COVID-19 Update

COVID-19 Update
Last updated March 17 at 10:00 am  
 
By now, everyone is likely aware that the world is dealing with a pandemic, and that we expect to be dealing with an increased number of COVID-19 cases in our community in the near future. We at Summit Medical hope to do our best to support our patients through this difficult time, and still do our best to provide care. However, we have had to make some changes in how our office is run in order to prevent spread of this disease. 

1. Should you feel you are at risk of having contracted COVID-19 we would ask that you call our office (226-383-3333), Telehealth Ontario (1-866-797-0000) or Public Health (519-822-2715) for assessment and direction on how to proceed.

2. In the absence of severe symptoms that would otherwise make you feel the need to go to the Emergency Department (ex. shortness of breath, severe weakness, inability to tolerate fluids, worsening of your other health conditions) please do not go to the hospital. The Emergency Department is already being overwhelmed with people presenting requesting testing that do not require emergency interventions. Should you feel you need to present to the Emergency Department please call ahead to inform them that you are coming so that they may take appropriate precautions.

3. As with many medical and other supplies, there has been a shortage of testing supplies. Even if you are at risk of having COVID-19 you may be declined testing and advised to simply self-quarantine under the assumption that you have it without further confirmation. The criteria for who can be tested is changing daily.

4. We are switching as many appointments as we can to telephone appointments. This way we hope to provide you with care while minimizing the risk of transmission of this virus. We have been able to do this thanks to a change in the OHIP billing codes for the duration of the pandemic. 

6. As a social distancing measure, we are cancelling all non-urgent procedures, for example wart treatments. You will receive a phone call if your appointment has been cancelled. 

7. We are continuing with a limited number of in-person visits for medical concerns that cannot be managed over the phone. We ask that if you have any travel history in the last 14 days or develop any respiratory symptoms (cough, runny nose, sore throat, fever, etc.) that you call us instead of coming into our clinic. 

8. In an effort to support social distancing measures, we are waiving all sick note fees and fax prescription renewal fees for the time being. 

9. As more information arises, we would advise you to use credible sources to inform yourself. Some suggestions include: The Ontario Medical Association (virusfacts.ca), Public Health Ontario (ontario.ca/page/2019-novel-coronavirus)