RMH tests 800 people for COVID-19 so far; paramedics start in-home assessments

During this challenging time, our team’s primary focus is on COVID-19 preparation. We have seen a significant increase in the need for assessment and testing over the last few weeks, and have been working hard to meet that need.

The RMH clinical team has assessed more than 800 individuals since March 15, including 305 virtual/phone assessments, and more than 500 in-person assessments. Of those, 115 individuals have been swabbed for COVID-19.

Starting today, March 24, RMH will be able to book appointments for in-home assessment and testing by Kawartha Lakes Paramedic Services, for those callers who do not have access to a vehicle.

RMH is grateful to the community for taking the recommendations of Public Health seriously. “With confirmed community spread of COVID-19, we urge everyone to follow the government’s advice,” says Veronica Nelson, Interim President and CEO,” and that includes social distancing and whenever possible, self-isolation, so that together, we can flatten the curve.”

COVID-19 Assessment and Care

Concerned community members are encouraged to complete the interactive self-assessment tool online at ca/coronavirus, and, if indicated, call Telehealth at 1-866-797-000 or HKPR Health Unit at 1-866-888-4577 ext. 5020 for advice on next steps.

If referred by Telehealth, Public Health, or other care provider, please contact the RMH COVID-19 Assessment Centre. The phone lines are open 7 days a week, from 8am-4pm, at 705-328-6217. Clinical staff can provide advice on next steps, which may include self-monitoring, self-isolation, in-home assessment by paramedics, or proceeding to our offsite location or to the emergency department for further assessment and/or testing. Access to their offsite location is by appointment only.

RMH has established a dedicated unit to care for patients with suspected or confirmed COVID-19, and has plans in place to scale up our care areas based on demand.

RMH is accepting Personal Protective Equipment (P.P.E.) donations

RMH is working with regional and provincial partners to procure a steady supply of P.P.E. However, global supply chains have been interrupted by this pandemic, and supplies are back-ordered and/or capped in Canada. The Hospital is accepting donations of unopened/unused surgical masks, N95 respirator masks, gloves, and waterproof gowns to support our front-line workers. Any community businesses, including dental offices, medical offices, veterinarians, and construction businesses that may have supplies available can contact Christine Wood at or 705-324-6111 ext. 4628 to arrange.

RMH Foundation launches ‘Heroes at Heart’ fund

Ross Memorial Hospital Foundation has established a special fund, called Heroes at Heart, to support urgent equipment and technology needs as the Ross responds to the pandemic. To support the COVID-19 response at RMH, give to the Heroes at Heart fund by phone (705-328-6146), by email () or online (www.rmh.org/foundation). Frontline caregivers are local heroes and so are those who support their difficult work.

Limiting patients, visitors and entrances

There are several enhanced measures in place at the hospital, including visitor and entrance restrictions. Active screening is in place for all who enter the building, including temperature readings. We have postponed many of our elective appointments and procedures, and whenever possible, are staying in touch with patients through virtual methods.

News, resources and current patient and visitor restrictions can be found here.