A Physio's perspective: We are open!
Here's a brief summary. When a state of emergency was declared in Ontario back in March 17, 2020, Ontario quickly issued a COVID directive on March 19, 2020, restricting our patients to only urgent or emergency cases. As of May 26, 2020, Physiotherapists are now allowed to see all cases (https://www.collegept.org/docs/default-source/default-document-library/directive-2-may-26-2020.pdf?sfvrsn=e951dba1_2).
As of May 26, 2020, Physiotherapists are now allowed to see all cases.
So the quick answer is a resounding 'Yes'. You can now see your Physiotherapist!
With COVID-19 still in our rearview mirrors, many businesses are starting to re-open. This is great news! For many small businesses, such as myself, this has been a trying time. Even though Physiotherapists were deemed 'essential', the restrictions in our practice led many of us to close our doors - some permanently. Hopefully we can all do our part to support the many small and local businesses (not just physiotherapy) around us as we navigate our return to normalcy.
Is it safe to see my Physiotherapist?
Physiotherapists must follow strict guidelines set by Ontario's Chief Medical Officer. The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario has a nice summary here (https://www.collegept.org/coronavirus/covid-19-return-to-work). Here are some changes I will be making to my own small business:
Limiting In-Person Appointments - Encouraging virtual appointments when we are able to
Only Home Physiotherapy - To limit contact and to save people the trouble of leaving their homes
Disinfection - Treatment bed will be disinfected before and after each patient with substances complying with Health Canada recommendations (https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/drugs-health-products/disinfectants/covid-19/list.html#tbl1)
Hand Hygiene - Hand washing and Hand Sanitizers will be used before and after each patient
Personal Protective Equipment - We will be wearing masks and gloves when necessary
Symptom-free - We will be self-monitoring continuously but also screening patients before visits to make sure they don't have respiratory symptoms
In summary, I do believe that these procedures will allow for a safe reopening but of course I'm biased. I would encourage everyone to reflect on their own unique situations and health, and make their own decision from there. Wishing everyone health and safety as we start to reopen!
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