Blanche River Health Foundation (BRHF) is excited to announce a new fundraiser to purchase and set up an advanced emergency room waiting clock system for both the Kirkland Lake and Englehart Blanche River Health (BRH) sites. The goal is to raise $40,000 to provide a system that enhances transparency and improves the patient experience in the emergency departments.

To kick start the fundraiser, a portion from Sharon Eady’s generous $35,000 donation will be used. Eady, a former Kirkland Lake resident and retired healthcare professional, was moved by the dedication of the staff at the Kirkland Lake site’s emergency department when she visited this summer. “I was born in KL and have seen how crucial these resources are. I hope my donation helps improve the patient experience for everyone,” Eady shared.

As BRH continues their physician recruitment mission, this system does not change wait times but will predict and display estimated wait times in the emergency department, providing patients with real-time information about when they can expect to see a physician. The wait time data will be available on the hospital's website, the hospitals’ Facebook Page and LinkedIn Page, and in the waiting rooms helping patients make informed decisions about their care from wherever they are.

Waiting Clock Display Example

The benefits of this system are significant. It provides greater transparency and a sense of control during what can often be a stressful time. By knowing how long the estimated wait is, patients can better manage their expectations and plan accordingly. This system also helps patients understand when it might be better to seek care at a different time or location, ultimately leading to a more efficient use of healthcare resources.

Barbara Effenberger, Vice President, Corporate Services and Chief Financial Officer of BRH, emphasized the benefits of this initiative: “This system will empower our patients by giving them real-time information, helping to manage their expectations and reduce anxiety while they wait. It’s an important step toward improving patient care and operational efficiency in our emergency departments.”

John Sullivan, the Foundation’s Board Chair, also highlighted the importance of community support: “We’re calling on our community to help us reach this goal. Your donation, no matter the size, will make a difference.”

The Foundation is encouraging everyone to contribute. Every contribution brings us closer to our goal of $40,000 and a better experience for all who rely on our emergency services.

Let’s work together to make this a reality for our community!

The Blanche River Health Foundation raises funds for equipment and capital projects at the Englehart and Kirkland Lake sites. With limited government funding for these needs, the hospital relies on community donations to modernize facilities and equipment. As a registered charity governed by a volunteer board of directors, the Foundation depends on people’s generosity to support essential improvements, enhance patient care and support the hospital’s mission to make healthcare work for you.

To donate, choose the option that is best for you:

• Online at brhfoundation.ca
• Cheque to Blanche River Health Foundation
  145 Government Road East, Kirkland Lake, Ontario P2N 3P4
• In person: Cash, cheques, drafts and money orders can be dropped off at the Central Registry department of our Englehart (61 Fifth Street) and Kirkland Lake (145 Government Road East) sites.

Visit brhfoundation.ca to learn more about the Foundation.