Bay College Medical and Lockwood Diagnostics, Author at Bay College Lockwood Clinic

How to Find a Family Doctor in Toronto

December 14, 2021December 2, 2021 by Bay College Medical and Lockwood Diagnostics

When you’re sick, who do you call? If you do not yet have a personal doctor, this can sometimes be a tough question to answer. A family doctor, also known as a “general practitioner (GP),” is a doctor who can treat and diagnose a wide range of common illnesses, injuries, and chronic conditions for people of all ages. Whenever you have a health concern that is not immediately life threatening, a family doctor can help.

So, how do you find a family doctor? There are a few ways to go about finding a family doctor in Toronto. In this article, we will look at how to find a doctor, what a family doctor can provide, and what to look for when finding the right doctor for you.

Ways to Find a Family Doctor in Toronto

Start with a simple online search for a family doctor in your area. Call individual offices to see if they are accepting new patients.
Ask friends and family if they have a doctor they are happy with.
Check online reviews for doctors in your area.
Contact local universities with medical programs. In these programs, doctors are completing their residency, a supervised training period where doctors continue their education. Residents are family doctors and fully capable of providing quality care, treatment, and diagnoses.
In Ontario, there is also Health Care Connect. With this service, you will be put on a waitlist to find an available doctor in your area. While this can be useful, certain areas may not have as many openings for new patients. Due to this, it is beneficial to try other methods while you wait to hear from the service.

Things to Consider When Choosing a Doctor

Online Reputation: Online reviews are a good starting point to see if a doctor is the right fit for you. However, it is important that you read individual reviews instead of simply looking at a number rating. This is because a patient may provide a negative rating for reasons that may not be relevant for you. For example, a patient may give negative reviews because the doctor does not have extended hours. If extended hours are not an issue for you, this is not a relevant review.

Location: While broadening your search to include surrounding cities may help you find a family doctor who is accepting new patients faster, it can set you up for failure in the long run. If your doctor is not close enough to be convenient, this can make it difficult to stay on top of appointments. This is especially true if you have any conditions that would require you to make appointments more frequently.

Consider the Facility: When choosing a doctor, look to see what other services their clinic offers. For example, if you know that you may need physical therapy,it could make sense to choose a doctor that works from a clinic that also offers PT. Medical facilities with other specialists and diagnostic capabilities can also be extremely convenient and worth considering. Also, look for reviews of the clinic itself, not just the individual doctor. This can give you insight into the clinic’s overall reputation, how up to date their technology is, etc.

What Services Can a Family Doctor Provide?

Unless your illness or injury is immediately life-threatening, a family doctor will likely be able to help. There are exceptions to this covered in the next section. Here is what a family doctor can do:

Routine check-ups and physicals
Regular health screenings
Treatment and diagnosis of common illnesses and injuries (I.E. viruses, flu, minor sprains etc.)
Help with ongoing management of chronic conditions
Prescriptions
Referrals to specialists

What Can a Family Doctor NOT Do?

There are two main things a family doctor cannot typically help with: 1) severe and life-threatening injuries and illness, 2) diagnosis of certain complex conditions. However, they can still help with ongoing care after these events and diagnoses.

For example, a family doctor may not be able to diagnose multiple sclerosis without sending you to a specialist first, but they will be able to help you with ongoing check ups and treatment after. Similarly, you would not go to a family doctor when you have just broken your leg, but you would likely see them for follow-up visits to check on healing progress.

Additionally, since a family doctor is typically only open during regular business hours, you may need to opt for an emergency room or urgent care for sudden pain or symptoms that occur at night or on a weekend. For example, a child running an extremely high fever on a sunday should not wait until the family doctor’s office opens on monday.

Why Should You Have a Family Doctor?

When you have an illness or injury that is not life-threatening, having a family doctor whom you have an established relationship with makes the process much easier. Here are some key reasons why you should have a family doctor in Toronto.

Publicly Funded: In Toronto, a visit to a family doctor is free. This may not always be the case if you go to a specialist, urgent care, or alternative medical provider.

Referrals: Though your family doctor may not be able to treat and diagnose all conditions they can refer you to a specialist who can help. In many cases, you may need a referral from a primary health care provider before you can even see a specialist. Seeing a specialist who your family doctor recommends, can give you peace of mind.

Peace of Mind: Knowing who to call when you’re sick, saves you the difficulty of trying to find a doctor when you are already feeling poorly.

Established Relationship: Building a relationship with your doctor serves several purposes. 1) as your doctor gets to know you, he or she will be better able to recommend treatments and solutions based on your preferences. 2) Similarly, a doctor you see regularly will have your information on file including which prescriptions you may already be taking and which have worked for you and which haven’t. This can reduce the chances of missing this information with a new doctor. 3) Having a familiar face to talk to when you are sick can be significantly more comforting than seeing a new doctor.

Keep Your Doctor for Life: Since family doctors can see patients of all ages, you can continue to see your doctor as long as they are in practice. A family doctor can even help during pregnancy/prenatal care though you may still need to see an OB/GYN if you have certain complications during the pregnancy.

Find a Family Doctor in Toronto

Having a trusted family doctor can make a major difference in your health and treatment. Establishing an ongoing relationship helps to ensure continuity in the care you receive and can make it easier to stay on top of regular checkups and screenings.

At BCML, we understand how important it is to establish this connection. Our state of the art facilities provide diagnostic capabilities, cardiac health services, health screenings, family doctors, and more for your health and convenience. Get connected with our caring team today, by calling 416-847-1100.

How to Find A Physiotherapist In Toronto

December 8, 2021November 25, 2021 by Bay College Medical and Lockwood Diagnostics

Physiotherapy can help you regain strength, improve flexibility, and add to your overall well-being. While taking the step to start physiotherapy is a positive one, certain factors can make your therapy more successful. Your choice of therapist, specialty, and their location are some of the biggest factors to consider.

Before deciding on a physiotherapist, consider their specialties, experience, clinic location, and reviews from past patients. Here, we’ll explore these factors and how you can use them to find the best physiotherapist.

Get Familiar with Physiotherapy Terminology

Nobody expects you to know everything there is to know about physiotherapy or any other medical service. However, knowledge of certain terms can help you make informed decisions.

First, be aware there are four main branches of physiotherapy: geriatric, pediatric, sports, and orthopedic. Within these broad categories, you’ll also find cardio-respiratory, women’s health, pelvic floor, neuro, hand therapy, and several others corresponding with different body parts and conditions. Once you know the type of specialist you need, you can easily narrow down your search.

