Yesterday, the Ontario Government announced there will be a provincewide shutdown at 12:01 a.m. on Saturday, December 26, 2020. This shutdown will put in place time-limited public health and workplace safety measures similar to those in other jurisdictions already in lockdown. This shutdown will last:
- At least 28 days in southern Ontario (any regions south of North Bay and Parry Sound)
- At least 14 days in northern Ontario (any regions north of North Bay and Parry Sound, including North Bay and Parry Sound)
What this means for occupational therapists
No further restrictions on occupational therapy practice have been announced to date. Occupational therapists and other regulated health professionals may continue to operate, consistent with current guidelines for regulated health professionals. View the College's Return to Work Guidance for OTs.
Occupational therapists are reminded to continue to adhere to requirements of provincial Directive 2 and the accompanying COVID-19 Operational Requirements: Health Sector Restart for guiding principles when making decisions about service delivery. Directive 2 requires that health care providers continue to monitor COVID-19 spread in their community and when choosing service delivery models (in-person, virtual or modified services). To obtain this information, occupational therapists can use data sources including:
As a reminder, virtual services are recommended when appropriate. If in-person services are required, occupational therapists need to wear proper personal protective equipment (PPE) at all times. Continued adherence with all public health measures, including handwashing, masking and physical distancing, is expected when at work and in the community.
If you have any questions, please contact our Practice team at [email protected] or 1-800-890-6570 ext 240. We are available to assist you until noon on December 24 before closing until January 4, 2021 at 8:00 a.m.
You can also visit our COVID-19 web page for additional resources and information or contact your local public health unit for specific details about COVID-19 management in your community. Please continue to check the Ministry of Health website for the most current COVID-19 guidance and information. You can learn more about the shutdown on the Ontario government website.
We thank all registrants for their continued commitment to the delivery of safe, ethical occupational therapy services. Your professionalism and dedication are appreciated.