COVID-19 Assessment Centre and Care Clinics

Last revised - August 04, 2020

COVID-19 Care Clinics

The COVID-19 Care Clinics are out-of-hospital clinics where people will be assessed by a healthcare provider, tested, and treated for respiratory illness, if required. The clinics are run by local hospitals in partnership with the City of Ottawa, primary care physicians, community pediatricians, the regional COVID-19 planning team and Ottawa Public Health. They are equipped to do basic diagnostic tests, such as chest X-rays and lab tests. 

The Champlain Health Regional Incident Command’s COVID-19 Response Committee (CCRC) and Ottawa Public Health (OPH) are working together to implement the Ontario Ministry of Health’s policies on testing priorities across Ottawa.

OPH investigates confirmed COVID-19 cases and ensures that those who need testing are able to access it through healthcare partners.

The CCRC staffs, operates and manages the Assessment Centre at Brewer Park Arena and the two (2) COVID Care Clinics (Moodie and Heron locations) through local hospitals. In addition, the CCRC is responsible for organizing and administering testing priorities for the region.  

Any questions related to the Assessment Centre or Care Clinic sites - the policies or procedures  at the sites, professional conduct of staff at the sites, the type of tests administered, availability of test results, hours of operation, maintenance, line management/volume, or any other aspect of the testing sites - should be directed to testinginquiries@toh.ca.

Protecting Ontarians through Enhanced Testing outlines the Province’s testing plan. Questions related to this provincial strategy can be submitted through an online form.

You should come to the COVID-19 Care Clinics if:

  • You have escalating symptoms of respiratory illness, including a fever or worsening cough and flu-like symptoms, and
  • Are in need of medical attention

See the criteria for testing here.

Location and hours:

COVID-19 Care Clinic – Moodie Location
595 Moodie Drive
Monday to Friday, 9 am to 3:30 pm

Note: The easiest way to access the West COVID Care Clinic is to access Moodie Drive from Hunt Club.  The alternative is to use Old Richmond Rd and then turn on to Arnold Drive to access Moodie Drive.

 

COVID-19 Care Clinic – Heron Location
1485 Heron Road
Monday to Friday, 9 am to 3:30 pm

Note: The clinic is located on the corner of Heron and Baycrest, in the same compound as the Federal Study Centre

 

For more details about the services provided and what to expect/prepare for, see below:

  • These facilities are experiencing a significant increase in volume, resulting in longer wait times.
  • Depending on the time of day, the wait could be 2 – 4 hours.
  • Expect to wait outdoors for a period of time: consider bringing water, sunscreen, and a chair or umbrella if needed to help you beat the heat.
  • You will be asked to wear a face mask and physically distance, both in line and within the testing facility.
  • Staff and physicians regularly walk the line and check for vulnerable patients and may move them forward to prioritize their visit.
  • Swabbing results are usually available from the laboratory within an average of 1-2 days, however, it could extend as long as 3 – 5 days due to circumstances beyond our control. You will be given a link to go online to check your results and will receive a phone call if you test positive.

Children over 6 months of age can be assessed and tested for COVID-19 at either an assessment centre or a Care clinic, children under 6 months of age need to be taken to CHEO. Children under the age of 2 years who are in need of medical treatment for escalating symptoms of respiratory illness should be taken to CHEO.

If you are in distress (e.g., significant trouble breathing, chest pain, fainting, or have a significant worsening of any chronic disease symptoms), do not go to the Assessment Centre or a COVID-19 Care Clinic. Go to the nearest Emergency Department or call 9-1-1.

The Care Clinic will help people get treatment they require for respiratory illness, while helping keep Emergency Departments for emergencies.

Frequently asked questions about the COVID-19 care clinics

Who can go to the COVID-19 Care Clinic?
Any Ottawa resident who feels they need a test, even if they are not showing symptoms, can go for testing at the COVID-19 Assessment Centre or COVID-19 Care Clinics and should not be turned away, unless volumes are significant. If so, priority will be given to residents from high-risk groups and those showing symptoms. 

Anyone in need of medical care for escalating symptoms of respiratory illness – cough, fever and cold-like symptoms should come to one of the cinics. This includes children 2 years and over.

Who should NOT go to the COVID-19 Care Clinic?