Know What Certifications Mean

In the search for now to find a physiotherapist, you’ll come across doctors with a variety of acronyms attached to their names. These acronyms indicate certain certifications. While multiple certifications may seem more impressive, some hold more weight than others.

Similarly, some certifications may not be necessary for the type of treatment you require. Here are some certifications to know and their importance:

CCS (Cardiovascular & Pulmonary Certified Specialist)

As the name implies, this certification means your therapist has completed coursework and training to specialize in helping patients recover from respiratory and cardiac conditions.

GCS (Geriatric Certified Specialist)

As we age, certain diseases and conditions become more prevalent. A therapist with GCS certification specializes in these conditions and has specific knowledge for working with older adults.

OCS (Orthopedic Certified Specialist)

Conditions and injuries affecting the musculoskeletal system are among the most common issues patients will need physiotherapy for. These issues can include bone fractures, sprains, and repetitive strain injuries. An OCS therapist has completed additional work to ensure they have in-depth knowledge of these types of injuries.

WCS (Women’s Health Certified Specialist)

A physiotherapist with a WCS certification has special knowledge of how to treat women and women-specific conditions. This knowledge covers treating women during or after pregnancy along with female athletes and women at all stages of life.

SCS (Sports Certified Specialist)

Physical therapists specializing in sports-related injuries often work with athletes to recover from injuries and prevent them. Their work can include a variety of stretches, massage, and other therapies that help to keep muscles and joints flexible.

FCAMPT (Fellows of the Canadian Academy of Manipulative Physiotherapy)

FCAMPT certified therapists are specialists who have gone beyond graduate studies to gain advanced clinical reasoning skills. Their abilities are best suited to complex orthopedic conditions and injuries. While any patient would benefit from these extensive skills, most people don’t need their highly specialized knowledge to achieve physiotherapy benefits.

Consider Online Reviews and Referrals

While online reviews are not a guaranteed indicator of a therapist’s quality, they can be a good starting point. When considering reviews, make sure to read the actual reviews versus just looking at the scores.

Part of how to find a physiotherapist in Toronto is understanding which reviews should influence your decision. Some patients may rate a therapist very well or poorly based on factors that are not important to you. For example, someone may give a low score simply because a clinic is not open at hours that are convenient for them or they do not specialize in the type of therapy they require.

If possible, ask people you know for referrals. Often, a personalized recommendation from a trusted friend who understands your needs can be more valuable than online reviews and comments.

Consider the Clinic Itself

Often, patients will put their focus on finding an individual therapist with good reviews without considering the clinic. While an inadequate therapist in a state-of-the-art clinic is hardly ideal, neither is a great therapist in a clinic without the equipment you need.

An important part of how to find a physiotherapist is ensuring the clinic is in the best possible condition. Look at the clinic’s website to get an idea of how the physical space looks. Do they have a gym? Are they investing in new equipment? Do they offer massages and water therapy? While you may not need these items or services, it can help you make a decision if a clinic specifically does not have what you need.

Another factor to consider is whether or not the clinic will bill your insurance directly or you’ll have to struggle with the paperwork. While it is far from uncommon for a clinic to not do direct billing, when they do, it is one less thing you must worry about. It’s a small but significant detail that should inform your choice of physiotherapist in Toronto.

Consider Location

Is the therapist or clinic you’re considering conveniently located? While some patients may have different ideas of what is a reasonable commute to a therapy appointment, people are generally more likely to stick with therapy when it’s convenient. This often means narrowing your search to within a certain radius from your home or work

For other patients, it may mean seeking in-home physiotherapy. At-home service is more convenient, however, but is likely to be significantly more expensive. Plus, your options may be more limited as there are more therapists available who work at clinics vs. making house calls.

When considering location, ask yourself what distance you’re realistically willing to travel. This is especially important during a Toronto winter when there are likely to be days that are too snowy or cold to be comfortable for a long commute.

Related Article: Choosing A Family Doctor In Toronto

Find a Physiotherapist in Toronto Today

When you’43 in need of physical therapy or any kind of medical attention, it can be difficult to focus on finding the perfect doctor for your needs. At BCML, we understand that when you are in pain you want to start treatment to feel better as soon as possible.

This is why we aim to provide not only physiotherapy but also x-ray, ultrasound, and pharmacy services at one convenient location. Call 416-847-1100 today to schedule an appointment.

What is the Cost of Physiotherapy in Toronto?

December 8, 2021November 18, 2021 by Bay College Medical and Lockwood Diagnostics

Physiotherapy can help you maintain and regain flexibility, reduce pain, and improve your overall health. Costs for this service can be significant, however; there are ways to reduce what you pay out of pocket. Additionally, for many patients, they may be able to return to work and improve their quality of life, making the cost an investment with great returns.

Generally, you can expect to pay around $75 to $100 for an initial consultation and then varying rates for each additional session after this. Here we will look at some of the factors that can affect your total cost, some ways to reduce your costs, and if physiotherapy is worth it for you.

Initial Costs of Physiotherapy

Your physiotherapy treatment will begin with a consultation where your therapist will assess your injury or condition and begin devising a personalized plan for your treatment. As mentioned above, you can expect this to cost between $75 and $100. The session should last around an hour and at the end of it, you will have a better understanding of what your course of treatment will be.

Factors that Will Affect the Cost of Physiotherapy in Toronto

Length of Initial Examination: Most initial exams will take an hour, however; if you have extensive injuries or multiple conditions, you may require a more in depth exam. This may also require x rays and other tests prior to beginning physiotherapy. Some of these other tests and pre-exam needs may be covered by your health plan or insurer.

How Many Sessions You Require: Typically, physiotherapy treatment consists of an initial consultation followed by a set number of sessions. Throughout the sessions, your progress is analyzed. If you have reached your goals, your doctor may only prescribe infrequent followup sessions such as monthly massage therapy and/or prescribe you at-home exercises to do. However, you may require additional time with the therapists if your pain, injuries, or flexibility have not improved sufficiently.

Type of Physical Therapy: There are several main types of physical therapy including sports therapy, orthopedic, and therapy specifically for older adults and children. Generally, sports therapy and geriatric physiotherapy are the most costly while pediatric tends to be less and orthopedic falls in the middle.

