Message from our CEO Leighton McDonald
November 9, 2022
To Our Clients, Families and Caregivers,
Over the past two winters we dealt with significant levels of COVID-19 in our communities, but overall,
there were fewer other viruses circulating. This fall and winter are going to be quite different with high
amounts of COVID-19, flu, colds, and other viruses circulating in our communities. We will all need to
continue to take active steps to reduce the impact of illness in our own lives and in our communities. In
home care we are often providing care to individuals who are vulnerable to becoming very sick from an
infectious illness. CTG needs your help so we can safely deliver high quality care to all our clients.
Be honest with us
A CTG team member will be asking you a series of screening questions the day before your visit and
again at the time of your visit or appointment. It is critical that you answer all the questions honestly as
it will help us keep everyone safe. Be assured that regardless of the screening results, you will receive
the care you need but we may need to take additional precautions for your safety and the safety of
others.
Wear a mask
Wearing a mask is a simple way to protect yourself and others. Your CTG health care provider will be
wearing a mask during all visits with you, and they will use other personal protective equipment as
needed. All our clients, whether seen in a home, a school or a clinic, are asked to wear a mask when
receiving care. If you do not have a mask, one will be provided to you. Similarly, if caregivers must be
present and close by during a visit, they will be asked to wear a mask or face covering. Other individuals
in the home are asked to maintain a 2 metre (6 feet) physical distance from the CTG provider unless
they are an essential part of the care.
Get your vaccines
I am happy to share that 99% of all CTG team members have received their COVID vaccine primary
series. I can also assure you that CTG team members self-screen for any symptoms of infectious illness
before starting work every day, and they are strongly encouraged to get their flu shot every year.
COVID-19 boosters and the flu shot significantly reduce the severity of symptoms you will experience. I
encourage you to take all vaccines that you are eligible for – COVID-19 boosters, flu shot and if you are
older, shingles and pneumococcal vaccines.
Wash your hands
CTG team members will clean their hands frequently for your safety and we ask that you do the same.
Such an easy action, so much impact.
Clear the snow and ice
Every year, a number of CTG team members sustain serious injuries from slipping and falling due to
uncleared snow or ice. Please keep your driveway, walkways, steps, and porch free of snow and ice on
the days our team members are coming to your home. These are preventable accidents, and we ask you
to take responsibility for the safety of your property. If you are unable to clear the snow and ice and do
not have a family member, friend or neighbour who can help, reach out to your local CTG office as they
may know of a community service that provides this service.
CTG prides itself on being a Team Made for Caring and our team includes you. Together we can continue
to ensure you safely receive the high-quality care you deserve, and our team members remain safe. If
you have any questions or would like more information, please feel free to reach out to us.
Sincerely,
Leighton McDonald
President & Chief Executive Officer
Closing the Gap Healthcare
