaborate during challenging times."

An instrumental member of the Lakeridge Health team, Kim has supported our community in her role with Patient Experience for nearly three years. Her dedication to customer service and knowledge of clinical care as a Registered Nurse means she truly understands the importance of engaging with patients and families during their health care journey.

“It means so much to me that we are able to help. Being able to talk with your loved ones about your health journey can help reduce stress and anxiety and help patients make sense of everything happening. This is especially true for our patients whose first language is not English. It can be empowering to hear your native tongue and to express yourself comfortably. Being able to see facial expressions and speak with a loved one, that is an important part of healing and connection for all us.”

The Virtual Connections program launched on April 8, 2020. Anyone looking to connect with a loved one at any site of Lakeridge Health across the Durham Region can begin by visiting Lakeridge Health online for more information and then by calling 905 433 4429

The Durham Fights COVID-19 joint effort to help all Lakeridge Health sites across the Durham Region is supported by the Ajax Pickering Hospital Foundation, the Bowmanville Hospital Foundation, the Lakeridge Health Foundation and the Port Perry Hospital Foundation. Funds raised through www.durhamfightscovid19.ca support resources that will improve patient experience, like the Virtual Connections Program, medical equipment, and care items for our front line staff.