File photo of Christine Elliott by Mark Brown, Blackburn News.File photo of Christine Elliott by Mark Brown, Blackburn News.
Windsor

Ontario steps up COVID-19 measures

Ontario's response to COVID-19 is expanding the day after the World Health Organization declared a global pandemic.

Last week, the province introduced a new Command Table to lead Ontario's response to the virus. Thursday, it announced the creation of assessment centres in six hospitals, a public education campaign, and increased capacity to test patients.

Over the coming days, the first wave of assessment centres will open at Brampton Civic Hospital, The Ottawa Hospital, North York General, Mackenzie Health, Scarborough Health Network, and Trillium Health Partners. The hospitals are all in areas where a growing number of people are being tested for the virus.

A release from the government said more assessment centres would be announced in the coming weeks.

"While we have so far effectively contained new cases of this virus, we are relentlessly focused on planning for any scenario," said Health Minister Christine Elliott.

New OHIP billing codes for telephone assessments will allow doctors to diagnose patients over the phone instead of in their clinics.

The province will add an online self-assessment tool to its dedicated COVID-19 webpage.

With an increase in calls to Telehealth anticipated, Ontario has committed additional resources. A review of virtual care is being conducted, and early planning is underway to implement a way patients can test for the virus at home.

With the increase in testing, the province is collaborating with Public Health Ontario and Ontario Health to expand capacity at laboratories. Residents can expect to see ads on social media, in print and on the radio to educate the public on how they can remain healthy. Under updated guidelines at long-term care homes, all staff, volunteers, family members, and new and returning residents will be screened.

Wednesday, the Ontario government announced up to $100 million for a COVID-19 Contingency Fund. Also, Ontario is extending a one-time 10 per cent boost in municipal funding for public health units into 2021.

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