Dr. Sewell: COVID-19

As of January 1, 2022 everyone entering the building must wear either a three layer surgical or KF94/N95/KN95 mask. That mask must NOT include a valve.

COVID-19

Unfortunately, blindness and serious health issues don't stop just because there's a pandemic. As physicians/medical eye doctors we remain committed to providing care.

It goes without saying that the situation is constantly changing. As of January our approach is as follows:

Appointments

All scheduled appointments are taking place.
Due to staff challenges during the pandemic, we will not be calling to confirm/remind you of any appointment.
Before attending your appointment please use the self-screening tool. If it suggests you are at risk of having Covid-19 please call the office to make alternative arrangements.
In order to adhere to the public health order requirements, time within the examining rooms must be kept to a minimum. As a result we CANNOT combine appointments for both health issues and refractions (testing for glasses) at the same visit- sorry, must be one or the other.
Many high risk people will be in the clinic. Please wear a mask to your appointment.
Please come alone to your appointment. If you require a driver they will need to remain outside the building. See What steps is the clinic taking... below for some exceptions.

What if there's another wave/lockdown?

At some point there will be another wave with a renewed tightening of public health orders. We will continue to provide care throughout. In the event of another lockdown,

Dr. Sewell will attempt to call every patient in the week prior to their appointment to help them decide what would be the most prudent course in their particular situation.

Don't have an appointment and don't know if you should make one?

For non-urgent inquiries only, you may email your name and contact number to drgarysewell@gmail.com and Dr. Sewell will get back to you by phone. Depending on backlog a return message may take a few to several days. Note that this email will not be constantly monitored and is NOT for emergencies. As email is not secure there will be limited responses by email. For the same reason, do not include any information that you would be uncomfortable with other people knowing. Sorry we can only offer this for existing patients.

What steps is the clinic taking to minimize risk?

To minimize risk to both you and to us it is critical that we limit exposure both in terms of numbers and time of potential exposure.

If you have an appointment and have flu-like symptoms please call ahead so we can make appropriate arrangements for the safety of you and others.
Please come alone to your appointment. If you require a driver we ask that the driver remain outside. If you are a parent with minors we understand.
Only the patient will be allowed in exam rooms. Exceptions will be made in the case of minors, dementia and those requiring interpreters.
For the time being visits will be kept strictly to just the necessities needed to ensure good ocular health. So, for example, if your appointment is for a glaucoma follow-up we will not be checking for a glasses prescription at this time.
Hand sanitizing stations are available throughout the clinic. Feel free to use them.

Will I be able to practice physical distancing in the waiting room?

The majority of patients seen in the clinic are usually pre or postoperative. With the cancellation of elective surgeries and the request for patients to enter the clinic by themselves there is plenty of room for physical distancing.

What if I have an eye emergency and you are closed?

You should always contact our office first. The Misericordia Urgent Eye Care Centre will continue to function. In the event that we have to close at some point and are unable to see you then you should seek help there.