Archive for December, 2021

NBRHC assessment centre experiencing high demand for COVID-19 testing

Due to high call volumes and request for testing appointments, the North Bay Regional Health Centre’s (NBRHC) COVID-19 Assessment Centre is asking for patience and cooperation as our staff work to meet the community’s testing needs.

Ontario has updated its COVID-19 testing guidelines to prioritize tests for those who need them most. Individuals who meet the criteria must book an appointment by calling 705-474-8600 ext. 4110.

Due to higher demand, the phone lines are very busy. If you reach the voicemail, please leave a message and someone will get back to you as soon as possible.

The Health Centre’s COVID-19 Assessment Centre remains open (except statutory holidays) with adjusted operating hours between Friday, December 24, 2021 and Monday, January 1, 2022.

If you are waiting to get tested, please continue to self-isolate.

You can help ensure we continue to operate as efficiently as possible by booking with your closest testing location and not seek testing at multiple COVID-19 assessment centres. COVID-19 testing is also available at select pharmacies locations for asymptomatic individuals that meet criteria established by the province.

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BE PREPARED: Know Your Health Care Options over the Holidays

NBRHC wishes everyone a safe, healthy and happy holiday season as we look forward to 2022.

As many health care services have reduced services, here are some holiday health care tips we hope will help you prepare and keep you and your loved ones healthy.

Remember: if you do need us, we are here for you.

HOLIDAY SEASON HEALTH CARE CHECKLIST:

Need non-emergency care?

You may be able to access the health care you require elsewhere in our community. Click here for a link to walk in clinics. You can also call Telehealth Ontario at 1-866-797-0000.

Tips for visiting the Emergency Department:

NBRHC often is managing higher patient volumes in our Emergency Department (ED) during holidays.

ED patients are triaged, which means the most serious cases are seen first.

If you can, please make sure to bring your health card and any medications you need with you when you come.

Care Partners will need to show proof of vaccination beginning January 17, 2022

With the provincial surge in COVID-19 infections the North Bay Regional Health Centre is taking additional steps to protect our hospital community.

Effective Monday, January 17, 2022, designated Care Partners at NBRHC must show proof of full vaccination against COVID-19 along with government-issued photo I.D every time before entering the Health Centre.

This does not apply to patients—patients may still enter the hospital regardless of vaccination status.

The new vaccination guidelines do not apply in some exceptional circumstances including (but not limited to): end-of-life, Birthing Unit, neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), paediatric patients or patients with a developmental disability or cognitive impairment.

In-person visits are not allowed for COVID-19 suspected or positive patients. In these cases, the unit will help accommodate virtual visits using technology such as iPads. Also, restrictive entry is still in place in outpatient areas (Emergency Department, Outpatient Clinics).