United for patient care: A successful collaboration between the Cree Board of Health and Social Services of James Bay and the MUHC

On Monday, June 2, the community of Chisasibi faced a daunting challenge: water reservoirs had reached dangerously low levels, making it impossible to continue hemodialysis treatments locally. Since dialysis is not simply a treatment but very often a matter of survival, this posed an immediate threat to the well-being of patients.

That same afternoon, the Cree Health Board and the McGill University Health Centre (MUHC) quickly mobilized to find a solution. Under the direction of Dr. Horowitz, nephrologists from the Montreal General Hospital (MGH) and the North-South Liaison Department (Wîchithîtuwin) rapidly assessed dialysis patients and prioritized them for transfer. Over the next two days, Tuesday and Wednesday, patients were flown to Montreal despite delays and logistical challenges.

Once the patients landed, the MGH dialysis team got to work. Dialysis stations had been prepared in advance so that patients could receive treatment without delay. The transition from Chisasibi to the MGH went smoothly, thanks to seamless coordination, trust, and a shared commitment to patient care.

This operation was a great example of teamwork. The Chisasibi dialysis team and the MGH dialysis unit joined forces, working side by side to support each patient. “I want to thank the assistant nurse managers from both units who worked together to help each other and make sure everything went smoothly and that the patients were safe,” said Jerrica McKinnon, Nurse Manager of the MGH Renal Program. To ensure open communication, the two teams meet six days a week, when the dialysis unit is open, so that all team members are aware of the latest information and concerns of their colleagues.

 “We want to extend a special thank you to the stores team, especially our dedicated storekeeper, who ensured the daily delivery of essential supplies that allowed dialysis care to continue without interruption. We also thank the Biomedical and Transport Services, whose quick response made it possible to safely transfer two dialysis machines from the Glen site to the MGH in just a few hours,” added Jerrica.

The events of this week highlighted more than just a logistical success — they showed what happens when healthcare professionals come together with a shared goal: the well-being of their patients. Across distances, departments, and organizations, we stood united—because when it comes to caring for patients, there are no boundaries.