Reach out to patients to let them know you are open and remind them to stay on top of their medical concerns. We have set up resources for physicians and clinics to help get this word out.

Ensure your reception staff are screening patients who call in to ensure patients can be cared for in the appropriate setting at the appropriate time. As needed, consider scheduling appointment times for additional virtual triage. When the phone cannot be answered, use a voicemail message with clear instructions and monitor regularly.

Where clinically appropriate, offer virtual visits to patients via phone or video. This reduces traffic coming into your office while also helping to conserve PPE. Review our Virtual Care Resources.

Posters on your door warns visitors with symptoms to take precautions. Download and print posters from Shared Health.

Ensure PPE is available and utilized based on current provincial requirements. Have procedure masks and sanitizer available for patients with symptoms, with controls to minimize theft. Review our PPE resource page to learn more about provincial guidelines and how to order PPE.

Reinforce patient screening on entry, directing visitors to the appropriate area and ensuring anyone with symptoms wears a mask and cleans their hands. If a separate waiting area and PPE are not available, patients should be screened while maintaining a 2‑metre distance.

Patients with cold/​flu symptoms and their escorts should be separated to avoid cohorting with asymptomatic patients. 

This includes adjusting your waiting room and reception layout to spread people out. A 6‑foot distance between individuals is recommended. Consider asking patients who travel by car to wait in their vehicles until called or texted. Consider alternating in-person and virtual care visits in the schedule to decrease volumes. Review:

Public Advice on social distancing 

Advice for health facility staff on social distancing

See our guide to Stay Well During the Pandemic for a checklist of tips. For physicians and staff who may be sick, follow the current advice from occupational health.

Regularly wipe down frequently touched common surfaces, such as door knobs and reception areas with appropriate disinfectants. Clean patient exam rooms after visits. Follow routine practices and other provincial infection prevention and control advice.

Consider waiving cancellation fees for patients with symptoms and not offering sick notes for cold/​flu during the pandemic. Consider sending other sick notes by mail. These steps can reduce non-essential visits.

Experts are learning more every day and public health advice and protocols are changing frequently. Visit our COVID resource site for physicians or Shared Health resources for current advice.