Seeking Care over the Holidays: December 2022

For Immediate Release                                                                                                         
December 21, 2022            

Brantford, ON – As the holiday period quickly approaches, Brant Community Healthcare System (BCHS) would like you to know that it is safe to access our facilities and receive care. Please do not delay care if you need it. We're here for you, and are taking every possible precaution to keep patients safe.

 If you require care over the holiday season, please note our available services.

 Emergency Care – Brantford General Hospital Emergency Department

The Emergency Department (ED) at Brantford General Hospital treats patients with serious illness or injuries such as loss of consciousness, chest pain, stroke like symptoms or difficulty breathing.

 The BGH ED is open 24/7, every day of the year. You can check current wait times on our website at https://www.bchsys.org/en/care-services/emergency.aspx#wait-times

 Urgent Care – The Willett Urgent Care Centre in Paris

You should visit the Willett when you have an urgent but non-threatening illness or injury such as sprains, strains, stitches or minor burns. The Willett is open during the holidays the following times:

• December 24 to 25  – 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
• December 26 to 30 – 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
• December 31 and January 1 – 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
• January 2 – 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.

 To check the current wait times at the Willett Urgent Care Centre, please visit our website at https://www.bchsys.org/en/care-services/willett-urgent-care-centre.aspx.

 COVID, Cough, Flu Care Clinic (CCFCC) and COVID testing – the CCFCC provides an alternative to the ED or urgent care for patients experiencing viral symptoms, who may qualify for antiviral treatment. The CCFCC is right for you if:

• You (or your child) are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19, strep, bronchitis, pneumonia, ear infection, cold or flu, sinus infection, vomiting, or diarrhea.
• You have been unable to book an appointment with your primary care provider, or you have been referred to this clinic by a healthcare provider.
• You are unable to safely monitor your symptoms at home.

 The CCFCC will also continue to provide COVID-19 testing for eligible persons. Visit the BCHS website for this criteria https://www.bchsys.org/covid-testing/.

 The CCFCC operates in two locations:

 Brantford Brant – in conjunction with the Willett Urgent Care Centre.

Holiday hours:

• December 24 – 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
• December 25 – closed
• December 26 – 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
• December 31 – 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
• January 1 – closed

 There will be a physician on-site at the CCFCC from 1:00 – 3:00 p.m. on December 24, 26, and 31.

Other than the above date and times, the Brantford Brant CCFCC is open 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. 7 days a week, closed between 12:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m. each day.

 Appointment only and walk-ins are not accepted. To book an appointment visit the 24/7 online self-booking tool: https://www.bchsys.org/en/covid-19-online-scheduling.aspx, email Covid.assessment@bchsys.org with your name and telephone number, or by calling the hotline at (519) 751-5818, available Monday-Friday 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

 Norfolk – at Delhi Medical Centre (Basement) 105 Main St., Delhi

Holiday hours:

• December 24-26 – closed
• December 27 – 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
• December 28 – 12:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
• December 29-30 – 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
• December 31 – closed
• January 1 - closed

 To book an appointment, call 519-582-2323 ext. 232. Online booking here: Clinical Assessment Centre - Norfolk Family Health Team (norfolkfht.ca)

 Wishing everyone a safe and happy holiday season!

 -30-

Media Contact:
BCHS Communications & Public Affairs
Communications@bchsys.org
519-751-5544