ARNPRIOR – Based on the recommendations of the Ontario Medical Association, Arnprior Regional Health (ARH) has put in place a planned approach to postpone non-urgent surgeries, procedures, clinics and diagnostics effective March 20 until April 3.

This is a preventative measure to protect patients and staff against COVID-19.

“Careful planning was done to allow for a ramping down period of services this week,” ARH President and CEO Eric Hanna said. “The clinical team created a criterion to guide our physicians and staff to determine whether delaying a surgery, procedure, appointment or diagnostic test would medically-compromise a patient. If a delay would result in compromising a person’s health, then the medical intervention will proceed.”

The postponement of non-urgent clinical services will be revisited closer to April 3.

Currently, ARH and its Renfrew County health partners are finalizing plans to set up a Virtual Triage and Assessment Centre (VTAC). Renfrew County community members who do not have access to a family doctor will be able to call a toll-free number to have their urgent health concern triaged and if needed, they will be connected to a family doctor or nurse practitioner virtually. More details will be shared soon.

Patients are reminded to contact their family physician for non-urgent health matters to help ensure ARH maintains the Emergency Department’s capacity. If a community member has a question or concern about COVID-19, contact Renfrew County District Health Unit at 613-735-8653 ext. 555.