New provincial ventilator service available through KGH

The simple act of clearing your throat or coughing is second nature to most, but for people with long-term disabilities or illnesses that require mechanical ventilation, it can be difficult or even impossible. But, come April 1, eligible patients across the province will be able to access a specialized device through KGH that will improve their lives.

The CoughAssist E70 device will soon be available through the Ontario Ventilator Equipment Pool (VEP), operated by KGH, thanks to support by new and ongoing funding from the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care’s Assistive Devices Program.

“This initiative will significantly improve quality of life for patients who need mechanical ventilation and also reduce visits to the emergency room,” says Deb Matthews, Minister of Health and Long-Term Care. “We are proud to partner with KGH to ensure these patients get the right care at the right time and in the right place.”

The device has a number of benefits to patients who are unable to cough or whose cough is ineffective due to muscle weakness.

“In the past, patients had to undergo regular treatments that can be uncomfortable and can lead to complications, such as infections that can lead to hospitalization,” says Regina Pizzuti, Manager of the Ventilator Equipment Pool. “The device uses positive and negative pressure to remove secretions or mucus from the patient’s lungs. We are proud to offer this service that will transform the patient experience for patients and families at KGH and across the province.”

It will also offer patients freedom to complete their treatment where they choose because the device is portable and is operated by a battery.

The new service is welcome news to organizations that support patients with Muscular Dystrophy and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease. These disorders cause progressive muscle weakness which can put people at risk for respiratory failure. Access to these devices will help prevent unnecessary complications and promote healthy and active lives as well as prolong the time people living with these disorders can remain at home.

Patients, physicians and healthcare providers who would like more information are asked to contact Regina Pizzuti, Manager, Ventilator Equipment Pool at 1-800-633-8977.