Riverside Health Care will begin rapid antigen testing for COVID-19 at its long-term care facilities starting Monday.
The test, which can provide a result in a matter of minutes, is being used as a screening tool.
Designated caregivers will be required to take the test at least once over a seven-day period.
That’s on top of the required proof of a negative test within seven days of a visit.
Support workers and other visitors, once permitted, will also have to go through the same procedure.
Beginning March 8, all Riverside long-term care staff, volunteers and students will be administered rapid antigen tests two times a week.
Anyone who tests positive will need to get a diagnostic test at the Assessment Centre.
“We welcome having this additional tool in our toolkit to reduce the spread of COVID-19 into our long-term care homes and to protect our residents and those who care for them,” says Executive Vice President of Clinical Services & CNE, Julie Loveday.
All other safety procedures and protocols remain. This includes mask-wearing and keeping a safe distance from others.
Rapid testing will be onsite at Rainy River and Emo Health Centre. In Fort Frances, it will take place at the Assessment Centre’s Drive-Thru site. You must call to make an appointment there.
