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Most Masking Requirements Lifted on June 11
Posted: June 10, 2022
Publié le 10 June 2022
Masking guidance and resources for Registered Dietitians
On June 8, 2022, the Ministry of Health (MOH) and the Chief Medical Officer of Health announced that the remaining provincial masking requirements would be lifted on Saturday, June 11, 2022. It is important to note that masks will still be required in long-term care and retirement homes.
Also, on June 11, 2022, the Directives #1, #2.1, #3, #4 and #5 have been revoked. The CMOH Guidance Document on Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for Health Care Workers and Health Care Entities is also now available on the Ministry's website. This provide guidance for health care workers and organizations and includes when masks should be worn in hospitals and other health care settings. Organizations may choose to implement their own masking policies.
Guidance for Registered Dietitians
The College encourages members to speak with their employers about masking requirements within their organizations. Dietitians working in private practice may wish to review and update their policies. As noted in the Ministry's COVID-19 Guidance Document on PPE, Public Health Ontario’s Interim Infection Prevention and Control Measures Based on COVID-19 Transmission Risks in Health Care Settings is a resource you may find helpful and may be amended from time to time.
When mandatory masking is removed, the College expects that some clients may wish to remain masked, some may want their dietitian to be masked, and some dietitians may request that their clients wear a mask.
If a dietitian determines that it would be appropriate to have a masking policy to minimize the risk of infection, they should communicate this to clients before their appointment. Be prepared to discuss respectfully with clients to explain why the policy is in place and alternatives you can offer if a client does not want to wear a mask. Alternatives may include, for example, virtual care or a referral to another healthcare provider that can accommodate them.
Risk assessment, careful communication, and reasonable professional judgment should continue to guide dietitians’ decisions on treatment and the use of personal protective equipment.
Dietitians should perform a point of care risk assessment before providing in-person care (see Guidance Documents noted above and supporting resources Public Health Ontario’s Performing a Risk Assessment Related to Routine Practices and Additional Precautions and Frequently Asked Questions on Interim IPAC Recommendations for Use of PPE In Health Care Settings). Consider rates of infection in your community, the vulnerability of populations attending the setting, risks associated with the care environment, and other relevant factors.
Additional Resources
The College encourages dietitians to stay informed on any changes in IPAC measures. Updates will be shared on this website and the College's social media (Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn).
Do you have questions? Contact the Practice Advisory Service at 416-598-1725 or 1-800-668-4990 Ext. 397, or at practice.advisor@collegeofdietitians.org.