Oak Bay Medical Centre

 NOTICE TO ALL PATIENTS

Dear Valued Patients,
On March 1, 2022, the province of Alberta effectively relaxed many of the Covid-19 pandemic restrictions that had been implemented to reduce the spread of the virus. These relaxations have been reflected within our own office. Masks are no longer required in medical facilities that are not Alberta Health Services Contracted Facilities. While many medical practices still encourage patients to wear masks, they are not mandatory in community medical practices, and a patient cannot be denied service on the basis of inability or refusal to wear a mask.
 
However, we do very much understand that some individuals will feel some apprehension about visiting locales that may be relatively crowded. We ask that these patients read some of the suggestions listed below. 
 
GUIDELINES FOR PATIENTS WHO ARE VISITING THE OFFICE:
• Patients can continue to choose to wear a mask, if this is their preference, and can supply a mask if a patient is in need of one.
• A patient can choose the option of waiting in their vehicle until the office can accommodate a patient in our examination rooms.
• Our office will continue to attempt to accommodate patients for concerns of routine/less-urgent nature by telephone or secure patient email.
 
Our respective staff can be accessed at the following extensions:
Dial 1 – Dr. Ferrao, Dr. Yosefi
Dial 2 – Dr. Arcega, Dr. Caine, Dr. Forsyth, Dr. Penkman
Dial 215 – Dr. Salem
 
GUIDELINES FOR PATIENTS WHO THINK THEY HAVE COVID-19:
• If you are sick with mild symptoms (cough, runny nose, sore throat), stay at home. Follow the self-isolation guidelines of Alberta.
• If you have respiratory symptoms (like a cough, fever, or difficulty breathing) and you think you need to see a doctor, CALL FIRST, BEFORE COMING TO THE CLINIC.
 
VIRTUAL CARE:
A virtual care module called Medeo Virtual Healthcare is now being utilized by most of our physicians. The app is available for all tablet and smartphone platforms. Patients will be required to create an account to access this service. Also note that virtual care is not appropriate for all health related concerns and patients may be asked to be assessed in the office. We do ask that patients ensure they check their notifications/messages when a communication is sent, as the content of our communications may be important or time-sensitive.
 
COVID VACCINATION:
At present, our office DOES carry some of the Health Canada approved Covid-19 vaccinations. However, injection dates are sporadically booked in order to efficiently utilize the supply of vaccination and reduce wasting of doses. The availability of these injections may change at a future date.
 
GENERAL CLOSING COMMENTS:
• We continue to monitor information and recommendations from local, provincial, and federal public health units and will adjust our practices accordingly.
• Thank you for your patience and understanding.
 
For further information on what you should do in the case of illness, please visit:
 
Updated – April 4, 2022