Here are some general guidelines for cost:

Sports Therapy: With sports therapy, there is an emphasis on regaining strength after an injury, and/or improving health to help prevent injuries. Typically, sports therapy for a specific injury will cost around $800. This will include an initial consultation and several follow up sessions and possibly massage therapy.
Orthopedic: Orthopedic therapy is among the most likely and common for adults. This branch of physiotherapy deals with strains and pains associated with poor posture, back and neck injuries, post-surgery recovery and a variety of other common conditions and injuries.
Geriatric and Pediatric: These two types of therapy focus on injuries that are common in the elderly or in children. Costs will vary widely depending on exactly what is needed. Geriatric tends to be the most expensive because elderly people often need in-home treatment which is more costly:
Other Costs Guidelines: For individual therapy sessions which will help you improve mobility, you will pay per session somewhere in the range of $200 to $500. Massage therapy may also be needed but is considerably less expensive, typically ranging from $30 to $60 depending on the length of the session.

Your Available Insurance and Tax Status: Certain deductions can be taken to reduce the costs of your physical therapy and some insurers may partially cover costs as well. We will cover this in more detail in the next section.

Where You Receive Therapy: Depending on specialty and location, therapists may charge higher or lower rates. While it may be tempting to search out the lowest cost per session provider, this may not always result in savings. A therapist who does not specialize in your type of injury or has less experience may charge less per session but you may need more sessions to achieve the same results as you would with less from a more qualified therapist.

Help with Paying for Physiotherapy

While physiotherapy is an important part of regaining and maintaining your health, it can get expensive. Fortunately, there are a few ways to save on the cost of physiotherapy.

Health Savings Account: If you own an incorporated business, you can count your therapy as a pre-tax expense meaning you will not be charged taxes on the money that is put towards therapy. Do this by using your Health Spending Account (HSA). This can also save you money on a variety of other services that are typically out of pocket costs. For example, dentistry, massage therapy, and eyecare.

Medical Expense Tax Credit (METC): For those who are unable to use an HSA, you can still benefit from the METC. This tax credit will be applied to any taxes that you owe. However, note that this tax credit cannot be refunded, meaning if you do not owe taxes, you will not receive additional money from the METC.

Insurance: In some cases, your physiotherapy may be covered by your insurance. This is not always the case and you should discuss this with your insurance provider prior to your first appointment.

Is Physiotherapy Worth it?

For many patients, physiotherapy is more than worth the cost since it can often improve your quality of life and possibly help you avoid more invasive measures. With the personalized stretching, massage, and exercises of physiotherapy, you may be able to regain flexibility and reduce pain without needing surgery.

Additionally, those who can regain function in a knee, shoulder, neck or other body part will often not only improve their quality of life, they may be able to return to work and/or save money on items like mobility aids. Overall, physiotherapy is a good choice compared to the alternative of not getting help.

Getting Started with Physiotherapy

Many therapists will work with you to develop a payment plan, discounted rate, or help you find ways to make the therapy more affordable. At BCML, our team of therapists is here to help you get the therapy you need at the best price possible. Contact us today at 416-929-1900 to schedule a consultation.

10 Reasons You Should Have a Family Doctor

November 16, 2021October 29, 2021 by Bay College Medical and Lockwood Diagnostics

Who would you call if you had a medical concern? While major, life-threatening conditions mean an easy decision to go to the hospital, non-emergency situations can be more difficult when you do not have a regular doctor. Family doctors specializing in family medicine can serve as a primary source of care for each member of your household from children to senior citizens.

Having a family doctor in place ensures you have a reliable physician to call for regular physicals, management of chronic illnesses, minor injuries, fevers, rashes, and all the many medical concerns you and your family may face. While a family doctor may not be able to treat emergency medical situations, they can often help you avoid the factors that can lead to emergency issues. This is just one of the many reasons you should have a family doctor. Let’s look at what a family doctor does and why it is so important to form a relationship with one for your family.

What is a Family Doctor?

A family doctor is a doctor who has training in family medicine which enables them to treat patients of all ages. This differs from an internist who can also provide general care but only for adults.

A family doctor is able to:

Help you manage chronic conditions such as diabetes and heart disease.
Refer you to specialists when needed.
Treat acute conditions such as rashes, infections, minor injuries and much more.
Provide preventative care testing and analysis.
Conduct annual check-ups.
Treat patients of all ages.

10 Reasons You Should Have a Family Doctor

Your Family Doctor Knows Your Whole History: While any doctor can read your chart, your dedicated family doctor will get to know you personally and be better able to provide personalized recommendations. This often makes the process of getting a proper diagnosis and treatment more efficient especially if there may be multiple family members suffering the same illness or condition.
You Always Have Someone to Call: As mentioned above, it can sometimes be difficult to know who to call when you have a non-emergency medical condition. While you may be able to go to a hospital for certain conditions, a family doctor can often provide faster care with less stress.
Helps You Stay on Top of Preventative Care: Though it may be easy to remember to get your eyes checked when your glasses stop performing as well, it can often be much too easy to ignore our body’s need for regular check-ups. A family doctor will help to remind you of necessary testing and let you know which tests are required based on your age and health.
Easy Specialist Referrals: While finding a family doctor who is taking new patients can be difficult, it is often far more difficult to find a specialist. Not only can a family doctor tell you what specialist you may need, they will likely have connections with specialists in the area which can help with getting an appointment.
A Family Doctor Treats Your Whole Family: For those with children in their family, a family doctor is often the ideal choice for primary medical care. This makes ensuring your whole family stays on top of regular visits much more convenient.
They Know What Treatments are Best for You: Do you like alternative treatments such as yoga or meditation before considering drugs? Do you struggle with taking your medication on time? A family doctor you have formed a relationship with over many years will often know the answer to these questions and can recommend treatment that will fit your lifestyle.
Better for the Community: While there are numerous benefits to you as an individual for having a family doctor, you will also be contributing to a healthier system for all. Studies have shown that the preventative care a family doctor provides helps to reduce emergency room visits. Not only is it good for you to avoid a trip to the emergency room, it leaves more resources for others with other emergency conditions.
Help You Manage Chronic Conditions: Regular check-ups are important for everyone but are especially critical for those with chronic conditions. Your family doctor can help you stay on track by adjusting your medications, testing, and treatment as needed.
Family Doctors Treat the Whole Person: While specialists are an important part of the medical care system, a general practitioner like a family doctor is able to help with the diagnosis and treatment of a wide range of conditions and illnesses. Unlike specialists whose experience is focused on a particular part of the body or certain conditions, a family doctor is better able to take your whole medical history into consideration before prescribing treatment.
Offers Treatment Flexibility: Due to a family doctor’s extensive training in a wide range of areas, they are often able to provide or recommend a variety of treatment options. Their own knowledge base plus their connections within the medical community give them the resources needed to present you with multiple treatment options when possible. For example, while a surgeon is best equipped to recommend surgical options, a family doctor may be better able to recommend nonsurgical options as well.
BONUS Reason: Family Doctors are Free: If you are a member of OHIP, your family doctor visits are completely covered. Even more importantly, building a relationship with your family doctor can help you avoid physical, emotional, and financial costs in the long run as you work together to improve your health.

