COVID-19 Information

In the summer of 2020, the College of Audiologists and Speech-Language Pathologists of Ontario (CASLPO), based on guidelines from the Ontario Ministry of Health (MOH), confirmed that in-person Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (SLP) services could resume, with certain guidelines in place. Based on these guidelines, the protocol outlined below has been established in order to ensure the safety of all involved, in the event of in-person appointments.

​

Per CASLPO's guidelines, we continue to offer virtual appointments whenever possible, or as preferred by clients. It is important to note that nearly all SLP services offered in-person can also be completed virtually. Virtual care may include a combination of online teletherapy platforms, telephone, recorded video, email, etc. As such, virtual care remains the recommended course of action for clients who are able to participate in and benefit from this style of intervention. In-person services may be considered for clients who are unable to access or participate in virtual services, or in cases where the nature of intervention provided is not suited to virtual services. 

​

Protocols for In-Home Appointments During COVID-19

​

You will be required to complete a Pre-Appointment COVID-19 Screening Questionnaire prior to each in-person visit. This questionnaire will be sent to you prior to initiating in-person services. When possible, this questionnaire will be completed verbally with the SLP over the telephone prior to each individual visit. The questionnaire may also be completed and returned via email prior to each visit. A negative screening is required in order to proceed with an in-person visit. Please note that if the SLP is unable to complete the screening verbally and/or the questionnaire is not returned (completed) prior to the visit and/or you are unable to pass the screening on arrival, a cancelation fee of $60 may apply.​

​In order to reduce the risk of transmission of COVID-19 as much as possible, the following precautions have been put in place:

​

1. In order to facilitate physical distancing, all family members not participating in a session are asked to remain in an area separate from the therapy space as much as possible;

2. All adults participating in a session are asked to wear a face mask, in accordance with MOH recommendations for appropriate face coverings*;

3. School-aged children are asked to wear a mask, as tolerated. Infants, toddlers, and pre-school children are not expected to wear masks when receiving SLP services, although they may do so, as tolerated. Note that masks may be removed as required, depending on the nature of services being provided; 

4. The SLP will wear a mask and eye protection (goggles or a face shield). Note that masks may be removed as required, depending on the nature of services being provided;

5. All clients/participating family members are asked to complete hand hygiene (washing or sanitizing hands) in accordance with recommended hand hygiene procedures** at the beginning and end of appointments, and as requested by the SLP. The SLP will have hand sanitizer available if required; and

6. All therapy materials will be thoroughly sanitized with an approved cleaning product before and after each session. 

​

*More information on masks and how to wear them may be found here: https://www.ottawapublichealth.ca/en/public-health-topics/masks.aspx

**More information on washing hands with soap and water or hand sanitizer may be found here: https://www.ottawapublichealth.ca/en/shared-content/hand-hygiene-resources.aspx

​

Thank you for your understanding in implementing these precautions, as this helps to ensure the safety of our community!