Virtual Services, FIREFLY’s preferred service delivery option

Reeti Meenakshi Rohilla  - Staff Writer

An increased number of COVID-19 cases in and around their services area is propelling FIREFLY to take a vigilant approach towards their in-person service delivery. The CEO of FIREFLY, Karen Ingebrigtson mentioned in their Oct. 23 media release that at this time virtual service remains FIREFLY’s first service delivery option for all clinical services at this time. “For situations where virtual services are not possible, we are delivering those services in-person, both in our offices and in community settings such as the client’s home or schools.”
FIREFLY stated in their new release that the organization is offering in-person services for people requiring hands-on treatment, such as infant physiotherapy services. FIREFLY is also providing in-person services for those people who may not have access to technology such as a computer, tablet or smartphone. However, FIREFLY is often able to offer families a loaner iPad, with 3G capabilities. “FIREFLY is thrilled to be able to provide an additional option to those families who are facing barriers to virtual service because they don’t have their own Internet or device. We have 20 loaner iPads that we can provide to families so they can receive clinical services from the comfort of their home.” Families struggling with a lack of access to technology for the virtual services must notify their clinician or the Intake Worker, while requesting services from FIREFLY.
FIREFLY has a number of safety precautions in place for clients who require in-person appointments. “These include pre-screening of clients in advance of their appointment, screening for COVID symptoms upon arrival at the appointment, mandatory masks for clients, personal protective equipment for staff, and increased cleaning and sanitization for appointment and high-touch areas. FIREFLY also has a maximum capacity for each office in order to limit potential interactions with other staff and clients with in-person appointments,” the organization informed.
“Our goal is to ensure that children, youth and families can receive the services they need in the safest way possible in these unprecedented times,” said Ingebrigtson.
FIREFLY is encouraging families and youth to reach out for any services they may require, by calling their Centralized Intake number at 1-833-696-5437 or emailing [email protected].
More information on services FIREFLY offers can be found at www.fireflynw.ca.
People can follow FIREFLY on social media to stay up-to-date on their latest news on Facebook (@fireflynw), Instagram (FIREFLY_NW) or Twitter (@firefly_nw).