The Alberta government is increasing access to a screening tool for COVID-19.
Health Minister, Tyler Shandro announced this morning that organizations can administer their own screening programs without having to spend time and money seeking a professional.
“As cases are on the rise, we know that many organizations can benefit from rapid screening programs, in order to catch cases early and break chains of transmission,” says Shandro in a statement.
“We have heard from Alberta’s business community and other organizations that hiring a health-care provider was a significant and costly barrier for many organizations. This change will allow more organizations to access rapid testing kits without compromising health and safety.”
The press release goes on to say that employers and service providers must have: protocols for performing the tests, processes for reporting results and managing those who test positive, and the use of PPE.
The province will be working with the Alberta Chambers of Commerce to come up with a program specific to chamber members, but President, Ken Kolby welcomes the news.
“The removal of the requirement to have a health-care professional oversee the rapid screening program will remove a cost barrier to small and medium enterprises participating in this program,” says Kolby.
This will permit a wider and faster adoption of the rapid test program. It will also free up health-care professionals to more effectively use their skills in fighting this pandemic.”
Ontario is another province that recently removed the requirement for oversight by a healthcare professional.
