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The Ottawa Hospital (TOH) has taken additional measures to ensure that patients impacted by COVID-19 can access the proper services for testing, and treatment.

As part of its plan to manage COVID-19 for the long-term, protect the most vulnerable and preserve hospital capacity, the Ontario government recently announced:

If patients have one or more of the following symptoms, they should immediately call 911 or go to the emergency department:

  • Severe difficulty breathing (struggling for each breath, can only speak in single words)
  • Severe chest pain (constant tightness or crushing sensation)
  • Loss of consciousness
  • Feeling confused or unsure of where you are losing consciousness

Assessment

Please note: The Ottawa Hospital Assessment Centre is now closed.

Treatment

As of April 24, Home and Community Care Support Services is the only location accepting referrals for infusion therapy. The form is available for all physicians and can be faxed to 613-745-6984 or 1-855-450-8569.

Who is eligible for antiviral treatment for COVID-19?

High-risk individuals, unvaccinated, immunocompromised or those who have underlying medical conditions may be eligible. A patient’s risk of serious illness is determined based on a combination of their health, age, and vaccination status, based on an assessment from a health care provider. Refer to the Ontario COVID-19 website for details regarding the eligibility criteria. Patients should speak to a health care provider to assess their eligibility. They can also use screener.

Treatment for antivirals must be started within five-seven days (depending on treatment) of when the patient’s symptoms began. Adults who are part of higher risk groups and who have COVID-19 symptoms (even if mild) should immediately seek testing and care by contacting their family doctor. If you meet the risk criteria for treatment with Paxlovid, your referring provider can submit a prescription to a participating pharmacy. 

If you meet the risk criteria for treatment with Paxlovid, your referring provider can submit a prescription to a participating pharmacy. If you require a different antiviral medication, a physician assessment form is required to verify eligibility. The form is available for all physicians and can be sent to our clinic through fax at 613-739-6751. For primary care providers, it is also available through the Ocean eReferral platform.

It is important to note that a medication safety review is required prior to the provision of any therapeutics.  A health care provider, often with a pharmacist, will decide if any changes to your regular medications are necessary before safely taking a COVID-19 treatment. Please note the assessment process may take up to a couple of days.

Last updated on: June 7th, 2023