Ontario Health has recently expanded eligibility for COVID-19 PCR testing for symptomatic and asymptomatic people with defined criteria that has been updated on the Bracebridge Assessment Centre webpage at www.mahc.ca/COVID-19testing/.
Generally, the guidance is prioritizing for molecular testing those at the highest risk of COVID-19, by including, for example, all symptomatic people aged 70 and older and all people who are immunocompromised. Testing is also now available to asymptomatic individuals that meet specific defined criteria.
The Bracebridge Assessment Centre also continues to offer clinical assessments for COVID-19 or influenza-like illness to relieve pressure on the hospitals. Antiviral treatments for COVID-19 are available.
Individuals who are unwell with COVID symptoms and/or other respiratory symptoms or are at higher risk of severe COVID-19 should have a clinical assessment within five days of symptom onset to determine eligibility to receive medication treatment therapy. Individuals at higher risk would include those who are unvaccinated/partially vaccinated or individuals with any of the following risk factors:
- Obesity (BMI >30 kg/m2)
- Diabetes
- Heart disease, hypertension, congestive heart failure
- Chronic respiratory disease, including cystic fibrosis
- Cerebral palsy
- Intellectual disability
- Moderate or severe kidney disease (e.g. Child Pugh Class B or C cirrhosis)
- Unvaccinated pregnant individuals
The Bracebridge Assessment Centre is Muskoka’s only testing facility and operates by-appointment only for testing and for clinical assessments Monday to Friday, except for statutory hospitals. Appointments can be made by calling 1-888-383-7009 where eligibility criteria is also provided.
