Long-Term Care and Services for Seniors Division receives accreditation award

Whitby, Ontario – The Region of Durham, Social Services Department, Long-Term Care and Services for Seniors Division was honoured at Durham Regional Council today for earning an Accreditation Canada award with Exemplary Standing. To obtain this award, the Region’s four long-term care homes—Fairview Lodge, Hillsdale Estates, Hillsdale Terraces and Lakeview Manor—and three Adult Day programs met more than 96 per cent of national quality and safety standards.

“On behalf of Regional Council, congratulations on this achievement,” said Regional Chair and Chief Executive Officer Gerri-Lynn O’Connor. “This certification carries a high degree of respect within the health care community. Residents and their families can feel confident that the Region’s long-term care homes and Adult Day programs are among the best.”

The award follows the completion of an on-site accreditation survey from May 7 to 11. It was the first time that all four homes were jointly surveyed, and the Adult Day programs participated. The surveyors met with several representatives, including residents and their families, clients, visitors, volunteers and staff members. The surveyors—health care professionals from accredited long-term care organizations—reviewed and validated the internal processes at the homes and Adult Day programs from a quality improvement and risk management perspective. Policies and protocols were also assessed to confirm the homes’ commitment to person-centred care and safety.

Some of the surveyors’ overall observations include:

• A presence of community at each home site, resulting in a unique identity.
• A supportive volunteer base to enhance service delivery.
• A senior leadership team that works cohesively and collaboratively on common goals.
• A creative team that continues the work on person-centred care.
• A strong network of community partnerships.

“We are extremely proud of our Long-Term Care and Services for Seniors staff on this accomplishment,” said Dr. Hugh Drouin, Commissioner of Social Services. “They have once again demonstrated their leadership, and dedication to organizational excellence and continuous improvement.”

“This award is a testament to the caring employees who provide a safe, secure and welcoming environment each day,” said Laura MacDermaid, Director of Long-Term Care and Services for Seniors. “We will continue to undertake external assessments to help ensure the sustained and enhanced delivery of high-quality programs and services, while working in close partnership with our family members and local community.”

The next review by Accreditation Canada is scheduled for May 2022. For more information about the Region’s long-term care homes and Adult Day programs, please visit durham.ca.  

Accreditation Canada is an independent, not-for-profit organization that has been improving health quality through accreditation for more than 55 years. To learn more about Accreditation Canada, please visit www.accreditation.ca.

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