Find Your Family Doctor Today

Choosing a family doctor may seem like a daunting task or it may even seem unnecessary if you do not have chronic conditions. However, having a family doctor in place will give you and your family the peace of mind you deserve when illness or injury strike.

At BCML, we are here to help you manage your total health and find the care providers that are right for you. To connect with our primary care physicians and our team of medical care professionals, call (416) 929-1900.

Choosing a Family Doctor in Toronto

November 16, 2021October 24, 2021 by Bay College Medical and Lockwood Diagnostics

Family doctors are practitioners with a well-rounded knowledge of a wide range of common illnesses, conditions, and injuries. This training allows them to provide care and diagnosis for your whole family including children and senior citizens. Due to this, a family doctor will be your primary contact for all non-emergency health concerns which is both convenient and can better help you manage illness that may be affecting a whole household or family.

Choosing a family doctor in Toronto is an important part of keeping your whole family safe and healthy. Here we will look at ways to choose a family doctor including services that can help match you with a doctor. You can also contact Bay College Medical & Lockwood Diagnostic (BCML) directly to be connected to family doctors in the greater Toronto area by calling (416) 929-1900.

Ways to Find a Family Doctor

Finding a family doctor, also referred to as a general practitioner (GP), can sometimes take a bit of work. In certain areas and at certain times many doctors may not have openings for new patients. Here are some ways to go about finding a quality GP in your area.

Ask for Recommendations: family and friends are often the best source for finding a doctor that will be right for you. Ask about their experience with their doctor and if their doctor is accepting new patients.

Contact a Local Hospital: Your local hospital may have a family practice unit with general practitioners. Finding a GP in a hospital offers the extra advantage of having many other services available all in one space.

Health Care Connect: OHIP members can register with Health Care Connect to be matched with local physicians who are accepting new patients. This service is not guaranteed to find you a doctor as there may be limited availability of practitioners and those with the most urgent needs may be placed first. However, for those without a current doctor, this can be a useful service.

Contact Doctor Offices and Clinics Directly: This option may require a bit more calling around until you get a match but you can start by simply checking what doctors are in your area. Start by asking if they are accepting new patients. With a clinic like BCML you will not only find general practitioners but may also find help for more urgent health concerns, preventative testing, and other care options.

How Do I Choose a Family Doctor?

For Adults: While general practitioners may have certain areas of greater experience or expertise, any doctor considered a general practitioner will be able to treat and diagnose a wide range of health concerns for adults. For conditions they can not personally treat, they will be able to refer you to a specialist. Due to this, it is more important to be matched with any doctor versus seeking out one particular type of doctor.

Note that a general practitioner for adults is also called an “internist.” Their experience and training give them deeper insight into the internal workings of the adult body and preventative care needs. If your family does not include children, an internist is likely to be a better option than a family doctor.

For Adults and Children: However, this changes if you need medical care for children as well as adults. In this case, you will want to seek out a physician who specifically practices in “family medicine,” which is a medical specialty. They will have knowledge of medical concerns for both children and adults. A family medicine doctor will be able to provide regular check-ups and other essential services for family members of all ages.

Your child may also benefit from the care of a pediatrician, which is a primary care physician who specializes in the treatment of children. Though a family doctor is fully capable of treating and diagnosing a wide range of children’s health concerns, a pediatrician is likely to have more in-depth and up to date knowledge on less common conditions. This can make a pediatrician a better choice for children with specific health concerns. In particular, a pediatrician may be better equipped to address certain behavioral or emotional issues.

What if I Want to Switch My Family Doctor?

Switching doctors may be on your to-do list for a variety of reasons. You or your doctor may have changed locations, no longer making a visit as convenient or, perhaps, the doctor is just not a fit for you or your family.

While you should always seek out the medical care that is best for you, it is important to note that there is a shortage of general practitioners in certain parts of Ontario. However, if you know you absolutely cannot continue with your current practitioner, you must first take your name off their patient list. You can do this by contacting your doctor’s office directly and letting them know you will need to switch.

This is an important first step because it will allow your doctor to open a spot for new patients. Also, services like Health Care Connect can help you find a new doctor but will only work with you if you do not currently have a doctor.

Find Your New Family Doctor in Toronto Today

Having a dedicated general practitioner can help you make good decisions about your health. This gives you a primary point of contact for all of your non-emergency health concerns from viral infections to vaccination shots and minor injuries. Most importantly, a general practitioner can help you keep on top of preventative care and refer you to specialists as needed.

At BCML, we are here to help you manage your total health including connecting you with caring physicians. At our state of the art facility you will find general practitioners, specialists, and other medical services for your entire family. We are conveniently located to serve the Greater Toronto Area. Call (416) 929-1900 to schedule your appointment.

Should I See An Ophthalmologist Or Optometrist?

September 30, 2021September 27, 2021 by Bay College Medical and Lockwood Diagnostics

Both ophthalmologists and optometrists are trained medical professionals who are an important part of your eyecare health. However, what is the difference between the two and when should you see an ophthalmologist vs an optometrist? In short, an optometrist can provide many of the same services and diagnostic capabilities as an ophthalmologist with the notable exception of surgical solutions.

Here we will look at the differences between an ophthalmologist and optometrist and which is best for your eyecare needs.

What is the Difference Between an Ophthalmologist and Optometrist?

While both ophthalmologists and optometrists are doctors, an optometrist is a doctor of optometry and an ophthalmologist is a medical doctor. An ophthalmologist will earn their surgical experience through four years of medical school followed by four years of residency at a medical facility.

An optometrist, instead of attending medical school, will attend optometry school for four years followed by one year of residency. During residency optometrists will participate in extensive clinical training. With this experience, they can treat and diagnose a wide range of eye conditions, prescribe prescription lenses, and give eye exams.

