TORONTO, MARCH 17, 2020 – The Ontario Medical Association (OMA) strongly supports the government’s actions to increase social distancing with the closure of bars and restaurants as well as making additional funds available for screening, protective equipment, and assessment centres.
“We are pleased that the government has allocated $50 million for personal protective equipment. In order to keep everyone safe, we must ensure that frontline health care workers stay well”, said Dr. Sohail Gandhi, OMA President. “Unfortunately, health care workers often bear the brunt when there is an outbreak such as this one.”
The OMA continues to work closely with the Ministry of Health to ensure that we can get adequate supplies of personal protective equipment for doctors and other frontline health care workers.
We are also supportive of the funding for additional doctors, nurses, personal support workers, additional capacity in hospitals, additional testing and assessment centres.
We know that social distancing and good handwashing hygiene are the most important things that we can do to flatten the curve and slow the spread of COVID-19. The mandatory closure of bars, restaurants and other non-essential public places is a challenging but necessary step in keeping people safe.
“We would encourage people to also consider their mental health at this difficult time. It’s important to note that social distancing does not mean social isolation” said Dr. Sohail Gandhi, OMA President. “We must stay in touch with each other - family, friends and colleagues. Reach out and call, or email, or skype – technology provides many options to keep in touch.”
About the OMA
The Ontario Medical Association represents Ontario’s 43,000 plus physicians, medical students and retired physicians, advocating for and supporting doctors while strengthening the leadership role of doctors in caring for patients. Our vision is to be the trusted voice in transforming Ontario’s health-care system.
For more information, please contact:
OMA Media Relations at media@oma.org