The Timmins Academic Family Health Team is reassuring people that its services will continue amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
Executive director Jennifer McLeod talked about the changes in today's daily health table call being held during the crisis.
"If patients need to access their doctor or nurse practitioner, please call the office and the receptionist will assist you. Patients may receive care via telephone appointment or by virtual care when needed when they do call into the office,” she said.
Patients must have an appointment to access their doctor or nurse practitioner in person, as well as the after-hours clinic.
Prior to any scheduled in-person appointments, she said people will be asked questions to determine the protective measures needed for healthcare staff.
“You can be assured that you will receive care regardless of how you answer," she said, adding they've heard of patients who may not be answering truthfully. "The questions are to prepare the medical staff to ensure that we can serve you appropriately to protect everyone."
The after-hours clinic is available for patients of one the family health team's doctors or nurse practitioners.
To ensure the waiting room stays empty, she said they've taken steps for patients to be seen right away.
“These steps have been taken to protect the public and to maintain a safe physical distance between patients at all times. Patients must now call ahead to make an appointment, we request that you come to your appointment alone and that any small children should be accompanied by one family member only,” said McLeod.
Healthcare staff at the clinics are also wearing full personal protective gear.
“This is to protect the individual caring for you because they must get within the six-foot sneeze zone that is required for physical distancing. The use of the protective gear is to ensure that our staff stay healthy and can continue to provide care for you on an ongoing basis,” she said.
For the COVID-19 Assessment Centre in Timmins, McLeod said the Timmins Academic Family Health Team staff are helping with it, and noted it's running smoothly, with patients getting through very quickly at this time.
The assessment centre located at the Intrepid Centre at the Canadian Mental Health Association's branch in Timmins on Second Avenue.
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.
