COVID-19
COVID-19 is placing stress on Canada’s public health system. Our clinic is starting to offer virtual care to make sure that we can continue to care for our patients safely and effectively. This means that we will be using video and audio technologies for some patient visits rather than asking all patients to come into our office. Some of these technologies are provided by the province. Others have been provided by vendors such as Google, or Apple to help make discussions with your care provider as easy as possible during these difficult times. Some health concerns can be addressed with virtual care alone, but in some cases your doctor may ask you to visit a hospital or other health- care facility if necessary, for a physical examination.
We do our best to make sure that any information you give to us during virtual care visits is private and secure, but no video or audio tools are ever completely secure. There is an increased security risk that your health information may be intercepted or disclosed to third parties when using video or audio communications tools. To help us keep your information safe and secure, you can:
• Understand that this method of communication is not secure in the same way as a private appointment in an exam room.
• Use a private computer/device (i.e., not an employer’s or third party’s computer/device), secure accounts, and a secure internet connection. For example, using a personal computer or tablet is more secure than using a friend’s computer, and your access to the Internet on your home network will generally be more secure than an open guest Wi-Fi connection.
You should also understand that virtual care is not a substitute for in-person communication or clinical examinations, where appropriate, or for going to an emergency department when needed (including for any urgent care).
If you are concerned about using video or audio tools for virtual care, you can ask our office to arrange for you to visit a different health care provider or other health care center where you can be seen in person. However, please note that visiting a health care provider in person comes with a higher risk of coming into contact with COVID-19 and the possibility of spreading the virus.
By providing your information, you agree to let us collect, use, or disclose your personal health information through video or audio communications (while following applicable privacy laws) to provide you with care. In particular, the following means of electronic communication may be used OTN, Skype, Facetime, Zoom etc..
PLEASE NOTE: Offices in the Couchiching Family Health Team building are NOT performing testing for the COVID-19 virus.
If you have a fever and/or new or worsening cough PLUS any of the following within 14 days prior to onset of illness:
- Have traveled to a COVID-19 impacted or
- Have been in close contact with a confirmed or probable/clinical case of COVID-19 or
- Had close contact with a person with acute respiratory illness who has been to an impacted area
PLEASE DO NOT ENTER THE BUILDING
You may go to the Couchiching COVID-19 Testing Site which is located on Volunteer Drive (off Mississauga St. at rear of Orillia Soldiers Memorial Hospital) if you meet the above criteria and you are wanting to be tested for the virus.
The testing site is open Monday-Friday from 11am-7pm and Saturday and Sunday from 11am -3pm..
For valuable information about self-isolation, self monitoring and caring household members or close contacts that are in self isolation, please see the fact sheets below:
Self isolation: Guide for caregivers, household members and close contacts
Cold Remedies: What works, what doesn't, what can't hurt
The 2019 Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19)
Take Care of Yourself and Others
A Guide to Physical Distancing
LOOKING FOR A FAMILY DOCTOR?
We encourage you to register with Health Care Connect to connect you to a physician that is currently accepting patients.
About US
Our Team consists of Family Physicians, Nurse Practitioners and health care providers such as Chiropodists, Dietitians, Nurses, Pharmacists, Psychologists, Occupational Therapists and Social Workers. We provide primary care services to patients in the Orillia and surrounding areas.
We commit to providing the best possible care to our patients through all stages of life. Our team focuses on promoting wellness and self-management. We do this through education, on-going support, counselling and workshops. Disease prevention, management, and rehabilitation will keep our community healthy and active. Our Team works with you and your family by providing support and resources through our specialized programs.
“Working Together, Enhancing Care”. This is our commitment to all our patients and their families.
Enhancing Care.