People in St. Thomas who feel they need to be tested for COVID-19 can now go to the city's assessment centre without getting a referral from a physician first.
The St. Thomas Elgin General Hospital announced Monday afternoon it is expanding access to the centre, which is located off of Hepburn Avenue. The decision to open up is in response to the provincial government's promise that everyone in Ontario who wants a test will receive one, regardless of whether or not they are exhibiting symptoms of the virus.
In order to handle the expected increase in demand for testing, hours of operation at the assessment centre are being expanded to 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily between May 27 to June 3. Those wanting to be tested will have to book an appointment as the location doesn’t allow drive-up or drop-in visits.
When the assessment centre was originally established inside the hospital on April 15 patients had to be referred for COVID-19 testing by a primary care provider or the local health unit.
Appointments for COVID-19 testing at the centre can be made by calling 519-631-2030 ext. 6210.
