The Canadian Medical Association (CMA) Foundation’s COVID-19 Community Hospital Fund granted $100,000 to Lake of the Woods District Hospital (LWDH) as part of its COVID-19 relief initiative to support those on the frontline of this pandemic. The funds announced will be used to purchase physical barriers to limit droplet transmission in shared work and treatment areas and Powered Air Purifying Respirators (PAPRs). PAPRs provide equivalent protection to N95 masks but are much more comfortable to wear for a prolonged period of time. PAPRs also allow patients to see staff members’ faces which improves communication, especially with hearing impaired patients.

“We are very appreciative of the CMA Foundation funding and the improvements in safety and prevention of infection spread that this investment will enable,” says Ray Racette, LWDH President and CEO.

The CMA Foundation announced the COVID-19 Community Hospital Fund as part of its commitment to provide COVID-19 relief. The $5 million fund supports hospitals across Canada with fewer than 100 beds to meet their evolving needs with activities, equipment and training that enhance staff wellness, improve access to care and help prepare for future pandemics.

“I am inspired every day by the dedication of physicians, health care providers and all hospital workers as they continue to confront the COVID-19 pandemic head-on,” says Allison Seymour, CMA Foundation president. “We know these are extraordinary times that require extraordinary support. From managing evolving health care needs to address changes in your community, to ensuring the proper equipment and training for your staff, our hope is that these funds will have a positive impact as you continue to navigate the challenges of the pandemic.”

The CMA Foundation is the charitable arm of the Canadian Medical Association and provides impactful charitable giving that furthers excellence in health care. To date, the foundation has committed more than $30 million in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.