People who are in distress (e.g. significant trouble breathing, chest pain, fainting, or have a significant worsening of any chronic disease symptoms) should go to the nearest Emergency Department.

I have questions regarding testing in Ottawa, who should I contact?

In Ottawa, the Champlain COVID-19 Response Committee (CCRC), under the direction of Ontario Health, is responsible for developing and implementing a regional testing strategy. The CCRC staffs, operates and manages the Assessment Centre and the two (2) COVID Care Clinics with local hospitals. CCRC is also responsible for organizing and administering testing priorities for the region.   Should you have questions or comments regarding testing, please contact testinginquiries@toh.ca.

What role does OPH play in testing?

The Champlain Health Regional Incident Command (CHRIC) and Ottawa Public Health (OPH) are working collaboratively to implement the Ontario Ministry of Health’s policies on testing priorities across Ottawa. OPH investigates confirmed COVID-19 cases and ensures that those who need testing are able to access it through healthcare partners. 
If my symptoms are serious, do I still go to the Care Clinic?
No. If you are in distress (e.g. significant trouble breathing, chest pain, fainting, or have a significant worsening of any chronic disease symptoms), go to the nearest Emergency Department.
Are the clinics accessible to people in wheelchairs?
The COVID-19 Care Clinic – Ottawa West is wheelchair accessible.
Do I need to be referred by Public Health or a Physician? Do I need an appointment?
No, you do not.  However, if you have a Family Physician, please contact them first.  If you are in need of urgent care, please go directly to the nearest Emergency Department.
Can I come to the clinic if I’m not from Ontario? 
Please follow instructions from your local health authority. Other regional health authorities outside of Ottawa are working on screening and treatment strategies. 
What do I need to bring with me?
Please bring your health card, a list of your current medications, and anything else that you might need while you wait to be assessed. Wait times will depend on patient volume and may be several hours.
Do I need to pay for the visit?
There is no cost to you.  Please bring evidence of your health coverage, such as your OHIP card.
How can I get there?
The best way to get there is to use your own transportation. If it's not possible, you can also take a taxi/Uber.  Please be sure to sit in the back seat, wear a mask, and keep the window open. Please follow all parking instructions on site.
What will happen when I get there?
You will likely have to wait in line. Please be sure to stand 2 meters (6 feet) away from the person in front of you, and cough into your sleeve, if needed. Once inside, everyone will be asked to sanitize their hands and put on a mask at the entrance. You will be assessed by a nurse initially, and then have a seat in a waiting area.  When it is your turn, a physician and nurse will assess your condition, proceed to a test if needed, and either provide treatment or recommend treatments at home.  Some patients may be given an x-ray or other basic diagnostic tests.  More advanced testing would require a hospital visit.

Am I allowed to bring someone to keep me company?

To be able to ensure everyone’s safety, no visitors are allowed with the patient, unless for compassionate reasons.
Do you treat children?
Yes. However, children under the age of two years should be taken to CHEO.
Should I come in if I am older or have a suppressed immune system?
If you meet the criteria for treatment at the COVID-19 Care Clinic noted above, you should come to the clinic. Everyone will sanitize their hands and put on a mask immediately on arriving at the Clinic. 
How do you keep people safe?
Areas for assessment and treatment will be kept separate to reduce the risk of spreading infection. We will be following the same cleaning protocols as hospitals.  Everyone will be asked to sanitize their hands and put on a mask at the entrance.  Chairs in waiting areas will be appropriately separated.  Please also be mindful to avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth unless you have just cleaned your hands.  Please be sure to keep two meters (6 feet) distance between you and other people, and to cough/sneeze into your sleeve.

I was tested at the Care Clinic. How will I get my results?

Your test results for COVID-19 (and only this test) will be available at covid-19.ontario.ca. You will need to provide information such as your Ontario Health Card Number, your name, and date of birth, in order to access your results online.

COVID-19 Assessment Centre

The first COVID-19 Assessment Centre is now open. The COVID-19 Assessment Centre is an out-of-hospital clinic where people will be assessed by a health-care provider and tested for COVID-19 if required. It is operated by The Ottawa Hospital (TOH) and CHEO, in partnership with Ottawa Public Health (OPH) and the City of Ottawa.

