Open AccessSchulich students for emergency childcare: Results of a community initiative during COVID-19
Author(s) -
Chris Zhang,
Nadeesha Samarasinghe,
Jessica R. Garabon,
Gali Katznelson,
Montana Hackett,
Yashoda Valliere,
Rebecca Barnfield
Publication year - 2021
Publication title -
uwomj/medical journal
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
eISSN - 2560-8274
pISSN - 0042-0336
DOI - 10.5206/uwomj.v89is1.10898
Subject(s) - covid-19 , pandemic , health care , medicine , public health , bioethics , nursing , personal protective equipment , public relations , medical education , family medicine , medical emergency , political science , disease , infectious disease (medical specialty) , pathology , virology , outbreak , law
The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic led to the abrupt suspension of many businesses and services in Ontario including schools and childcare centres. This resulted in many parents struggling to identify options for childcare, including frontline healthcare workers (HCWs). A volunteer initiative composed of medical and dental students was developed to provide emergency childcare support to HCWs in Southwestern Ontario. Experts in areas of public health, law, and bioethics were consulted to minimize the risks associated with participation and develop a clear policy to prioritize the health and safety of all participants. Social media was utilized to recruit volunteers and HCWs who were matched on a first-come, first-served basis. 59 medical and dental students were recruited to provide emergency support for 21 HCWs within the unique safety and ethical conditions posed by COVID-19. By reflecting on the strengths of this initiative and the challenges faced during its completion, key areas of improvement were identified that should be addressed in future initiatives of a similar nature.