CORNER BROOK, N.L. — Western Health is increasing services in a number of areas as the province moves into Alert Level 3 of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Areas that will see an increase in service include: medical imaging, endoscopy, cardiac diagnostics, surgical services, blood collection services, outpatient appointments for orthopedic, physiotherapy, dietitian, wound and ostomy care, community services such as mental health and addictions, public health, community support services, autism services and speech and audiology and specialist appointments.
Western Health said in a press release that providing care virtually will continue to be the first line of service delivery for most care providers. In-person services will incorporate physical distancing and the use of personal protective equipment.
Patients identified as high priority by their health-care provider will be contacted to have their appointments rescheduled.
For certain procedures, people will be required to undergo a COVID-19 test and have the results received prior to the procedure. These people will be contacted up to 72 hours in advance to book the COVID-19 test.
All patients admitted to hospitals in the region will be tested for COVID-19.
Entry points to facilities across the region continue to be adjusted to screen people and members of the public will be screened for COVID-19 through a series of questions. Masks will be provided at the entry points and must be worn while in the facilities. People are also reminded to adhere to strict physical distancing measures and not arrive more than 10 minutes prior to their appointment time.
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