Region of Waterloo Public Health has provided an update on COVID-19, and testing was a topic.
“I am pleased to announce that beginning today, as per provincial guidance, all residents with symptoms will be eligible for testing,” said Acting Medical Officer of Health Dr. Hsiu Li Wang.
With help from their partners, they have completed testing at long-term care facilities in Waterloo Region, which means there is the capacity to test symptomatic residents.
Across Ontario, testing labs have been expanded, with the province improving their overall lab system. “They have indicated to (Region of Waterloo) they have the capacity,” said Dr. Wang.
There are five assessment locations in Waterloo Region, three are located at area hospitals, and the other two are within the community, and all of them take referrals from primary care physicians.
Their website has self-assessment tools from the province, which can streamline testing, and make it easier for residents experiencing symptoms.
“It will allow them to connect with a primary care provider virtually, and ultimately get a referral from one of their assessment centres,” said Dr. Wang.
For more information on assessment centre locations click here.
