August 27, 2021—There has been speculation that the Sicamous Community Health Centre requires proof of vaccination for patients to receive care. This information is false and incorrect.

The Sicamous Community Health Centre does not require patients to be vaccinated; however, it does require patients 12 years and older to wear a mask as outlined in the Order of the Provincial Health Officer (PHO).

The Sicamous Community Health Centre’s policy on unvaccinated patients is that of the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia’s, which states:

“Registrants must ensure unvaccinated patients are given the same access to care as vaccinated patients. It would be indefensible from an ethical point of view for a registrant to require documented proof that a patient has been vaccinated as a prerequisite for attending their office. However, it is reasonable for a registrant to request that patients report their vaccine status to them. Once aware of a patient's vaccine status, registrants should manage appointment times in a way that does not compromise the health of other patients or their medical office staff.”

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Resources:

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• Sicamous Community Health Centre
• Proof of vaccination requirement
• PHO order on masks in public indoor settings
• College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia