The College continues to monitor the status of the COVID-19 pandemic closely and takes direction from BC’s Provincial Health Officer (PHO), the BC Centre for Disease Control, and the Ministry of Health.

Effective November 19, 2020, new orders and restrictions were announced by the PHO, including orders about mask use.

Masks (non-medical) must by worn by everyone in all shared indoor settings and workplaces, unless they are in a screened or private work area.

Dr. Henry stressed the importance in all workplaces to ensure that their safety plans are up to date, and advised that there will be increased inspection of workplaces.

For Registrants, this means that safety plans based on the College “Guidelines for return to practice “ must continue to be followed rigorously, including all screening.

Registrants are reminded that non-essential travel is now restricted across BC, particularly travel outside one’s immediate community. Travel for work purposes is considered essential travel, but may entail additional risk.

Daily self-assessment with the BC COVID-19 Self-Assessment Tool is required.

The College encourages open, honest discussions between Registrants and patients about risk, and steps taken by both to reduce risk. Dr. Henry observed that the transmission of the COVID-19 virus in sectors that are following safety protocols is very low.

Registrants must recommit to their safety procedures and the PHO’s orders, diligently and without exception.

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