The Champlain Health Regional Incident Command’s COVID-19 Response Committee (CCRC) and Ottawa Public Health (OPH) are working together to implement the Ontario Ministry of Health’s policies on testing priorities across Ottawa.

OPH investigates confirmed COVID-19 cases and ensures that those who need testing are able to access it through healthcare partners.

The CCRC staffs, operates and manages the Assessment Centre at Brewer Park Arena and the two (2) COVID Care Clinics (Moodie and Heron locations) through local hospitals. In addition, the CCRC is responsible for organizing and administering testing priorities for the region.  

Any questions related to the Assessment Centre or Care Clinic sites - the policies or procedures  at the sites, professional conduct of staff at the sites, the type of tests administered, availability of test results, hours of operation, maintenance, line management/volume, or any other aspect of the testing sites - should be directed to testinginquiries@toh.ca.

Protecting Ontarians through Enhanced Testing outlines the Province’s testing plan. Questions related to this provincial strategy can be submitted through an online form.

See the criteria for testing here.

Important: You do NOT need to contact Ottawa Public Health before going to an assessment centre.

Location and hours:

Brewer Park Arena
151 Brewer Way 
Open 9 am to 3:30 pm, 7 days a week

Note: Accessed from Bronson Avenue opposite Carleton University

Note: For Inuit wishing to access COVID-19 assessment and testing, please contact Akausivik Inuit Family Health Team for an appointment. Services offered in Inuktitut and English.

Akausivik Inuit Family Health Team (AIFHT) 
24 Selkirk Street, Suite 300
Telephone: 613-740-0999
Open 9 am to 5 pm, Monday to Friday

For more details about the services provided and what to expect/prepare for, see below:

  • These facilities are experiencing a significant increase in volume, resulting in longer wait times.
  • Depending on the time of day, the wait could be 2 – 4 hours.
  • Expect to wait outdoors for a period of time: consider bringing water, sunscreen, and a chair or umbrella if needed to help you beat the heat.
  • You will be asked to wear a face mask and physically distance, both in line and within the testing facility.
  • Staff and physicians regularly walk the line and check for vulnerable patients and may move them forward to prioritize their visit.
  • Swabbing results are usually available from the laboratory within an average of 1-2 days, however, it could extend as long as 3 – 5 days due to circumstances beyond our control. You will be given a link to go online to check your results and will receive a phone call if you test positive.

Children over 6 months of age can be assessed and tested for COVID-19 at either an assessment centre or a Care clinic, children under 6 months of age need to be taken to CHEO. Children under the age of 2 years who are in need of medical treatment for escalating symptoms of respiratory illness should be taken to CHEO.

If you are in distress (e.g., significant trouble breathing, chest pain, fainting, or have a significant worsening of any chronic disease symptoms), do not go to the Assessment Centre or a COVID-19 Care Clinic. Go to the nearest Emergency Department or call 9-1-1.

Resources

Frequently asked questions about the assessment centre

Where is the COVID-19 Assessment Centre? 

The COVID-19 Assessment Centre is located at the Brewer Park Arena at 151 Brewer Way, accessed from Bronson Avenue opposite Carleton University. Follow signage for parking.
When should I go to the COVID-19 Assessment Centre?

If you are in distress (e.g., significant trouble breathing, chest pain, fainting, or have a significant worsening of any chronic disease symptoms), do not go to the Assessment Centre or a COVID-19 Care Clinic. Go to the nearest Emergency Department or call 9-1-1.

For more information, visit our COVID-19 testing criteria page.
When is the COVID-19 Assessment Centre open?
  • The COVID-19 Assessment Centre is open 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., 7 days a week. If you are symptomatic after the Centre is closed and you do not need emergency care, please continue to self-isolate and wait to go to the Centre the next morning.
  • If you need emergency care at any time, please go to your nearest emergency department or call 9-1-1. 

I have questions regarding testing in Ottawa, who should I contact?

In Ottawa, the Champlain COVID-19 Response Committee (CCRC), under the direction of Ontario Health, is responsible for developing and implementing a regional testing strategy. The CCRC staffs, operates and manages the Assessment Centre and the two (2) COVID Care Clinics with local hospitals. CCRC is also responsible for organizing and administering testing priorities for the region.   Should you have questions or comments regarding testing, please contact testinginquiries@toh.ca.