However, they will not be able to perform eye surgery. In some provinces, an optometrist may be restricted from treating certain eye conditions, but they are generally able to diagnose and give you a referral to the correct medical professional even if they cannot provide the treatment itself.

What Can an Optometrist and Opthamologist Do?

Optometrists: Optometrists are often your first line of defense not only for your eye health but your total health. This is because a thorough eye exam can reveal signs of many other medical conditions including diabetes, high blood pressure, and even certain cancers. An optometrist’s exam will frequently reveal signs of these conditions before you start experiencing symptoms, making this exam critical to early detection and successful treatment.

Other optometrist services include:

Assist With Pre and Post Operative Care: While an ophthalmologist will be the one to perform an eye surgery, an optometrist is often a more convenient choice to provide pre and post op care. Optometrists are fully equipped to provide this care and getting an optometrist appointment is typically easier because they will not have days blocked out for surgery.

Write Eyewear Prescriptions: If you are a long time glasses wearer you likely go to an optician to get your glasses fitted. However only an optometrist or ophthalmologist is able to write the initial prescription.

Eye Exam: More than a simple vision test, an exam allows your optometrist to observe the structure of your eye. This will allow them to see any abnormalities or inflammation that could indicate certain conditions.

Treat Eye Trauma: Eye trauma that does not require surgery can be treated by an optometrist. This includes treating scratches and removing foreign objects from the eye.

Provide Proper Referrals: Though an optometrist is able to treat a wide range of conditions, there are certain medical needs they can not see to. For example, your optometrist may suspect you have a tumor and can refer you to an ophthalmologist, oncologist, or another specialist.

Eye Exam: As mentioned above, this exam focuses on the structure of the eye in order to give clues about your total health. Your doctor will visually look at your eyes and also administer tests to identify any issues. This is often a critical first step to diagnosing various conditions and also getting a baseline for your eye health.

Ophthalmologists: Ophthalmologists can perform all of the services and treatments that an optometrist can along with providing surgical solutions. This includes laser eye surgery, a popular option for those who do not want to or cannot wear glasses or contacts.

When to See an Opthamologist vs an Optometrist?

If you are experiencing any kind of vision issues such as blurriness, a “veil” over your vision, loss of peripheral vision or any other sudden changes, it is key to see an eye doctor. In these cases, an optometrist or an ophthalmologist are both good choices and the most important factor is getting an appointment quickly.

In some cases, an emergency room visit may be the best option. Specifically, if you are experiencing a major headache, numbness on one side of the body, difficulty speaking or any other signs of stroke you should get emergency medical attention immediately.

However, if your vision issues are not an emergency, here are some guidelines for how to choose between seeing an ophthalmologist vs an optometrist:

Optometrist: Generally, an optometrist visit is a good starting point for establishing the baseline health of your eyes. If you need a routine eye exam, new glasses prescription, or have been experiencing more mild eye issues such as eye fatigue from looking at a screen too long, an optometrist is typically your best option. Not only is an optometrist well qualified to perform an eye exam, they are often easier to get an appointment with compared to a specialist.

Ophthalmologist: An ophthalmologist is also able to perform eye exams, provide prescriptions, and perform all the services that an optometrist can. If you need a general check up or eye exam, an ophthalmologist is perfectly fine to make an appointment with. However, it is often the case that an ophthalmologist is the next step after visiting an optometrist who will be able to tell you if you need surgery or other advanced treatment that they cannot provide.

Conclusion

Generally, if you need an eye exam or other routine check up, both an ophthalmologist and optometrist can provide this service. Choosing between the two will often come down to who you can get an appointment with most quickly and other convenience factors. However, if you have more advanced eye health concerns and surgical needs, an ophthalmologist will be the right doctor for you.

Need help managing your eye health now? BCML offers fast, convenient, and compassionate care for your total health including eye exams. To find the best eye care options for you, contact us today at (416) 929-1900.

What is the Difference Between an Optometrist, Ophthalmologist, and an Optician?

September 24, 2021September 23, 2021 by Bay College Medical and Lockwood Diagnostics

While most people are familiar with an ophthalmologist being an eye doctor, some may not realize that an optometrist is also a doctor. If you have ever asked “is an optometrist a real doctor?” there is a good chance you may be thinking of an optician, who is also an eye care professional but not a doctor.

So, what is the difference between these three important members of your eye care team? What kind of training does an optometrist have and when should you see an optometrist? We will answer all these questions here.

What is an Optometrist and What Kind of Training Does an Optometrist Have?

An optometrist is an eye care professional who has received extensive schooling and training to earn a doctor of optometry (OD) degree. This training includes a 4-year Bachelor of Science degree, followed by four years of optometry school. They will have also completed clinical training and licensing. In short, yes, this qualifies an optometrist as a doctor. A doctor who, specifically, is trained to specialize in diagnosing and treating a wide range of eye conditions.

However, this is not the same as a medical doctor (MD) who will typically earn a Bachelor degree followed by four years of medical school and an additional three to seven years of residency. An OD should also not be confused by a DO (Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine). A DO also attends medical school like an MD but, instead of focusing on a particular part of the body or condition, a DO takes a whole body approach to treatment.

What Can an Optometrist Treat?

An optometrist can treat and diagnose a wide range of eye health concerns. They can also perform a complete eye exam which can reveal other health concerns such as diabetes, certain cancers, and high blood pressure. Often eye exams performed by an optometrist are critical measures in diagnosing these conditions early on. Various changes in the eyes can indicate the presence of these conditions before any other symptoms make themselves known.

Other services, treatments, and diagnostics that an optometrist provides include:

Eye Exam: an eye exam is more than a vision test which reveals your ability to see. Instead, an exam includes an assessment of your physical eye including the retina, blood vessels, and cornea. This can reveal problems such as cataracts, macular degeneration, and other health problems.
Prescribe Eyewear and Contacts: While an optician can fit you for glasses, an optometrist is needed to prescribe lenses. This includes determining if you need reading glasses, glasses for near or farsightedness or other vision issues.
Treat Mild to Moderate Eye Trauma: This includes removing foreign bodies and treating scratches to the eye. As long as you do not require surgery, an optometrist is often able to treat your eye trauma.
Provide Referrals: While there are many diseases and conditions that an optometrist can treat, you may need another kind of specialist or an ophthalmologist to continue your care. An optometrist can provide referrals to other doctors who can help.
Pre and Post Operative Care: If you require eye surgery from an opthamologist, an optometrist can help with follow-up care. This can often be more convenient as an optometrist can typically provide appointment times more quickly.
Advance Research: Optometrists are often at the forefront of research into optical care. They may work in the area of research and promotion of eye health.

