The following advisory from Eastern Health contains information for CUPE members in the Eastern Health district
Eastern Health advises the public that a new temporary phone line is now available for individuals who have questions about the status of their hospital appointments.
Due to service reductions related to COVID-19 emergency planning, patients and clients can call 709-752-4500, or toll-free at 1-833-752-4500, from Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., to inquire if their previously scheduled hospital appointment is going ahead or is cancelled; or if it is being rescheduled.
At this time, Eastern Health is focusing on the delivery of urgent and emergent services. Questions about appointments for elective and non-urgent procedures and treatments at any of Eastern Health hospitals and acute care centres should be directed to this new phone line.
Clients whose health appointments are in the community are being contacted directly by their health-care provider.
This temporary phone line does not provide health advice or COVID-19 screening information.
Individuals who are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19, or have come in contact with someone who has fever, cough or difficulty breathing, should complete the online self-assessment at www.811healthline.ca before calling the NL Health Line 811. If you are not seriously ill, do not go to an emergency department or doctors’ office.
Eastern Health reminds the public of the importance of good infection prevention and control practices. Everyday preventive actions that can help to prevent the spread of respiratory viruses like COVID-19 include:
- Washing your hands often.
- Avoiding contact with people who are sick.
- Practice proper cough and sneeze etiquette. Cover your mouth and nose with your arm when coughing and sneezing and immediately dispose of used tissues in the trash.
- Avoiding touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands.
- Taking reasonable steps to practice social distancing.