GBGH Welcomes New Ophthalmologist

Georgian Bay General Hospital (GBGH) is excited to welcome Dr Saqib A K Utman, an Ophthalmologist, to the Georgian Bay community. With extensive experience in comprehensive ophthalmology and glaucoma care, Dr. Utman has trained at renowned institutions, including Moorfields Eye Hospital in London and the University of Toronto. He was a Fellow of the European Board of Ophthalmology and a member of the UK and Eire Glaucoma Society, the European Glaucoma Society, and the International Society of Glaucoma Surgery. Dr. Utman also served on the editorial boards of multiple ophthalmology journals and played an active role in clinical research and education.

“We are thrilled to have Dr. Utman join our team,” said Dr. Vikram Ralhan, Chief of Staff at GBGH. “His expertise will greatly enhance access to specialized eye care for patients in our community.”

Dr. Utman’s addition to the medical staff strengthens the GBGH’s commitment to providing high-quality eye care services. His arrival is particularly significant as the demand for ophthalmology services continues to grow in the communities GBGH serves.

“Having Dr. Utman at GBGH allows us to expand surgical and clinical ophthalmology services for our patients,” said Dr. Bonnie Shum, Chief of Surgery at GBGH. “We are confident that his skills and dedication will be a tremendous asset to our surgical team.”

Referrals to Dr. Utman can be made through your family physician or through your Optometrist.

Contact:
Derek Desroches
Communications Specialist
705-526-1300 ext 5016
desrochesd@gbgh.on.ca

GBGH Marks Major Milestone with MRI Delivery

The new MRI machine being craned into the new MRI addition at Georgian Bay General Hospital.

January 20, 2025 – Georgian Bay General Hospital (GBGH) celebrated a monumental moment in the journey to enhance patient care: the delivery of the long-anticipated MRI machine. On Monday, the state-of-the-art equipment was craned into the newly constructed MRI addition, marking a significant step forward for advanced diagnostic services for the communities GBGH serves.

The delivery process, involving a large crane, took place Monday morning and is one of the most exciting milestones of the MRI project. The new MRI machine represents GBGH’s dedication to grow services in line with current and anticipated needs of the community. Once operational, this advanced technology will allow GBGH to provide faster, more accurate diagnoses and improved patient outcomes.

Matthew Lawson, President and CEO of GBGH, shared his excitement: “The delivery of our MRI machine brings us one step closer to the day when we can provide MRIs right here in our hospital. This is an exciting time for our community, and we are grateful for everyone’s support as we approach the start of this important service.”

The delivery is more than a construction update; it’s a community milestone.

“This truly is a gift from our community, for our community,” said Nicole Kraftscik, CEO, GBGH Foundation. “More than 1,750 individuals, businesses and organizations have contributed nearly $4-million to purchase this MRI unit, and invest in the construction to make this possible. We are thrilled to celebrate the arrival of the MRI, and extend our immense gratitude to those who have helped make this possible.”

With the MRI machine now delivered, the final phases of construction are underway. Contractors will seal the access point used for delivery, complete finishing touches such as flooring and painting, and finalize the MRI room. Following this, it will take approximately four weeks to install and prepare the MRI machine. This includes setting up the magnet, connecting cables, bolting the magnet into place, and conducting extensive testing to ensure the system is fully operational. Once ready, training and application processes will begin, culminating in welcoming the first GBGH MRI patient!

For anyone interested in making a gift to help close the fundraising for the MRI, and have their impact doubled by FDC Foundation, visit: https://gbghf.ca/mri-match/

Contact:
Derek Desroches
Communications Specialist
705-526-1300 ext 5016
desrochesd@gbgh.on.ca

New Online Booking Now Available for X-Ray Appointments

January 10, 2025 – Georgian Bay General Hospital (GBGH) is excited to announce that patients can now book X-ray appointments directly through the GBGH website. This new feature has been introduced in response to a significant increase in demand, ensuring timely and convenient access to diagnostic imaging services.

“We understand the importance of providing efficient and accessible healthcare services to our community,” said Erin Kominek, Manager of Diagnostic Imaging at GBGH. “By offering online booking for X-ray appointments, we’re taking a major step toward streamlining the process and reducing wait times for our patients.”

To book an X-ray appointment, patients can visit this link: https://gbgh.on.ca/programs-and-services/diagnostic-imaging/ and follow the simple step-by-step process. The online form is user-friendly and allows patients to select a time that best fits their schedule, making it easier than ever to access the care they need.

This initiative is part of GBGH’s ongoing commitment to enhancing patient care and experience. By leveraging technology, GBGH aims to meet the evolving needs of the community and ensure everyone has access to timely medical imaging. While walk-in appointments are still available, booking online is strongly encouraged for your convenience and to secure your spot.

Contact:
Derek Desroches
Communications Specialist
705-526-1300 ext 5016
desrochesd@gbgh.on.ca

GBGH’s first baby of 2025 has arrived!