What is the Difference Between an Optometrist, Ophthalmologist, and an Optician?

In short, an ophthalmologist can do everything an optometrist can with the addition of providing surgical eye care solutions. Your optometrist will typically refer you to an ophthalmologist if you need laser vision correction, cataract removal and other surgical procedures.

An optician is an eye care professional who will have completed a certificate program that qualifies them to provide eyeglasses and contact lenses. They are not doctors and cannot write prescriptions for lenses. However, they are the best professionals to help you find the eyewear that is best for you including the styles that will suit your lifestyle and preferences best.

When Should I See an Optometrist?

An optometrist is often the first line of defense in diagnosing and treating eye health concerns. While everyone should strive to get regular eye exams, there are several instances where you should make an appointment immediately.

When You Are Behind in Exams: Typically, those under the age of 40 should be fine with one eye exam every 10 years. Those over 40 should go every two years, while those over 64 should have a yearly eye exam. While once every 10 years may not seem significant, keeping up with this schedule can help to catch various health conditions early on. This includes both eye health issues and other health issues such as diabetes and high blood pressure.

Eye Strain: With our increasing screen time, many of us are also likely to experience increased eye strain. While this can often be resolved by taking regular breaks from the screen, if this does not help or you are experiencing increased headaches, an optometrist visit is advised. A simple eyeglass prescription could alleviate your eye strain symptoms.

Vision Changes: Vision changes can mean many things. While many temporary vision issues are nothing to concern yourself over, some should be taken very seriously. Vision changes that are likely not a concern include occasional floaters, or spots that go away quickly. Temporary blurriness when you first wake up or if you have been staring at a screen too long is also likely not an issue.

However, if you experience double vision, loss of peripheral vision, clusters of spots that do not go away or flashes of light, this is something you should have checked immediately. Double vision can be an indication that you have a detached retina which will require surgery to prevent permanent damage. Other vision loss issues can indicate anything from macular degeneration to stroke or even brain tumors.

Make Your Optometrist Appointment Today

Are you overdue for an eye doctor appointment? If so, you are not alone. Often, those who do not have vision concerns will forgo an appointment for many years. However, regular appointments can help to prevent eye problems from worsening and provide relief if you have eye strain.

At BCML, we provide a full range of vision health diagnostics and treatment. Get started with better eye health today by scheduling an appointment at (416) 929-1900.

When Should You See an Opthamologist?

August 31, 2021August 7, 2021 by Bay College Medical and Lockwood Diagnostics

Have you seen an eye care professional in the last year? Recent data shows that only about half of all Canadians between the ages of 40 and 64 have had their eyes checked professionally in the past year. Regular eye exams can help to find vision concerns before they become major problems and help you get the proper eyewear you need to see your best.

However, unlike an optometrist who provides primary eye care services like a routine exam, an ophthalmologist is trained in advanced eye care and surgical options. Here we will look at when you should see an ophthalmologist and why regular eye care is good for your total health.

Signs that You Should See an Opthamologist

Canadians’ eye care requirements change throughout life. Typically, if you do not have a vision problem, those under the age of 40 should aim for just one exam every 10 years. Those who are 41 to 55 should receive an exam every 5 years. From 56 to 65, once every three is recommended. Finally, those over 65 should get their eyes checked every two years.

These are general guidelines and they may change depending on your doctor’s recommendation. You may need more or less frequent examinations. If you experience any of the following, you should make an ophthalmologist appointment as soon as possible:

Vision Loss: Complete or partial vision loss in one or both eyes is cause for immediate concern and an appointment.
Blurriness, Streaks or Spots: It is not uncommon to experience small black spots or wavy streaks in your vision on occasion and for brief moments. These can occur for several reasons and are rarely a concern unless they do not go away. However, if your vision gets blurry, you have double vision or streaks of light without explanation, this is cause for concern. Be aware of a sudden increase of the presence in any of these elements as they can indicate a detached retina.
Compromised Central or Peripheral Vision: If you notice shadows or a curtain-like effect of darkness over you vision, this can indicate a serious medical concern including issues with your brain
Visible Changes to the Eye: Any kind of discharge, swelling or redness can be problematic as these can indicate an infection.
Sudden Crossed Vision or inability to focus your eyes is another concern that requires immediate medical examination.
Changes in Colour Perception: If the way you see colours suddenly changes, this can indicate important changes in your eye health for example. This can mean a loss of all or most colour perception or possibly an inverse of colours.

When Not to See an Opthamologist

While opthamologists provide the broadest range of services, some situations are best handled by an optometrist or optician. An optometrist will typically be the best choice for a routine eye exam. They will be able to diagnose your condition and provide treatment options with the exception of surgical solutions.

However, if you simply need new glasses, an optician may be best. Opticians are trained to help you find eyewear that is comfortable and suits your taste. Optician offices are also usually combined with a retail area where you can choose your glasses.

Who is at Elevated Risk of Eye Problems?

Age, certain diseases, ethnicity, and other health conditions can all increase your risk of vision concerns. If any of the following apply to you, you may require more frequent exams.

Health Conditions: autoimmune diseases, diabetes, and thyroid disease all increase instances of eye problems.
Genetic Predisposition. Those who have family members with certain eye conditions such as glaucoma may be at an elevated risk as well.
Ethnicity: Those of African and Hispanic dissent experience higher instances of certain eye conditions.
Medications: Some medications may increase your risk of certain eye problems. Whenever starting a new medication, consult with your doctor regarding the risks and what you can do to prevent eye damage.

How Can Eye Exams Help Your Total Health?

Early Disease Detection: Early intervention for eye health concerns can help save your vision and potentially even find other diseases. Your eyes can reveal signs of diseases ranging from diabetes, high cholesterol and high blood pressure to some cancers and even multiple sclerosis. Most of these diseases will require additional testing, but the eyes can often reveal these problems even when you are not experiencing other symptoms.

Preventative Care Guidance: Your ophthalmologist can provide guidance on how to care for your eyes better. Changes in exercise, diet and lifestyle can prevent and slow the effects of certain eye diseases.

