Your Digest
Your Digest will see you in the new year!
Please note: This is our last issue of Your Digest for 2022. The next issue will be published on Friday, Jan. 6, 2023. The communications team will be available over the holidays. You can continue to reach us at communications@blood.ca.
Rapid screening program update: test kits available to take home
Changes are coming to the employee voluntary rapid screening program, which we have been providing with support from Health Canada. Health Canada has recently advised that we are no longer required to report rapid test results and they have discontinued the federal distribution of rapid tests. Given these changes, employees are no longer required to sign up to participate in the rapid screening program and test results do not need to be reported in the Rapid Screening app. Test kits will become available at each site for any employee, for their own use. Learn more on Connect.
Take care when installing new technology at home
This holiday season, our cybersecurity team wants to remind you to be diligent when installing new technology or smart home products. “Some folks may be rushing to buy the latest and greatest webcams, smart technology and security systems,” says Richard Smith, chief information officer. “Hackers can easily find vulnerabilities in systems on your home computing networks and the holiday season can offer them new opportunities.” Many of the risks associated with these devices can be mitigated by following a few simple practices around your home:
- Do your research before purchasing any IT equipment for known security vulnerabilities.
- Avoid installing cameras into bedrooms or other private areas in your home.
- Change the default login credentials and use strong passwords on all your IT equipment including routers, laptops and webcams.
- Cover or disable cameras when not in use — a little sticky note over your laptop camera can go a long way.
For more information on webcams and security, check out this article from the Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada. And find more tips and tricks on Connect to help you stay cyber-aware at home.
Question of the day
What is your highlight from the past year?
Inspired by our CEO, Dr. Graham Sher’s recent end of year message, we’re inviting employees to share their own highlights of 2022. As we near the end of a year that presented both challenges and successes, we encourage you to reflect on what you feel has been a great accomplishment for you, your team or the organization. What are you most proud of as you think back over the past 12 months?
There have been so many exceptional moments and we hope you recognize the key role you play in making all the difference to Canada’s Lifeline. Thank you for helping us achieve our vision to help every patient, match every need and serve every Canadian. Please post your key highlights on Yammer using the hashtag #2022Highlights.