GBGH proudly welcomed its first baby of 2025 on January 1, 2025 at 7:15 p.m. Daisy Judith Puetz, a healthy baby girl, weighed 7 pounds, 4 ounces. Parents Rebecca and Devon Puetz of Midland, along with big brother Dexter, are thrilled with the new addition. Both mom and baby are resting comfortably.

Progress Continues on GBGH MRI Addition

GBGH staff recently did a walk-through of the new MRI addition (L-R) Aly Wang, GBGH Project Manager, Angela Puddicombe, GBGH Facilities Supervisor, Leesa Schoenmaker, GBGH Project Manager, Chris Wirsching, GBGH Facilities Electrician and Matthew Lawson, GBGH President and CEO.

Georgian Bay General Hospital (GBGH) is making great progress on the addition to its existing building, which will house the much-anticipated Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) machine. This expansion represents a significant milestone in advancing healthcare services for the communities GBGH serves.

“As we near the end of 2024, it is incredible to reflect on the progress we’ve made throughout the year,” says Matthew Lawson, GBGH President and CEO. “With equipment arrival expected early in the New Year, we are excited to begin operating the MRI suite and scanning our first patient in early 2025.”

Construction progress has steadily continued, with several key milestones achieved. The lower level’s exterior brickwork is now 100% complete, and the upper level’s exterior insulation has been finalized. Siding for the upper level is currently being fabricated and will be installed soon. The MRI room’s radiofrequency shielding has been installed and thoroughly tested, with an alarm system in place to monitor its integrity. All window frames have been installed, and framing throughout the building is fully complete. Drywall installation has started on both the upper and lower levels, shaping the interior spaces. Additionally, a new entrance connecting the addition to the existing building has been opened. To support Phase 2 of construction, which includes expanding the waiting room and creating a new hallway, the Diagnostic Imaging waiting area has been temporarily relocated.

The GBGH Foundation is closer than ever to completing the $4-million fundraising campaign for an MRI, thanks to a match gift from FDC Foundation. This private family foundation will match all donations to the MRI Fund up to a total of $550,000. Since April 2023, businesses, organizations, and individuals have raised more than $3 million to bring MRI technology to GBGH. This latest match gift is expected to be the final push, with fundraising efforts anticipated to conclude by the end of January 2025.

“Our community has been so supportive of the MRI campaign, and we are so grateful to every person who has invested in this project to date,” says Jen Russell, Director of Communications and Engagement, GBGH Foundation. “FDC Foundation’s generous match gift means that all donations to the MRI Fund going forward will have double the impact. We are almost there, and we hope everyone will join us in achieving the funding goal for this important project.”

For monthly time-lapse videos showcasing construction progress, visit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y4tD_HC0Ja0

To learn more about the MRI project or to make a donation, please visit: https://gbghf.ca/current-needs/mri/

Contact:
Derek Desroches
Communications Specialist
705-526-1300 ext 5016
desrochesd@gbgh.on.ca

GBGH Board of Directors seeking applicants

December 2, 2024 – Guided by our purpose statement of We Make Excellent Care Personal, Georgian Bay General Hospital (GBGH) is committed to providing excellent care to the residents of the broader North Simcoe region. Led by a passionate and committed Board, an outstanding Leadership Team, 750+ employees, professional staff complement of 200+, and 100+ volunteers, the organization has launched an ambitious 7-year strategic plan, designed to meet the health care needs of a rapidly growing population. GBGH is guided by the strategic pillars of Continual Excellence, Trust and Belonging, Dedicated Team and Sustainable Growth.

GBGH is seeking applicants to fill vacant Board of Director roles. The Board is skills-based, volunteer board, providing an excellent opportunity for community members to contribute to and shape the future of healthcare delivery in North Simcoe while playing an important governance oversight role.

The GBGH Board of Directors welcomes applications from individuals with varying experiences and expertise areas but has identified that the following three areas are areas of particular interest:
– Government Relations/Public Policy
– Information Technology/Cyber Security
– Capital Redevelopment & Large Scale Capital project

“We’re thrilled to begin the search for new community members to join the GBGH Board of Directors. The current vacancies present an excellent opportunity to further the expertise of the Board, as well as welcome new ideas and experiences.” – Bernie Uhlich, GBGH Board Chair

The GBGH Board of Directors has a strong desire to have our Board closely reflect the diverse populations served by the hospital. We invite applications from all genders, all races and ethnicities, people of all abilities, Indigenous peoples, LGBTQ2S+ persons and bilingual or multilingual individuals. We are committed to providing all applicants with equal opportunities.

For more information, visit www.gbgh.on.ca/board-of-directors

GBGH Brings Back Masks as Cold and Flu Season Ramps Up

In response to the continued rise in cases of influenza, RSV, and COVID-19, Georgian Bay General Hospital (GBGH) is updating its masking policy to help limit the spread of these respiratory illnesses during the upcoming months.

Beginning Wednesday, November 6, everyone will be required to wear masks in patient rooms and treatment areas. This will apply to patients, visitors and all GBGH staff.

Masks will not be mandatory in hallways, waiting rooms, or public areas but are highly encouraged to reduce the spread of upper respiratory illness.

Visitors experiencing any symptoms of illness are asked to delay their visit until they are fully recovered.

