This informational column was submitted to PrinceGeorgeMatters from Dr. Catherine Textor, Physician Lead and Board Chair of the Prince George Division of Family Practice.
Doctors in Prince George have made changes to the way we see our patients, to help you stay safe from COVID-19, and to ensure that we and our office staff stay safe as well.
We know that a lot of people are concerned about going to their physician's office or going to the emergency room during this difficult time, but we want to emphasize how important it is for people to make sure they are receiving ongoing care from their family doctor.
We can provide virtual care—over the phone or by video call—for most conditions, and prescribe medications this way as well. If an in-person visit is needed, our offices will arrange that too, in a way that will be safe.
If you have a health issue of any kind, please phone your family doctor’s office as you would normally do.
Please DO NOT go to the office for a drop-in appointment or to book an appointment.
The office staff will work with you to determine whether the doctor can provide you with a virtual care visit, or, if necessary, book a time when you can safely see the doctor in person.
If you do not have a family doctor (or your doctor is not available) please contact the Urgent Primary Care Centre (former Nechako Medical Clinic) at 250-645-6912, or Salveo Clinic at 250-614-0005, whichever your preference would normally be.
These clinics are also offering virtual appointments or can see you in person if that is necessary.
Doctors and staff at these clinics will be in communication with your family doctor’s office.
If you are mildly or moderately symptomatic with a cough, fever, sore throat, vomiting, or diarrhea:
- Do not enter a health care facility
- Call your doctor’s office first as instructed above. Self-isolate immediately (refer to www.bccdc.ca website for instructions on how to do this)
- A useful self-assessment tool to help you decide if you need further assessment or testing for COVID-19 can be found at https://bc.thrive.health/
If you have questions related to COVID-19 other resources include:
- Call the Northern Health virtual COVID-19 clinic and information line at 1-844-645-7811
- Check for current information on COVID-19 at www.northernhealth.ca
Thank you for doing your part to prevent the spread of COVID-19, including practicing strict social distancing if you are well and strict self-isolation if you are unwell—this will help keep us all safe.
It is important during this challenging time that you continue to address your medical issues with your family doctor, especially if you have a chronic condition.
Receiving care from the doctor who knows you best, and who is familiar with your medical history ensures this information is taken into account.
As always, if you have shortness of breath, cannot speak in full sentences, chest pain or pressure, drowsiness or confusion or any other urgent medical problem, please proceed directly to UHNBC Emergency Dept. or call 911.
