Healthcare workers at COVID testing centres are reporting being intimidated, threatened, and harassed, according to a statement issued by the province.
Dr. Bonnie Henry, B.C.’s provincial health officer, Adrian Dix, minister of health, and Mike Farnworth, minister of public safety and solicitor general issued a joint statement reminding the public of the newly established Access to Services Act.
“The Government of B.C. recently brought into force the Access to Services Act to help protect the safety and well-being of health-care workers at testing centres, and impeding services or intimidating workers at these sites is illegal,” the statement reads.
“Incidents of threats and aggressive behaviour will be reported to police. Our health-care workers need a safe and respectful workplace, free of abuse and threats of violence, so they can continue their work to keep us safe.”
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The statement says it is important to follow public health advice and only seek a test if it is necessary.
People should only access testing if they have symptoms of COVID-19, and have had a test recommended by a medical professional or the COVID-19 self-assessment tool.
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