Right now, Great Ocean Road Health is facing the biggest challenge in history, the fight against the COVID-19 Pandemic. From the urgent care department, aged care, administration, allied health and community support services – our heath service has transformed due to the coronavirus and the fight is far from over.
This year’s COVID-19 Emergency Response Annual Appeal, has been launched to raise funds towards extra services (online), education and training to upskill staff, increase workforce and upgrade facilities/technology and equipment to meet the changing pandemic requirements.
Lorne Community Hospital staff are currently going above and beyond to care for and protect some of the most vulnerable members in the community. However, the true impact of this additional strain on the rural Hospital will continue for some time. As the only hospital on the Surf Coast and to protect our community in Lorne, we not become complacent in regards to this virus.
Over the coming year in order to reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission, there is a real need to implement significant changes at the Lorne Community Hospital. For example, redesigning the physical space in the Hospital waiting rooms; implementing permanent screening stations at each entrance; establishing outside waiting areas, and undertaking infrastructure alterations in areas such as meeting rooms to meet the expected ongoing requirement of physical distancing.
Great Ocean Road Health CEO, Sandy Chamberlin said, “We are continually changing the way we deliver great care to our community during the pandemic. Changes, such as social distancing and temperature testing may be ongoing, especially in the near future.
“Pro-active planning and the willingness of hospital staff to make the extra effort in ensuring preparedness against coronavirus has helped our catchment area be as safe as possible during the global pandemic. Our staff have implemented strict measures to protect our aged care residents, patients and everybody they come in contact with. We continue to reach out to people in their homes, especially to community members who experience social isolation or illness. Unfortunately, the fight against COVID-19 is far from over, and whilst we continue to provide our essential services, it has placed a great deal of pressure on our limited resources,” said Ms Chamberlin.
Today, perhaps more than ever, we need your support. All contributions are valued and appreciated. Every dollar donated will be spent in Lorne at the Lorne Community Hospital.
For many decades the Lorne Community Hospital has directly responded to the contemporary needs of its coastal communities and your donation to this 2020 appeal will help us to continue to be there for you.
Your donation can be made online via our website:
www.greatoceanroadhealth.com.au/support-us/annual-appeal-lch/
Donations of $2 or more are tax deductible; donations received prior to 30th June with receive a receipt of the 2019-20 tax year.
If you have any queries, please contact Katy Kennedy, Fundraising Coordinator on katy.kennedy@gorh.vic.gov.au or 5289-4383.
