A new building outside Dundas Manor is making COVID-19 screening a lot easier on families and staff members.
The home has put a ‘Smart Testing Pod’ in its parking lot, the first of its kind in Eastern Ontario.
Rapid tests are being done on all essential caregivers and staff before they enter the long-term care facility.
The test can detect COVID-19 in 15-20 minutes, making it easier to identify potential cases that could otherwise be missed.
For Marilyn McCallum, who visits her mother several times a week, the new process is amazing.
“It’s been life changing for me,” she said. “It is so much faster than booking appointments at the Assessment Centre, going for the test, and then waiting up to four days for the results. It’s hard when you want to see your loved one, but you can’t. Now I can go and see my Mom when I want, without all the extra planning.”
Administrator Susan Poirier says they are currently mandated to test staff three times a week.
She notes that essential caregivers are also tested up to three times a week, depending on how often they visit.
“This new process will keep everyone safe – including our staff members who are giving the tests – and will reduce congestion inside the home,” she said.
Residents also continue to have regular COVID-19 tests as well, and all infection control precautions are still in place.
