The safety and security of all patients, staff, visitors and partners is a top priority for the Northern Health Region.

Security guards are present 24/7 at each of our hospitals with active inpatient units, including Thompson General Hospital, St. Anthony’s Hospital, The Pas, and Flin Flon General Hospital. Thompson General Hospital will soon have Institutional Safety Officers (ISO’s) on site 24/7 as well.

Code White protocols are in place for staff, so that incidents involving patients or visitors can be responded to right away by trained security personnel.

The Northern Health Region’s Regional Security program has continued to advance initiatives aimed at strengthening the safety of staff, patients, and visitors across our facilities.

Two key updates to security services at Thompson General Hospital (TGH) are occurring in March, 2026:

1. The Security team has expanded to include Institutional Safety Officers (ISO’s) who are now actively working and patrolling on site.
2. Effective Wednesday, March 25th Access Management will be implemented at the main entrance. All patients, visitors, and members of the public will enter through a designated security checkpoint. The Emergency Department entrance will no longer be used for public access and will remain secured.

These enhancements are intended to support a safe and welcoming environment, while also providing guidance and direction to individuals entering the facility.

Institutional Safety Officers (ISO’s)

As of March 2026, five full-time ISO positions have been established on-site at TGH providing coverage seven days a week during daytime hours. As recruitment and training continue, the goal is to establish 24/7 coverage with two ISOs on shift, alongside existing Security Officers.

ISOs are licensed as Peace Officers and, in health-care environments, have additional training in crisis intervention and de-escalation techniques, search and investigative skills, evidence collecting and report writing. They also have training which allows them to accept a mental health patient from the police and then secure and protect them until they are seen by healthcare professionals. ISOs are now transferring patients from the RCMP under the Mental Health Act (MHA).

Security Officers remain an essential part of the team, with a continued focus on site safety, monitoring, and access control. Enhancements to equipment and communication systems are also underway to support their work.

Access Management

Access Management will be established at TGH using only the main entrance effective Wednesday, March 25, 2026. All members of the public and patients will be welcomed through a centralized entry point where a Security checkpoint has been established at the main TGH entrance. Access Management protocols will not apply to Staff, Contractors, RCMP, or EMS. They will continue to access the facility in accordance with established protocols and identification requirements.

Individuals who choose not to participate in Access Management processes may experience limited access to the facility, with alternative arrangements considered based on care needs.

At this checkpoint, individuals entering the facility will be supported through the following processes:

• Upon entering the facility patients/members of the public will have a verbal screening conversation with a member of the Security team. Individuals requiring emergency patient care will be expedited.
  • They will be asked to remove, surrender, or place into an Amnesty Locker any bags, coats, or personal items. If they prefer to keep the items with them, items must be searched by Security.  
  • At the Security Teams discretion and with consent of the individual they will be subject to a secondary search and will be scanned with a metal detector. If deemed as required by Security, also with continued consent, they will be pat down searched as well to confirm they are not in possession of any prohibited items before entering the facility. 
  • If a person entering our facility refuses any of the above options they will be subject to the following:
    • People seeking medical care: Security Overwatch of these individuals will be maintained either until they leave or volunteer to be subject to the Access Management protocols listed above.
    • Visitors: Access will be temporarily restricted, pending compliance.
    • Client Escorts: TGH Security will consult with clinical teams to determine whether an escort is required. Where an escort is deemed not required, the escort will not be permitted entry. If they are deemed required, then Security Overwatch will be provided.

We thank all community members for patience and cooperation as we continue to enhance the safety of our health care facilities.

Amnesty Lockers

What are Amnesty Lockers?

Amnesty Lockers are secure, visible storage lockers provided at security checkpoints in healthcare facilities. They are used to store personal belongings that cannot be brought into the facility.

What facilities in our region have Amnesty Lockers?

We currently have amnesty lockers at the Thompson General Hospital.

Who can use Amnesty Lockers?

Anyone entering a Northern Health Region (NHR) facility—clients, visitors, and members of the public—may use Amnesty Lockers if asked to secure their belongings, and if lockers are available at that facility.

What items should be stored in Amnesty Lockers?

Any personal belongings, including bags, that contain items not permitted in the facility, such as weapons or sharp objects. Belongings not needed during the facility visit (e.g., extra bags) should also be stored.

Are there any items I should keep with me?

Yes. You should keep essential personal items such as your ID, wallet, or phone with you, as you will not be able to retrieve items from the locker until you leave the facility.

What happens if I refuse to use an Amnesty Locker?

