Resident frustrated with failure to communicate at Kincardine hospital

To the Editor:

May 14, I attempted to reach the Kincardine hospital (South Bruce Grey Health Centre), only to get outdated recordings telling me that we were in a lockdown due to COVID-19 (Coronavirus). The administration was taking calls until noon and would be working at home in the afternoon, and would be until April 19.

Monday morning, May 17, I again made several attempts to contact the hospital, only to hear the same messages and that we were in the mist of a pandemic and if I was sick, to call 9-1-1 or visit the emergency department. I just needed some information.

Frustrated, I phoned the Durham hospital (also part of the South Bruce Grey Health Centre) since that is where I have an appointment June 8 for a “Doppler” scan. Within seconds, Debbie, with a cheerful, real-life voice, answered my call. In less than five minutes, she gave me the information I needed and that included a lab appointment for blood-work at the Kincardine hospital.

Next week, I go to Walkerton hospital (also part of the South Bruce Grey Health Centre) for a CT scan, and the following week, I am driving a friend to Hanover hospital for a medical appointment. Perhaps, a shuttle bus could be set up between Hanover and Kincardine for patients who cannot, or are unable to, drive for appointments.

Also, a real-life phone receptionist at our hospital would help frustrated taxpayers.

Happily, I did not post my grievance because just this week, I ended up at the emergency department in Kincardine with a gash in my leg which required 19 stitches.

I must say, the Midas Muffler motto came to mind. Dr. Hess and her staff “Treated me like I was a Somebody!”

Glenn Hedley
Kincardine