Detection of Rare and Immediate Health Risks: While “floaters” and spots in your vision may occur on occasion with little concern, an increase in their number combined with flashes of light and other vision impairment can indicate much more serious problems. Retinal detachment is a common cause of this type of vision change. The separation of the retina from the eye is an emergency situation that requires immediate action to prevent vision loss. Additionally, double vision and certain other vision issues can indicate problems within the brain.

Are Eye Exams Free in Canada?

The Ontario Health Insurance Plan provides a free, yearly eye exam for citizens under 19 and over 65. These routine exams are typically performed by an optometrist. Exams that are deemed medically necessary are covered for citizens of all ages.

These exams are conducted by an ophthalmologist who is trained to treat more serious eye concerns and provide surgical solutions. If you should receive a diagnosis requiring additional medical care, many services are covered by OHIP and may include help with paying for prescription glasses.

Scheduling an Appointment with an Opthamologist

If you are experiencing any of the above vision changes or conditions, a visit to an ophthalmologist can provide answers and peace of mind. While any changes to vision can feel extremely concerning, many issues have simple fixes and ways to prevent further damage.

Are you ready to maintain or improve your vision? BCML is here to help. Our eye care team provides a wide range of services to diagnose and treat both common and advanced eye conditions. To make an appointment, please contact us at (416) 929-1900.

Family Physician’s Guide to Coronavirus (COVID-19)

July 9, 2020July 9, 2020 by Bay College Medical and Lockwood Diagnostics

Although we have seen many communities making great strides in reducing risks and infection rates, Coronavirus continues to play a major role in our everyday lives. As the initial shock of the virus begins to wear off, many of us are looking for ways to further safeguard our health while also understanding more about the illness that has forced us to rethink our healthcare system and the way we work.

Here we will offer a physician’s guide to Coronavirus to give the best and most up to date information about the virus and how it spreads. Though we continue to learn new information about COVID-19, the following is established general information about coronaviruses and the most current information on COVID-19.

Basic Terminology: Is Coronavirus the same as COVID-19?

As we explore the guide to coronavirus, it is important to understand that coronavirus is a catchall term that refers to multiple viruses that have the same “crowned” feature. This group of viruses get their name from the spikes covering the virus cells which resemble a corona, the Latin word for “crown.”

The name of the specific coronavirus that has caused the current pandemic is SARS-CoV-2. Think of it this way, if these viruses were a product, coronaviruses would be “tissues” while SARS-CoV-2 is the brand name Kleenex.

COVID-19 is the actual disease caused by SARS-CoV-2. If we continue with our tissue analogy, COVID-19 would be like the raw, chapped nose and lips you might get from Kleenex when you have to blow your nose too often.

Symptoms of Coronavirus: Asymptomatic Vs. Presymptomatic

Some people who contract SARS-CoV-2 will not show symptoms of the disease but will be able to pass it to others. These people are “asymptomatic” meaning the virus is detected but symptoms will never form in that individual.

This is not to be confused with people who are “presymptomatic.” Presymptomatic means a person has contracted a virus but has not developed symptoms yet. If you are asymptomatic, you may never know if you had the virus at all, while presymptomatic people will see the symptoms of the virus within a matter of days.

Currently, evidence suggests that both Asymptomatic and Presymptomatic people can pass the virus. This is why it is critical for every individual to take precautions such as wearing face masks and proper, frequent hand washing. Unless you have tested negative for the virus, there is no guarantee that you do not have it or that you are unable to pass it to others. Also, some tests for the virus may be reliable. Therefore, even this is not an absolute guarantee that you are not contagious.

Transmission: How is the Virus Passed?

There are still some questions about how the virus is transmitted but there have been strides made in determining the risk level of certain activities like handling packages and pinpointing which bodily fluids are able to transmit the virus.

Bodily Fluids that Contain the COVID-19 Virus

As COVID-19 is a respiratory illness, research has found there to be a concentration of the virus cells in respiratory droplets. In the plainest terms, this means mucus and saliva coming from the nose or mouth are the most likely way for the virus to spread.

However, the virus has also been found in blood (plasma) and stool samples as well. Research is still limited and it is not guaranteed that the virus will not be transmitted through other non-respiratory fluids including semen, vomit or urine.

How Other Coronaviruses Behave in Bodily Fluids

To further understand why we must be careful with all bodily fluids at this point, we look to how other coronaviruses are transmitted. For example, MERS-Cov is only transmitted through respiratory droplets.

In contrast, SARS-Cov, which was the cause of the SARS outbreak in 2002-03, was found to be viable in urine, blood, and stool along with respiratory droplets.

How Easily is COVID-19 Spread?

Current research suggests that the COVID-19 virus spreads more easily than previous viruses like SARS-Cov. The most likely reason for this is that the highest concentrations of the virus will be found directly after the first symptoms develop. This is an important distinction from SARS-Cov where sufferers had the highest concentrations of the virus later in their illness.

Because COVID-19 patients have more of the virus early on, it is more likely that they will spread it during the period when they do not feel as if they are sick. This is, again, why presymptomatic transmission is of great concern.

Will Symptoms Get Worse?

The slow development of symptoms and the long incubation periods are also why you should monitor your health and symptoms closely. For many patients, symptoms can start out mild in the first week but then advance in the second week of illness.

While the majority of patients will still not need hospitalization, worsening symptoms later in the illness is when you are most likely to need professional care. Trouble breathing is the biggest indicator that a patient requires medical intervention. Also, difficulty thinking and staying awake are indicators along with pain in the chest that persists.

Can the Virus be Spread by Touching Surfaces?

This seems to be the million-dollar question. While avoiding other people has been difficult, avoiding touching surfaces such as delivery boxes has proven even more daunting for many of us.

Fortunately, according to the Mayo Clinic, the risk of contracting the virus from surfaces is low and there have been no reported cases of the virus spreading this way. The best defence against this small possibility is to wash your hands thoroughly and to disinfect surfaces that are touched by multiple people, such as doorknobs.

Can it Spread Through Food?

Both food and water seem to be safe from spreading the disease. However, as an extra precaution, wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly and handle takeout containers with care. The Mayo Clinic recommends washing your hands after touching takeout containers then moving the contents to a clean plate and disposing of the container. Wash your hands once more before eating.

These extra precautions are, again, not considered necessary. However, proper handwashing and safe food handling is a good idea even without COVID-19 as a concern.

Can You Get COVID-19 Twice?

The answer to this is still not clear. Currently, there is not enough evidence to determine if it is possible to get COVID-19 twice. Immunity to the disease is not guaranteed nor is the duration of the immunity. Based on similar illnesses, there is a possibility that a person could be immune for a certain amount of time but will then become susceptible again.

