MUSKOKA ASSESSMENT CENTRES NOW MORE OPEN TO PUBLIC

MUSKOKA — After months of delay and deaths, all Muskokans will have more access to COVID-19 testing.

But it could still take a week to get your results — but you will receive them at your home.

Anyone concerned and who has symptoms can get tested at the two assessment centres located for weeks now in Bracebridge and Huntsville, says Janine van den Heuvel, executive director of the Algonquin Family Health Team in a release Friday, May 1.

Previously priority was given to health-care and essential workers. They have tested 370 people and virtually assessed nearly 400 patients.

In add the local hospitals have tested more than 550 as of earlier this week.

To get tested, talk to an assessment centre health worker at 1-888-383-7009.

The phone lines are open Monday to Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Patient access to the assessment centres is still by appointment only Monday through Friday.

No walk-in visits are allowed.

In addition to the ongoing testing of the general public, Ontario will continue proactively testing several priority groups.

The release says that by testing more people, cases will be found faster, intervention can happen earlier, will help reduce the spread and save lives.

Testing for COVID-19 in Muskoka is encouraged if symptoms are present. While some populations are prioritized, testing guidelines have been broadened and more people are eligible for testing.

Officials advise that if you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 you should still first contact your doctor or nurse practitioner.

Primary care providers are delivering care in a new way. Offices in the area are available by phone, virtually or in-person as required.

If you do not have a doctor or nurse practitioner, call Telehealth Ontario at 1-866-797-0000 or access the Ministry of Health Self Assessment Tool.

After that, if you have been advised to attend a COVID-19 Assessment Centre, you may book an appointment by calling the assessment centre.

Doctors and nurse practitioners can also book an appointment for you.

What happens at the assessment centre?

You will be seen by a health-care professional who will conduct a test and/or assessment depending on latest guidelines and clinical expertise. They will also provide you with the necessary care instructions for next steps.

And how will you find out the results and how long will it take to get results?

The province has released the COVID-19 Test Results Viewer, whic allows you to check your results from home.

Wait times will vary, however it may take up to 7 days to receive your results.

If you have not received your results after seven days, call your own doctor or nurse practitioner.

If you do not have a doctor or nurse practitioner, you can call the assessment centre for guidance.

About the COVID-19 Assessment Centres in Muskoka:

These centres have been established in partnership with Muskoka Algonquin Healthcare, Algonquin Family Health Team, Cottage Country Family Health Team, North Muskoka Nurse Practitioner-Led Clinic, Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit, Muskoka Paramedic Services and District of Muskoka.

To date, the Muskoka COVID-19 assessment centres have completed 370 tests and also virtually assessed nearly 400 patients.

These numbers are specific to the assessment centre testing and do not include tests administered through the hospital, long-term care or any other institution.

Officials say the Huntsville and Bracebridge assessment centres have an adaptable capacity and the planning has built-in flexibility to increase capacity in a surge situation.

“To date, we are meeting the requested demands for assessment and testing and do not have a wait list,” says Friday’s release.

“At the assessment centres, we have adopted the new broadened testing criteria, as we have previously adopted all provincial guidelines and have adapted quickly as that has changed.”

Assessment Centre locations:

BRACEBRIDGE:

Rotary Centre for Youth

131 Wellington St.

Bracebridge, ON P1L 1E2

HUNTSVILLE:

Huntsville District Memorial Hospital

Building B,100 Frank Miller Dr.

Huntsville, ON, P1H 1H7

These centres have been established in partnership with Muskoka Algonquin Healthcare, Algonquin Family Health Team, Cottage Country Family Health Team, North Muskoka Nurse Practitioner-Led Clinic, Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit, Muskoka Paramedic Services and The District Municipality of Muskoka.