What role does OPH play in testing?

The Champlain Health Regional Incident Command (CHRIC) and Ottawa Public Health (OPH) are working collaboratively to implement the Ontario Ministry of Health’s policies on testing priorities across Ottawa. OPH investigates confirmed COVID-19 cases and ensures that those who need testing are able to access it through healthcare partners. 
Can a health care worker who had tested positive for COVID-19 go to the COVID-19 Assessment Centre to get the required testing to return to work?

Yes, a healthcare worker can go to the Assessment Centre to get their required two negative swabs to get clearance prior to returning to work.

For more information:  http://www.health.gov.on.ca/en/pro/programs/publichealth/coronavirus/docs/2019_testing_clearing_cases_guidance.pdf
If my symptoms are serious, should I still go to the COVID-19 Assessment Centre?

No. If you are in distress (e.g. significant trouble breathing, chest pain, fainting, or have a significant worsening of any chronic disease symptoms), do not go to the Assessment Centre. Go to the nearest Emergency Department or call 9-1-1.

  • If you have escalating symptoms of respiratory illness, including a fever or worsening cough and flu-like symptoms, and are in need of medical attention, you should go to the COVID-19 Care Clinics.
Do I need to call Ottawa Public Health or call the COVID-19 Assessment Centre before coming in?
 No, you do not need to call ahead.
Can I come to the COVID-19 Assessment Centre if I am not a resident of Ontario?

Yes, the Assessment Centre is accepting out-of-province residents.
How should I travel to the Assessment Centre?

Individuals should be taking their own personal vehicles to the assessment centre with no unnecessary passengers. If this is not possible, they should be taking a method of transport that minimizes their exposure to other people such as a taxi or rideshare. They should be sitting in the rear seat passenger side, wear a mask, ensure the window is down and take note of the transportation information (e.g.: taxi number, date & time). 
What do I need to bring with me if I go to the COVID-19 Assessment Centre ?

Please bring your Ontario health card, a list of your current medications, and anything else that you might need while you wait to be assessed. Wait times will depend patient volume but may be several hours.
Can my child be assessed at the COVID-19 Assessment Centre ?

Yes. The COVID-19 Assessment Centre will have pediatric health-care providers from CHEO who can assess and test both children older than six months and adults. Do not bring your child if they are well and do not need to be screened.

  • Important: Children under six months should go to the Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario.
Should I come to the COVID-19 Assessment Centre if I am an older adult or if I have a suppressed immune system?

Yes. Everyone will sanitize their hands and put on a mask immediately on arriving at the Centre.
What is the COVID-19 Assessment Centre process?
  • When you arrive at the Assessment Centre, you will be screened for travel and contact history and symptoms upon arrival.
  • You will be assessed by a health care provider and tested for COVID-19 if required.
  • The test involves taking a sample from the back of the nasal cavity with a swab.
  • Your health-care provider and Ottawa Public Health will follow up with those who test positive with results and further instruction will be provided.
How will the COVID-19 Assessment Centre keep patients safe?
  • Areas for screening and assessment will be kept separate to reduce the risk of spreading infection.
  • Everyone will be asked to sanitize their hands and put on a mask at the Centre entrance.
  • Please also be mindful to avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth unless you have just cleaned your hands.
If I was tested, how long does it take to get results?

It usually takes approximately 24 hours to a few days to receive test results for COVID-19. Please continue to self-isolate while awaiting test results.

On April 3, 2020, the Ontario Government launched a new online portal to access COVID-19 test results. This portal will offer fast and secure access to test results on your computer and mobile device. You can find the tool by visiting Government of Ontario’s new user-friendly online portal.

Please continue to self-isolate while awaiting test results. 
Will my results be confidential?

Yes. Your personal health information is protected under Ontario’s Personal Health Information Protection Act (PHIPA).
I am a primary care physician, should I direct patients to the COVID-19 Assessment Centre ?

Yes. If you have a patient who meets the criteria for attending the COVID-19 Assessment Centre (new or worsening cough and/or fever, recent travel history, contact with someone diagnosed with COVID-19), and you are unable to assess or test them in your clinic, please direct that patient to the Assessment Centre.

Contact Us