Long lines and wait times are frustrating people visiting Orillia’s Memorial Avenue LifeLabs medical centre.
With the company’s O’Brien Street location shut down since the pandemic began, and enhanced COVID-19 protocols in place at its Memorial Avenue clinic, patient processing and capacity is limited.
That leaves patients who don’t have access to the company’s mobile registration system lining up in the elements for access to vital services.
“I had to wait an hour,” lamented Maree VanAlstine, who recently visited the lab specializing in medical testing, diagnosis and preventive healthcare.
Alongside her, elderly patients waited with walkers, some sat on lawn chairs and the line stretched alongside the strip of storefronts where LifeLabs is located.
Those kinds of lineups haven't been an issue for VanAlstine in the past.
“Before, they had you wearing masks and waiting in the waiting room,” said VanAlstine. “Before it was far better.”
LifeLabs was unable to be reached for an interview but in an emailed statement said that COVID-19 has led to a staffing shortage. That’s what is behind the long wait times.
“We are experiencing significant staffing challenges as a result of the pandemic,” wrote Roy Saad, communications manager with LifeLabs.
“This has resulted in some temporary changes in our regular hours of operation, including closures to accommodate our current staffing complement. We recommend that our customers book an appointment or utilize the Save my Spot check-in app for same-day service and to reduce the time at our collection sites.”
Some aren't even aware of the on-line option.
“I didn't know that we could book online to get in,” said VanAlstine. “Now that I know, that’s a good system.”
Many who endure the long waits are elderly. VanAlstine says she thinks they’re the ones that need better communication from LifeLabs.
“The ones that should be getting in there are the elderly, and they don’t know, because they don’t have the access to mobile phones.”
VanAlstine says LifeLabs should post a “big sign” out front of the building, and letting patients “know that they can access services online.”
More information on LifeLabs current procedures can be found here: https://www.lifelabs.com/covid-19-updates/patient-information/
