Last updated November 15, 2021.
Moving forward, we are providing a mix of telehealth (phone/video) and in-person appointments. For now, in-person appointments cannot be offered to everyone, and are based on clinical need. If you agree to an in-person appointment, we need you to read and comply with the following information.
Most important
- Be mindful and respectful of our health and that of others, as we will be of your health.
- Understand the changes and policies below, and the risks and benefits of attending in-person.
- Before each appointment, you must self-screen for COVID-19 symptoms (see below).
- You must bring and wear a medical-grade mask; if you do not have one, one will be provided.
Obey all recommended hygiene and physical distancing practices.
- Ask questions. Be proactive in communicating with us.
Reducing close interpersonal contact
- Most appointments are via telehealth to limit the number of people in the office.
In-office appointments are mostly (though not always) spread out. Please be on time.
- Office layout changes have been made to allow for increased separation between people.
This averts the need for physical barriers but requires your cooperation.
- Don't bring others to your appointment without telling us beforehand.
Younger children who cannot remain seated independently cannot be accommodated.
Reducing touch
- Soft surface furniture has been reduced (yes, this includes the Kleenex couch).
- Paper, pens, reading material, etc. have been removed from the waiting room.
- Coffee, water, and other beverages will no longer be offered (you can bring your own).
- Most forms will be sent to you via email to be completed and returned in advance of appointments.
- Most prescriptions will be faxed directly to your pharmacy.
- Most lab requisitions will be sent directly to LifeLabs.
- Use of appointment reminder cards, paper receipts, and printed handouts is reduced.
Cleanliness and disinfection
- Comply with all recommended hygiene guidelines, e.g. hand-washing.
- Hand sanitizer, tissues, and garbage cans are available as you enter and throughout the office.
Sayward Building policies and protocols
- The building front door is usually unlocked 9am–3pm. A security guard is present who will ask who you're there to see. If the door is locked when you arrive, please call or text (250-483-7641) and Mark will let you in.
- Elevators use is limited to two people at a time.
- Washrooms can be used by only one person at a time.
- Cleaning throughout the building has been enhanced.
- HVAC systems are running extended hours with enhanced air filtration.
COVID-19 Self-Screen
The day prior to your appointment, review the following questions. If you answer 'YES' to any of them, notify us immediately, as your appointment may have to be changed. We will also ask you to review these questions when you enter our office for your appointment.
- Do you have any of the following symptoms?
- Fever
- Chills
- New or worsening cough
- Shortness of breath
- New muscle aches or headache
- Sore throat
- Have you travelled outside of Canada within the last 14 days?
- Are you in close contact of a person who tested positive for COVID-19?
If you have other concerns, you can try the BC Ministry of Health's COVID-19 Self-Assessment Tool or call 8-1-1.
This plan was created after consulting recommendations from Worksafe BC, Doctors of BC, the Provincial Health Services Authority, and others. This document is not meant to be inclusive and states only the highlights of the plan. As our understanding of COVID-19 changes with time, this plan will change accordingly.
While we are taking precautions to prevent the spread of COVID-19, we cannot guarantee that you will not become infected. Attending in-person appointments may increase your risk of contracting COVID-19, especially if you are over 65-year's old or have an underlying physical health condition. By attending, you voluntarily assume this increased risk of exposure or potential infection with COVID-19.