Almonte residents benefit from access to psychogeriatrician
Tuesday February 12, 2008 -- Natalie Miller
Almonte Country Haven residents are benefitting from regular access to a psychiatrist who specializes in geriatrics coupled with a strong supportive measures program, the home says.

Dr. Walter Potoczny runs clinics weekly at the eastern-Ontario long-term care home, seeing three residents each Thursday.

Administrator Rick Gourlie says the home is extremely fortunate to have access to the doctor.

“To have a good psychogeriatrician that comes into long-term care is an incredible blessing,” says Gourlie.

“To have one who comes in on a weekly basis is like winning the lottery.”

During his weekly visits, in collaboration with nurse and supportive measures specialist Madelaine Tuttle, Dr. Potoczny meets with residents identified as needing the most support, explains director of care Kelly Davies. She says the individual sessions with three residents per week encompass medication reviews and therapy.

“Madelaine is a key player,” says Davies, noting with Tuttle's nursing and supportive measures expertise, she helps communicate Dr. Potoczny's plans with staff aimed at best supporting residents' needs.

Dr. Potoczny has been making weekly visits to Almonte since January.