“Our primary focus is ensuring a safe environment for our patients, their loved ones, and our healthcare team,” said Matthew Lawson, President and CEO. “As respiratory infections surge we’ve carefully considered our proactive approach to masking in order to protect our community. GBGH will continually assess the situation and will adjust our approach as deemed necessary.”

Updates on any changes to the masking policy will be posted on the GBGH website.

GBGH Launches 2024 Annual Influenza Immunization Campaign

Judy Schell (right), manager of Occupational Health & Safety at Georgian Bay General Hospital (GBGH), administers a flu shot to Linda Gravel (left), Vice President of Clinical Services and Chief Nursing Executive at GBGH. The 2024 influenza immunization campaign encourages all staff, professional staff, and volunteers to receive their flu shot to protect patients, themselves, and colleagues during flu season.

Georgian Bay General Hospital (GBGH) recently kicked off its annual influenza immunization campaign, reaffirming its commitment to safeguarding patients, visitors, and team members during the upcoming flu season. The campaign encourages staff, professional staff (physicians, midwives, dentists), and volunteers to receive their flu shot at the hospital to protect patients, themselves, their families, and colleagues.

“Each year, I am continually impressed by the participation from staff, professional staff, and volunteers in our influenza immunization campaign,” says Judy Schell, manager of Occupational Health & Safety at GBGH. “At GBGH, our team is deeply committed to patient safety, and this commitment is reflected in their eagerness to get vaccinated. By getting the flu shot, we’re helping ensure that we stay healthy and ready to provide the excellent, personalized care our patients expect and deserve.”

Ensuring the health and safety of both patients and team members is a top priority at GBGH. By receiving the flu vaccine, staff and volunteers help reduce the risk of transmitting influenza to vulnerable patients while also ensuring they remain healthy to continue providing care.

In addition to flu prevention, GBGH continues its vigilant COVID-19 precautions. All patients and visitors are asked to self-screen for COVID-19 symptoms upon entering the building, as symptoms of COVID-19 can be similar to those of influenza. While masking continues to be optional at GBGH, the hospital is closely monitoring the situation and will adjust safety protocols as necessary. Hand hygiene stations are available at all entrances, including the main and Emergency Department entrances.

As we approach the colder months, GBGH remains focused on keeping its patients and team safe and healthy through a comprehensive approach to flu and respiratory illness prevention.

Georgian Bay General Hospital recognizes Franco-Ontarian Day

Prominent progress on MRI expansion at GBGH, bringing services closer to home

Photo: Liane Netherton, MRI charge technologist at Georgian Bay General Hospital (GBGH), overlooks the early stages of the construction with excitement. Liane says it has been difficult to witness so many patients having to travel such long distances, especially during the winter months, to have their MRI, after already waiting many months for an appointment. Once the MRI is operating GBGH in early 2025, it will reduce patient travel and expense, as well as wait times.

September 11, 2024 – Georgian Bay General Hospital (GBGH) is making dramatic progress constructing an addition to its existing building which will house the future magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) equipment. The expansion of imaging services to include MRI marks a significant milestone in growing healthcare services for the communities GBGH serves.

“Anyone who has visited GBGH in the past two months will notice a drastic and exciting change to the front façade of the building,” says Matthew Lawson, president and CEO, GBGH. “Since breaking ground in late June, we have made significant progress in our MRI project. We anticipate being just a couple months away from having the equipment arrive and then, just a few more months after that, we will be able to scan our first patient at GBGH in early 2025.”

MRI services at GBGH will enhance the overall patient experience, improve health outcomes, and reduce wait times as local patients will not be on the waitlists at other facilities in Barrie and Orillia. The hospital has been funded to operate the MRI for 2,000 hours annually, meaning approximately 2,000 patients will have an opportunity to receive this diagnostic procedure locally.

Some of the construction milestones reached to date include setting up the site, excavation, fortifying the foundation and footings, connecting plumbing, and pouring concrete for the columns and the slab. Next steps in construction include exterior framing (walls/windows), roof supports and drainage system installation, exterior doors and windows, interior framing and drywall, and mechanical/electrical rough-ins.

With a total investment of over $8 million, this groundbreaking project underscores GBGH’s commitment to providing more services closer to home. The GBGH Foundation has been fundraising for the MRI over the past 21 months with the goal of raising $4 million toward the project. The fundraising tally currently sits at $2.92 million.

“This incredible progress at GBGH is a testament to the hundreds of donors who have invested to make this project a reality,” says Nicole Kraftscik, CEO, GBGH Foundation. “And, we continue to work with our community to fundraise the remaining $1 million so that thousands of patients can receive this vital diagnostic service close to home.”

To see monthly time lapse video showcasing the construction progress, visit – https://gbgh.on.ca/programs-and-services/diagnostic-imaging/magnetic-resonance-imaging-mri/

For more information about the MRI project or to make a donation, please visit: https://gbghf.ca/current-needs/mri/

Contact:

Jennifer Moore

Director, Communications and Community Relations

Georgian Bay General Hospital

705-526-1300 ext. 5177

moorejen@gbgh.on.ca