by: zak vescera
some long-term care homes say they’re waiting for answers on whether residents, staff and family members can or should ditch the face masks when saskatchewan lifts its last public health restrictions next month.
premier scott moe announced days ago that saskatchewan will scrap its last public health orders on july 11, including a mandate on masking in indoor public spaces.
however, on tuesday the saskatchewan health authority wrote to long-term care homes, warning them “it is not business as usual” in health care and that “safety directives, such as masking and use of personal protective equipment, will remain in place in sha facilities and long-term care homes until the risks of covid-19 are effectively controlled.”
wayne nogier, ceo of mont st. joseph care home in prince albert, is unsure if the message foreshadows a new public health order or if the sha is simply making a recommendation.
“until it drops down as an official policy directive or a continuation of the public health order, i’m handcuffed,” nogier said.
three sources confirmed receipt of the memo. the sha did not respond to a request for comment sent on monday. the provincial ministry of health wrote only that “guidance for long-term care homes for after july 11 is under review.”