A COVID-19 assessment centre has been opened outside of Woodstock Hospital.
The centre is operating out of a trailer on the property seven days a week from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. It is being run in collaboration with the hospital, the Ontario Ministry of Health, Southwestern Public Health, and other community health care partners.
Unlike the two assessment centres in London, the one in Woodstock isn't allowing drive-up or drop-in visits. Instead, it is by referral only, with patients having to be directed there by either a family physician or nurse practitioner, TeleHealth Ontario, Southwestern Public Health, or by calling 1-855-905-6148 and following the instructions.
“Assessment centres are opening across the province in an effort to offer guidance and support for individuals with COVID-19 concerns, while reducing non-emergent cases heading to Emergency Departments,” Woodstock Hospital President and CEO Perry Lang said in a statement. “We will continue to closely monitor the COVID-19 situation in the community, and may adjust the assessment centre as required.”
Those referred to the assessment centre will be given an appointment time and are required to bring their health card or another form of identification. Parking fees for assessment centre patients have been waived, the hospital said.
COVID-19 tests will only be administered at the centre as directed by a physician.