Health unit has new phone system

It just became a whole lot simpler to call the local health unit.

The Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge District Health Unit recently launched an auto attendant phone system designed to help callers easily connect with the department they are trying to reach.

Previously, the health unit had a separate number for each of its three offices, requiring people to sometimes call multiple offices to connect with appropriate program staff.

Under the new automated system, callers can dial the health unit’s toll-free number 1-866-888-4577, select an option out of the choices provided, and be connected directly with the program staff they need. If they are unsure of who to speak with, callers still have the choice to speak with a live person to have their call directed. Those calls are answered primarily by the Health Unit’s receptionist in the Haliburton office.

“Our new automated system is designed to ensure callers reach who they need quickly and efficiently,” says Mary Catherine Masciangelo, director of corporate services with the HKPR District Health Unit.

Receptionists are still located at each of the three offices to help people visiting unit and provide additional support to the program staff.

“Our reception staff are still at each office to greet visitors, answer questions about programs, and assist people using our services,” says Masciangelo.

“The way we are answering the phones may have changed, but our commitment to customer service is as important as ever.”