Updated: March 4, 2021
Dear patients,
These are difficult and uncertain times. We know that all of you have given up a lot during this pandemic, and we thank you. Many of us are feeling stressed and worried. You are not alone. As family doctors, we are here to help you.
Our offices are open. We now offer visits by phone or video, but we can also see patients in person. These changes allow us to keep you and our staff safe from the virus. More information on these changes can be found on the Ontario College of Family Physicians (OCFP) website. If you or a family member do not have a family doctor, the OCFP also has some tips on how to get the care you need. Please call us for all of your health concerns.
Sometimes it can be hard to ask for help. There are many support tools you can use. You can find them on the websites of Ottawa Public Health, Eastern Ontario Health Unit, Renfrew County and District Health Unit and Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit, the OCFP, and the Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario (CHEO). Please call us if you are feeling stressed or overwhelmed. We can help.
Many people have questions about the COVID-19 vaccine. The vaccines are safe and will help us return to our normal lives. Until then, we must keep wearing masks, staying at least 2 m apart, and staying home when we are sick. Right now, vaccines are being given to those who need them most. This includes people working or living in long-term care and retirement homes, healthcare workers and the elderly. You will soon be able to book an appointment for your vaccine online or by phone based on your age and other factors. This rollout is described in Ontario’s vaccination plan. We will all have a chance to be vaccinated. Please check your local news and public health unit’s website to find out when it is your turn to make a booking. Vaccines will be given at a site near your home, not at your family doctor’s office at this time. If you need help booking your appointment, please call us. You can find out more on the website of your public health unit (Ottawa Public Health, Eastern Ontario Health Unit, Renfrew County and District Health Unit or Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit). If you have other questions, please contact your family doctor.
Remember that you can contact us any time. We are always here to care for you.
Sincerely,
Your Family Doctor
In partnership with:
Clare Liddy MD, MSc, CCFP, FCFP
Chair | Full Professor
University of Ottawa Department of Family Medicine
Vera Etches MD, MHSc, CCFP, FRCPC
Medical Officer of Health
Ottawa Public Health
Download the letter co-signed by the DFM and OPH (PDF)
Download the template (bilingual, Word document)
For media inquiries:
Paul Logothetis
Media Relations Officer
University of Ottawa
613-863-7221
plogothe@uottawa.ca