You will be provided options:

• Consent to a search of your belongings
• Remove your belongings from the property
• If neither option is accepted, Security will maintain visual proximity and notify clinical staff of non-compliance.

How is my property stored in the locker?

Your items will be placed in a clear plastic bag by Security while you watch. The bag is then stored in a visible locker. You will receive a claim ticket corresponding to the locker.

How do I retrieve my belongings?

When you’re ready to leave:

• Present your claim ticket to Security
• Show photo ID or confirm your name as recorded
• Security will return your belongings outside the facility

Will my belongings be searched?

Belongings placed voluntarily into the locker are not searched. If belongings are being inspected as part of the intake or admission process, they may be searched following approved guidelines.

What if I’m admitted to the facility and can’t retrieve my items?

Your belongings may:

• Be searched and transferred to your care unit
• Be moved to Lost & Found for up to 30 days
• Be retrieved by a designated person on your behalf

What happens if I forget to retrieve my belongings?

Items left in lockers for more than 24 hours are transferred to Lost and Found. They are kept for 30 days and then disposed of following NHR protocols.

How do I get my belongings from Lost and Found?

Visit the main information desk to:

• Present your claim ticket to Security
• Show photo ID or confirm your name as recorded
• Security will return your belongings outside the facility

Are the lockers and bags clean?

Yes. Clear plastic bags reduce contamination risk. Lockers are cleaned only when visibly soiled or contaminated.

Is NHR responsible for items in the locker?

No. NHR is not responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged items placed in Amnesty Lockers.

Measles is highly contagious and spreads through coughing, sneezing, and close contact. Infection can cause complications and can result in serious illness or death. Information on measles exposure locations in Manitoba visit https://ow.ly/Tv6450YciVW

Immunization is the best way to prevent measles. Talk to your local public health office or call Health Links – Info Santé about how to catch up (1-888-315-9257) to ensure everyone is up to date. If you are planning to travel with an infant between 6 months and 12 months of age, talk to your health care provider about early measles vaccination.

Unsure if you have received the measles vaccine and want to check your immunization records? Have questions about the vaccine? Talk to your health-care provider or local public health office or request your records online: https://ow.ly/KlIy50Vg4fv

Resources and more can be found here: Measles Public Heath Factsheet

Manitoba continues to see new cases of Hepatitis A associated with the ongoing provincial outbreak.    

Hepatitis A is an acute liver infection caused by the Hepatitis A virus.  Hepatitis A can be spread through contact with an infected person’s feces (stool) or by drinking or eating contaminated food or water.  Hepatitis A can also pass from person to person through some forms of sexual contact or from sharing needles with someone who may be infected. 

Some people infected with Hepatitis A, especially young children, have no symptoms.  Others can develop symptoms that may include:

• Fever
• loss of appetite
• tiredness
• nausea & vomiting
• stomach cramps
• diarrhea
• dark urine and/or clay-coloured stools
• jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)

Hepatitis A can be prevented by getting immunized with the Hepatitis A vaccine. 

You can also reduce your risk by:

• washing your hands after using the toilet, handling diapers, and before eating or preparing food
• using safe food practices
• following safe sex practices
• not sharing needles or syringes

The following individuals who are 6 months of age and older are eligible for one dose of Hepatitis A vaccine:

• Community members in the Island Lake area (Garden Hill, St. Theresa Point, Wasagamack and Red Sucker Lake)
• Community members in Peguis First Nation
• Anyone travelling to or working in these communities
• Those who have household visitors from these communities

All individuals who are 6 months of age and older who have high risk medical conditions, are experiencing homelessness, or have life-style risks for infection, including people engaging in illicit drug use and men having sex with men are eligible for two doses of the Hepatitis A vaccine.

For more information or to find out how to receive the Hepatitis A vaccine contact your local Public Health Office or visit https://northernhealthregion.com/programs-and-services/public-health/

Join us for a Microsoft Teams presentation: Let’s Talk About Mental Health on Bell Let’s Talk Day, January 21, from 12:30–2:00 p.m.

Topics include understanding mental health, reducing stigma, how our nervous system responds to stress, and everyday coping strategies for stress, anxiety, and low mood. Follow the Microsoft Teams link below to join the session. We hope you can join the conversation.

Microsoft Teams – Let’s Talk About Mental Health

The Northern Regional Health Authority (NRHA) Board of Directors has been informed Mr. Raj Sewda will resign his position as CEO of the Authority. The Board thanks Mr. Sewda for his commitment to northern health care.

Since joining the NRHA in 2023, Mr. Sewda led with a focus on strengthening partnerships, advancing organizational priorities, and supporting communities across the Region. This work is acknowledged and appreciated.

