As the province looks to increase COVID-19 testing capacity, it could be done in a local lab.
In today's update on the local efforts to respond to the pandemic, Porcupine Health Unit Medical Officer of Health Dr. Lianne Catton said the province is looking at relocating and increasing testing capacity in various communities.
She said they are hoping both Timmins and Sudbury's Health Sciences North have on-site testing capacity.
Catton noted it wouldn't change the process for people to be tested.
“What the province is looking at is increasing capacity at different labs. So the discussion right now is around the Public Health Ontario lab in Timmins,” she said.
Catton couldn't give an exact turnaround for the results if a local lab is processing the tests.
“The test itself typically, we were getting results within 24 hours initially including once they were received into Toronto. So we’ll have to see, but it will make a difference,” she said.
As of March 27, the Porcupine Health Unit is aware of 217 tests being submitted locally. There are six positive cases in the region, 130 tests were negative, and they are waiting for the results of 81.
If you have symptoms of COVID-19 — fever, dry cough and/or shortness of breath — call the Porcupine Health Unit information line at 1-800-461-1818.
It's available weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. If you leave a message, staff will get back to you within 24 hours.
The COVID-19 Assessment Centre in Timmins is located at the Intrepid Centre at the Canadian Mental Health Association's branch on Second Avenue. While it was originally scheduled for weekdays, Catton said it will be open again this weekend.
It is by appointment only, with people needing a referral from their doctor, Porcupine Health Unit or Telehealth. Find out what you need to know about how to access it here.
She also has a reminder for people who have been tested. It's something she said people are told by public health and their healthcare provider.
"Anyone who has tested and is waiting for results, they’re still required to self-isolate for 14 days, both while waiting for the test results and even after the test results are negative. And if anyone is unwell and has not been tested, the recommendation is still to stay home and follow up as needed with respect to potential testing through public health or their primary care provider,” she said.
The daily call also includes updates from other service providers in Timmins.
Highlights of those are:
Timmins and District Hospital
At Timmins and District Hospital, strict visitor restrictions remain in place.
According to TADH communications specialist Kaileigh Russell, staff are available with iPads to help patients FaceTime with family and friends. A cell phone or tablet with charger can also be dropped off at the front entrance to help stay connected. It must be in a sealed plastic bag with the patient's name and room number clearly indicated.
Cochrane District Social Services Administration Board
CAO Brian Marks urged people calling 911 that if they're able, to answer the screening questions as accurately as possible. It allows paramedics to prepare before arriving on scene and avoids unnecessarily using personal protection equipment.
CDSSAB is also coordinating with local service providers to create a food distribution system that allows for social distancing. The schedule for that should be ready soon.
Living Space staff are on-site at Northern College to monitor and encourage social distancing protocols day and night, said Marks. Earlier this week, the emergency overnight shelter was suspended and people were transferred to the college residence yesterday. Marks said more people will be moving next week.
For people with a relative in one of the CDSSAB seniors' buildings, he asked them to enforce to residents the importance of not allowing visitors into the building. Residents are also reminded to stay in their units and not visit neighbours. If people need something, he said residents should contact housing services.
Timmins Police Service
Chief John Gauthier said he wanted to dispel possible myths about the policing staffing levels.
“We’re adequately staffed, more than adequately staffed at this point. We continue to provide policing services to our community. Community safety and everyone’s wellbeing is paramount here, so we have a good handle on it at this point,” said Gauthier.
