Coronavirus Update #14 & Expired HC
Dear patients,
NACI has release recommendations recently that patients who are experiencing myocarditis and/or pericarditis after a first dose mRNA vaccine should wait on their second dose until more information is available. Cases seem to be very rare and mild in nature (requiring only anti inflammatories and rest as treatment) but if you experience chest pain, palpitations, or shortness of breath within 1 week of your dose you should present to the ER or phone our office for further guidance.
If you received one or both of your vaccines out of province you should report their immunizations to Public Health by following this link and selecting the “Report an Out of Province Vaccination” tab. Once submitted Public Health will contact you within 5 business days to confirm whether or not the COVID-19 immunizations are valid in Ontario or if further information is required. Once verified, Public Health will add the information to the provincial database and residents will be able to retrieve their vaccination receipt from the Ontario online portal Ontario online portal. After verification if you need to received a second dose you can book your appointment through the online booking system. You must report your vaccination prior to booking your second dose.
If your health card has expired you must renew your health card online (if you are eligible to do so) or go in person to a Service Ontario centre to renew it. Without a valid health card your family physician will not be paid by OHIP for your visit. As such, you may be charged for your visit. If you renew your health card within 6 months of your visit and provide the office with an updated version code (2 letters at the end of your health card number) your physician will be able to then submit for payment from OHIP and your money can be reimbursed. If your updated version code is received over 6 months after your visit date we are unable to reimburse you for your visit.
See this website for steps on renewing your health card: https://www.ontario.ca/page/health-card-renewal#section-0
Thank you for your understanding.
Dr Priestner & Dr Archibald