“On behalf of the Board, I want to thank Raj for his service and commitment to the NRHA,” said Kelsey Horrocks, Chair of the NRHA Board.

Mr. Sewda shared, “It has been an honour to serve the Northern Health Region. I am grateful to our staff, community partners, and leadership team for their dedication and collaboration.

The Board is committed to ensuring continuity of services and is pleased to announce the appointment of Acting Chief Executive Officer, Cam Ritzer along with Acting Associate Chief Executive Officer, Micheal Ellis effective January 2, 2026.

The safety of clients and staff is the highest priority of the Northern Health Region. This has led NHR leadership to implement enhanced security measures at Thompson General Hospital (TGH).

Effective December 1 at 7:00 PM, the Thompson General Hospital will begin overnight monitored access, from 7:00 PM to 6:00 AM. The only public access to the facility will be through the main Emergency Department (ED) doors. The purpose of these security changes at TGH is to ensure the well-being of clients, their caregivers, and the staff.

The following changes have been implemented for this overnight monitored access:
1. Stairwell doors will be securely closed, with staff access only
2. Elevators will be securely closed, with staff access only
3. Management and 24/7 security officers will monitor these areas and ensure compliance

Please note: Thompson General Hospital is not identified by the City of Thompson as a cold-weather shelter. The TGH facility is not set up or equipped for this purpose.

We appreciate your understanding and cooperation as we enhance security with the delivery of essential healthcare services. We will continue to provide updates and remain committed to keeping you informed. Should you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact Patient Experience by phone: 1-888-340-6742 or email: [email protected]

Message from Raj Sewda, Chief Executive Officer

As we celebrate Allied Health Week, I want to extend my heartfelt appreciation to all Allied Health professionals across the Northern Health Region. This week is an opportunity to recognize your expertise, compassion, and unwavering commitment to improving the health and wellbeing of our northern communities.

Allied Health encompasses a diverse and essential group of professionals — including those in diagnostic imaging, laboratory services, rehabilitation and therapy, social work, pharmacy, and Emergency Response Services (ERS). Each of you plays a vital role in the patient journey.

Whether providing critical diagnostics, supporting rehabilitation, coordinating social and community resources, ensuring safe medication management, or responding to emergencies across vast distances, your work strengthens our capacity to deliver safe, integrated, and compassionate care.

You are also key drivers in supporting safe and timely discharges, helping patients return home sooner with the right supports in place. Through coordinated care planning, functional assessments, medication reconciliation, and collaboration with nursing, medicine, and community partners, you ensure that discharges are not only efficient but safe, sustainable, and person-centered. Your efforts enhance recovery, reduce readmissions, and promote wellness where it matters most — at home and in community.

In the North, where geography, weather, and distance create unique challenges, your adaptability, teamwork, and innovation embody the spirit of the Northern Health Region’s vision — healthy people, healthy communities, and sustainable health care through leadership and partnership. You demonstrate daily what it means to live our mission — to provide quality, accessible, and compassionate health services to all.

Thank you for your professionalism, compassion, and the meaningful difference you make every day. Your dedication is deeply valued and remains essential to the strength of our Region and the health of those we serve.

Happy Allied Health Professionals Week!

Every year, Manitoba Substance Use and Addictions Awareness Week provides an opportunity for Manitobans from all walks of life to engage in meaningful discussions and explore solutions for addressing the harms caused by substance use and addictions. Manitoba Substance Use and Addictions Awareness Week runs from November 16-22 and the theme for 2025 is Anchoring Hope. Throughout the week several webinars discussing substance use and addiction will be held. Visit https://sharedhealthmb.ca/services/mental-health/mha-education/msuaaw/ for more information on events taking place throughout the week.

Download PDF Here!

Free Community Activities – Flin Flon

As part of Substance Use & Addictions Awareness Week, free community activities are taking place in the Flin Flon area. These events have been organized by the Substance Use & Addictions Awareness Week Committee and are open to everyone. Join in to learn, connect, and support awareness in your community!

How to Talk to Your Kids about Alcohol & Other Drugs
An informal presentation with guest Keely Patterson, Community Addictions Worker with Shared Health. This is your opportunity to gain valuable info and ask questions. Door prize, snacks and refreshments served.

Attend the presentation at one of the following locations:

• November19 – Women’s Resource Centre -1:30 – 3:00p.m.
• November 20 – McIsaac School Ecole McIsaac Family Room- 1:30 – 3:00p.m.
• November 21 – Ruth Betts Family Room- 9:00 -11:30 a.m.