Because of this, even people who have recovered from the illness should continue to practice safety measures. This includes social distancing and wearing personal protective equipment when appropriate.

Managing and Diagnosing Symptoms of COVID-19

Do you suspect you may have COVID-19? BCML physicians are here to help you manage and diagnose symptoms of COVID-19 and your total health. While the current pandemic is at the top of most people’s concerns, it is important to take your total health into consideration.

Managing chronic illnesses and performing preventative care can help keep you healthy if you do contract the virus. To help you, we offer telephone consultations during this difficult period. To schedule an appointment, contact us via 416-929-1900 today!

What is the COVID-19 Pandemic Disease?

July 9, 2020 by Bay College Medical and Lockwood Diagnostics

Just under 5 months ago, in January of this year, the first case of COVID-19 was reported in Canada. While this may feel like a lifetime ago, there are still things we do not know about this disease that has changed the way people live and work across the globe. We are still learning about the disease and projections are still being made about vaccines and a possible spike in cases later in the year.

Here we will look at the most recent information about COVID-19, and answer the question: what is the COVID-19 Pandemic disease?

Where Does the Term COVID-19 Disease Come From?

COVID-19 is an abbreviated form of coronavirus disease 2019. A coronavirus is one of a family of viruses that are named after the latin word “corona” which means crown. This is due to the way the cells of each virus looks as though it has a crown of protrusions covering it.

All coronaviruses are associated with respiratory illnesses which includes SARS (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome). Most coronaviruses will produce relatively mild symptoms similar to the common cold but some, like the one that causes COVID-19, can cause much greater problems.

This can start to get confusing as we will often hear people using coronavirus and COVID-19 interchangeably. However, coronavirus is a term used for many different viruses while COVID-19 disease is specific to the current pandemic and is “novel.” Novel, in this context, meaning that it is new and this is the first time it has been found in humans.

To help clarify, let’s look at some key terms to know:

Zoonotic Transmission

As we’ve discussed, coronaviruses are quite common and most only cause mild symptoms. However, when a coronavirus makes the jump from an infected animal to a human, we can get a much worse disease. Currently, it is not yet conclusive exactly how COVID-19 made the jump from animals to humans.

SARS-CoV-2

This is the abbreviated form of “Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2.” It is also the name of the virus that causes the COVID-19 disease. It is related to SARS-CoV which most of us are familiar with as simply SARS, a virus that also caused thousands of deaths between 2002 and 2004. The viruses have similarities but are not exactly the same. SARS has not had any known cases since 2004 and there is no treatment.

Disease Vs Virus

It is not uncommon to name a disease differently than the virus that causes it. For example, HIV is the virus while AIDS is the disease. The World Health Organization had, in part, refrained from using SARS-CoV-2 to reference COVID in official communication because the connection to the earlier SARS would have caused more panic. Ultimately, in relation to a virus, a disease is the result of the virus. It’s the blanket term used to reference all the symptoms associated with contracting the disease.

Incubation

This refers to the time it takes to show symptoms after a person has been exposed to the virus. It is not yet clear when a person will become contagious – during incubation or only once symptoms appear.

Asymptomatic

When someone carries a virus but does not show symptoms, they are asymptomatic. While an asymptomatic person may be able to spread the disease, it is not yet known how common this occurrence is.

Pandemic Vs Epidemic

It can seem that these two terms are used interchangeably but there is a distinct difference. An epidemic is the spread of a disease within a certain country or community. It may be widespread but it is still within one region or group of people. A pandemic, however, is the spread of a disease to multiple countries.

Why is COVID-19 Classified as a Pandemic?

COVID-19 has currently been found in 213 countries and on six continents. Only Antarctica has been spared from the disease thus far. By our definition of a pandemic, COVID-19 easily fits the requirements.

Why is SARS-CoV-2 Worse than Other Coronaviruses?

One of the reasons SARS-CoV-2 is more problematic than other coronaviruses is because it has a longer incubation period. Those with the virus will not know they have it and may still be able to pass it on to others. For example, the flu’s incubation period is typically around 1 to 4 days, while COVID’s could be up to 14. This leaves more time for COVID-19 to spread to others.

SARS-CoV-2 seems to also be easier to transmit than its predecessor, SARS-CoV. It is not certain why this is so, but a working theory is that those with the virus are able to transmit it to others earlier on. While SARS was more contagious as a person reached the peak of their symptoms, SARS-CoV-2 seems to spread when symptoms are mild or not even present.

Another reason this virus has become more deadly is because it is likely more contagious than other coronaviruses. This is because the virus is novel or new to humans. It passed from one or more animals until it was passed along to us and we do not have any built up defenses against it.

How is COVID-19 Different from the Flu?

While some people would like to believe that COVID-19 or SARS-CoV-2 is similar to the flu, there are actually far more differences than similarities. First of all, they are caused by different viruses and the flu is not a coronavirus.

More to the point, the flu is something that we have dealt with for decades and understand how to treat it and how it behaves. COVID-19 is a different story. The flu is seasonal and knowing this helps us prepare while COVID-19 could spike in the fall or it may not. We also have vaccines in place for multiple strains of flu and we have more built up resistance to it.

Currently, COVID-19 has also proven to lead to more fatalities. If you have seen estimates of fatal complications in the 1% to 2% range, it can seem that anxiety over the virus is blown out of proportion. However, consider the fact that this rate would mean 1 to 2 people out of a hundred could die from the disease. Additionally, if we look at the flu, only 0.10% of cases end in death which further highlights how thinking the two are the same could lead to even greater complications.

Symptoms of COVID-19 and When to Seek Medical Help

Like so many other factors related to COVID-19, symptoms are not 100% clear. Currently, the most common symptoms include fever, cough and difficulty breathing. Depending on the severity of your symptoms, you may be better off treating the illness at home unless you are having trouble breathing.

If this occurs, you should contact your doctor before going into the office. Your doctor can advise you on the best and safest way to seek medical attention without risking yourself or spreading the disease further. It is important as well to continue to monitor your health to ensure symptoms are not worsening.

BCML is Here for You

If you are experiencing symptoms you believe could be related to COVID-19, we encourage you to call BCML at 416-929-1900 to speak with an expert. Our knowledgeable medical team will guide you to the best care and solutions. We are also offering telehealth appointments for other medical conditions to further ensure safe social distancing and avoiding unnecessary trips.