Triage COVID-19 testing

Re: Second wave looms yet testing centres are refusing people, Sept. 16

There seems to be a lack of proper planning and consideration for the sick, elderly and disabled in the COVID-19 testing process.

The process seems to be first-come, first-served, and apparently some people are being turned away due to lack of time or resources.

How are those with physical disabilities, those who are already somewhat ill but do not need emergency care, and those who are unable to stand for extended periods of time supposed to languish in line — potentially for hours — while awaiting testing?

Why has there not been the institution of triage to prioritize those with disabilities and infirmities?

This reminds me of the lineups for H1N1 vaccine when the health ministry set up public clinics to allow for mass immunization that was meant to serve those with pre-existing medical conditions. Those individuals should have been the priority (for immunization).

The press coverage (for H1N1) showed hours-long lineups comprised of young adults and children who seemed perfectly healthy and who did not seem to meet the criteria for prioritization. There was no screening done to determine actual need for early vaccination, potentially leaving out those who should have been vaccinated first.

Just another mishandled public-health service showing lack of planning and thought.

Dr. T. Weinberger (retired family physician), Toronto