Registrants are reminded that the provincial health officer (PHO) continues to recommend infection prevention and control measures to limit the transmission of COVID-19 in community practice. The guidance is based on the latest best practice and scientific evidence and is updated as more information becomes available.
The guidance includes a hierarchy of IPC measures to help create a safe environment for health-care providers, their staff and patients. This includes regular cleaning and disinfection, screening for COVID-19 risks, ensuring appropriate ventilation, staying home when sick, practising diligent hand hygiene, and the appropriate use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
The PHO issued this letter to the registrars of colleges of health professionals in April noting that medical mask use by both practitioners and patients in medical offices is still recommended. Registrants are reminded to check the BCCDC website to ensure they are aware of the most recent guidance related to COVID-19.