COVID-19 Information for RMTs

Monday, March 16, 2020 2:22:00 PM

BlogImage

We want to support our members during this time of COVID-19 by ensuring that you're staying informed and consulting credible resources.

The information about this situation is rapidly changing and we will keep you updated with new information as it becomes available. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is expected to make an announcement this afternoon with further information. 

The Ministry of Health's COVID-19 website is updated twice daily at 10:30am and 5:30pm.

The Ministry of Health's COVID-19 website for health workers and healthcare employers now includes guidance for specific health sectors and posters with information for patients and visitors.

Other resources:

Travel advisories:

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19): Travel advice
Current advisory: An official global travel advisory is in effect: Avoid non-essential travel outside Canada until further notice.

Protecting ourselves and others:

  • Wash your hands often with soap and water or alcohol-based hand sanitizer
  • Sneeze and cough into your sleeve
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth
  • Avoid contact with people who are sick
  • Do not touch your face when in public spaces and wash your hands immediately after
  • Stay home if you are sick

Your RMT Practice

Some of our members have opted to close their practices temporarily to protect themselves and their clients. The current information from the Ministry of Health, Health Canada and the WHO does not indicate that this is necessary at this time, if proper and frequent hygiene is practiced. If the advisories change, we will be sure to update our members.

RMTs are able to implement policies to not treat patients that are showing flu-like symptoms. You can also impliment a policy to not treat individuals who have been outside of Canada for the past 14 days. The Ministry of Health recommends you undertake active screening (asking questions about symptoms and travel/exposures) , which can be done over the phone before the patient arrives, and passive screening (signage) of patients for COVID-19. 

Symptoms to look for:

According to Health Canada, symptoms can include:

  • Fever
  • Cough
  • Shortness of breath

What to do if you develop symptoms and fit the case definition of a probable case of COVID-19:

  • Step 1: Isolate yourself within the home as quickly as possible
  • Step 2: Call Telehealth Ontario: 1-866-797-0000
  • Step 3: Contact your public health unit
  • Step 4: If advised, visit an assessment centre

If you wish to contact the RMTAO, please email info@rmtao.com as the RMTAO staff may not be available by phone.

Tags: update, covid19, news