Outpatient services are being reduced by the North Shore Health Network, which oversees health care in the Blind River area.
Network safety coordinator Melanie Kubatlija says starting today, there will be limitations on lab testing, medical imaging and physiotherapy.
She says only essential lab or medical imaging will take place for urgent or life-threatening cases.
Kubatlija adds people who require urgent physiotherapy, will have to call the department.
She emphasizes screening is taking place through the main entrance for all outpatients who will be provided with a mask to be worn while inside the facility.
Laboratory: Essential or urgent testing is available by appointment only for high-risk patients between 7:00 am and 12:00 pm Monday – Friday. Patients who require non-urgent testing are advised to attend Dyna Care in Elliot Lake or any LifeLabs location. To schedule an appointment for essential or urgent testing, contact the department 705-356-2265 ext. 2580.
Medical Imaging: Services will only be provided for life-threatening and essential emergencies. All routine requisitions will be completed at a later date. To schedule an appointment for an urgent service, contact the department 705-356-2265 ext. 2570.
Physiotherapy: Essential services only at this time, including patients who require urgent rehabilitation (e.g. after surgery, cast removal, a sudden increase in falls) to avoid visits to the Emergency Department. Patients must contact the department at 705-356-2265 ext. 2480.
Nurse Practitioner Clinic: Patient visits will take place virtually or by phone. Orphan patients (individuals who do not have a family provider) may also access this service. To book an appointment please call 705-356-2265 ext. 2616 and leave your name and contact information, or send an email to [email protected].
Outpatients who require assistance and are attending the hospital for diagnostic appointments are permitted to have one designated person accompany them.