(File photo/CKOM)

By CKOM

new directive

Sask. doctors not fully vaccinated must tell patients: College of Physicians and Surgeons

Nov 25, 2021 | 9:32 AM

If you’re going to see a doctor outside of a hospital who isn’t fully vaccinated against COVID-19, they now have to tell you that.

The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Saskatchewan is out with a new directive for settings outside of hospitals. It’s expected to remain in place for the duration of the pandemic.

Bryan Salte, the college’s registrar and legal counsel, says patients have a right to know their doctor’s vaccination status. The evidence shows those who are unvaccinated have a greater chance of transmitting the virus than those who are fully vaccinated.

“If there is a risk to patients, then patients should be advised before they actually come to see the doctor so they can make an informed decision about whether they will continue to receive treatment, whether they will receive treatment virtually, (or) whether they’ll seek treatment from somebody else,” he said.

The letter also encourages doctors to provide their patients with information on the steps they’re taking to prevent COVID transmission, including using full personal protective equipment and getting tested regularly.

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The directive applies to settings outside of the realm of the Saskatchewan Health Authority, where proof of vaccination or negative test requirements have already been implemented.

“This applies to any other situation in which a physician will be providing in-person care. Usually that would be in the context of their clinics, but of course any physician who provides a home visit or something similar would also be practising outside of hospital and it would apply there as well,” explained Salte.

In a walk-in clinic where patients don’t need an appointment beforehand, the patient must be informed by office staff if the doctor they’re going to see isn’t fully vaccinated. In that case, the patient can request another doctor, unless it’s an emergency.

The decision was made at a CPSS council meeting Nov. 19 and 20. A letter dated Tuesday has been sent to all doctors and has been posted on the college’s website.

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