Accessing Care for Sick Children

The provincial healthcare system is currently dealing with a difficult and complex combination of respiratory illnesses including COVID-19, influenza and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV). This scenario is contributing to pressures, particularly in the paediatric sector, and parents are sometimes struggling to know when and where to bring their child in for health care.

The City of Lakes Family Health Team (COLFHT) is aware of the situation and will continue to make primary care as accessible as possible for its patients. In addition to in-person appointments, we also offer virtual care appointments, as appropriate, by phone, video or secure messaging. We also offer after hour clinics five times a week for urgent care, usually in the evenings. Patients of the COLFHT can also contact Health Connect Ontario 24/7 by calling 811 or 1-866-797-0007 or by going to Health Connect Ontario. 

Here are a few additional information resources for parents who are concerned about their children’s symptoms:

Ontario College of Family Physicians

• Family Doctor Tips on Caring for Children with Respiratory Symptoms​

 
Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario (CHEO)

• Information for families and caregivers on children’s fever and pain medication
• Deciding to come to the Emergency Department

Canadian Pediatric Society

• ​Fever & Temperature Taking