Canadian Armed Forces Health Services Centre (Petawawa)
About the Unit
The Canadian Armed Forces Health Services Centre (Petawawa) (CAF H Svcs C (Pet)) is located in building P-144 at 4th Canadian Division Support Base Petawawa (commonly referred to as Garrison Petawawa). This Health Services Centre is one of 32 Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) clinics across the country whose role it is to provide health services to CAF members and other people entitled to come to us for their health care.
Our mission is to provide high quality patient-centered primary care focused on the health of the CAF community we serve.
Changes to Sick Parade
Sick parade has changed to in-person registration. To access sick parade services, please present to your designated CDU at 0730 hrs. Members will be registered on a first come, first served basis as there is a limit to the number of sick parade appointments each day.
Phone messages for appointments or inquiries will be returned after 0900 hrs.
Contact Us
Department Numbers
Services
COVID-19
Figure 1
Figure 1 - Text Version
The Garrison Petawawa Respiratory Illness Guide
Are you experiencing any of the following symptoms?
- Fever
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Runny nose
- Shortness of breath
- Muscle aches
- Fatigue
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal pain
If you are sick, notify your chain of command and seek their direction and guidance.
If you are a CAF member and need medical care, contact your CDU.
If you're sick, stay home until symptoms have improved for 24 hours. Reengage you chain of command if your symptoms do not improve.
Once you’re feeling better, wear a mask at work for at least 10 days from the onset of symptoms.
Everyone has a role in reducing the spread. wash your hands, cover your mouth, disinfect high-touch surfaces, and keep vaccinations up-to-date.
COVID-19 Testing
A separate procedure exists for operational and administrative testing. As testing turnaround times vary, we will require maximum notice regarding travel and deployments to ensure results are available in time for the anticipated travel. The average turnaround time for test results is now 48-72 hours and will need to be factored into the planning process. Requests for rapid testing should be indicated as such and will be approved on a case by case basis.
Operational testing will be available through booked appointments only. Unit Ops will need to complete the COVID-19 testing request form and email ++PET Clinic Ops & Trg@2 Fd Amb@Petawawa for processing.
Requests for symptomatic testing or “special requirement” testing shall be coordinated thru unit adjutant or delegate to the base surgeon as directed by the Garrison Petawawa Quick-Reference COVID-19 Tool.
Requirement: Military ID on pers. Current FHPMs will be adhered to.
Contact Information
Contact:CAF H Svc C (Pet) Ops & Trg Sgt
Phone: (613) 687-5511 ext 242-4106
BlackBerry: (613) 281-1634
COVID-19 Vaccine
To book a COVID-19 vaccine first/second or booster dose appointment, entitled CAF members can contact the clinic.
Phone: (613) 687-5511 ext 242-4147
Entitled members include:
- Regular Force
- Res Force Class B (greater than 180 days)/Class C
- Other (as per DHSO guidance and approval)
Appointments will be held at the CAF HS C (Pet).
If, under extenuating circumstances, members cannot make their appointment they should contact (613) 687-5511 ext 242-4147 as soon as possible.
Proof of Vaccination
For QR code inquiries, contact Medical Records.
Phone: (613) 687-5511 ext 242-4156
Email: ++PET Clinic Health Records@2 Fd Amb@Petawawa
Any of the following remain valid as proof of COVID vaccination for CAF members:
- Vaccination booklets
- International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis
- Vaccination record slips
- Vaccination record business cards
Members can refer to the following link for more information:
COVID-19 vaccines for Defence Team members - Canada.ca
For more information about the vaccine rollout please visit:
Care Delivery Units (CDU)
Hours of Operation
Sick parade: Monday to Friday 0730 - 1000
Booked appointments: Monday to Friday 0830 - 1530
The CDU is an interdisciplinary team of military and civilian health care providers who work collaboratively to meet the health needs of its CAF members and units, ensuring seamless continuity of care over time.
Below are a few elements that constitute the CDU.
Rostering
All CAF personnel are rostered to a CDU where a multidisciplinary clinical team provides care in a collaborative manner to patients. Patients from certain units or groups are rostered together in the same CDU to allow specialized mission-focused care for that unit.
CDU Staff
The CDU core team generally consists of a mix of civilian and military officers (MO), physician assistants (PA) and nurse practitioners (NP) along with three military medical technicians (Med Tech), a primary care nurse (PCN), and two civilian administrative support staff. The team is generally augmented by in-house physiotherapists, pharmacists and mental health professionals who provide care either in collaboration with the team or through direct intervention.
Collaborative Care
Within the CDU, each patient with chronic or ongoing health care needs will be assigned to a primary clinician to maintain continuity of care but at different times the patient might be seen and treated by other members of the CDU care team. The goal of this collaborative team approach is to ensure the patient sees the “right clinician” at the “right time” to address their needs in a flexible, efficient, and holistic manner. Therefore, the patient may see a Med Tech, PCN, NP, or a PA instead of a physician, depending on the patient’s health issue(s). The CDU staff may refer directly to a pharmacist, a physiotherapist or a mental health provider following a brief triage, without requirement to wait for a physician prescription or referral.
Choice of Clinician
Uniformed personnel must receive their care from the CFHS or from specific health care providers designated by the CFHS. Preferences for care providers can be discussed with the CDU primary care nurse for consideration, but ultimately the ability of a clinician to provide appropriate care to the patient will be the deciding factor in assigning clinicians.
Preferences may be considered for:
- Male or female providers;
- French-speaking or English-speaking providers / translators as available; and
- provider with special skills or knowledge (e.g. able to perform joint injections, gender reassignment, etc.).
Services
Sick Parade
Sick parade is not the same as a civilian acute care emergency room. Any member with injuries or illnesses that pose imminent risk to life or limb should seek care at the nearest civilian emergency department, or contact 911 immediately.
To access sick parade services, please present to your designated CDU at 0730 hrs. Members will be registered on a first come, first served basis as there is a limit to the number of sick parade appointments each day.
Phone messages for appointments or inquiries will be returned after 0900 hrs.
Sick parade is generally utilized to manage acute health care needs that are new onset issues (less than 48 hrs) or sudden worsening of chronic issues. These include but are not limited to the following:
- Recent musculoskeletal injuries
- Cold / influenza-like symptoms that have lasted longer than 10 days (or worsened in the last 48h), fever 39C or higher, earaches, difficulty swallowing
- Severe pain
- Shortness of breath / wheezing
- Acute mental health issues
Sick parade should generally not be utilized for the following:
- Chronic issues (existed beyond 72h)
- Prescription refills – plan ahead for refills by booking appointments in advance
- Chit extensions – plan ahead by booking follow-up appointments in advance
- Administrative needs
Note – Unit chains of command may grant up to two continuous calendar days of sick leave without recommendation of a medical officer (QR&O Vol 1, Ch. 16.16).
Urgent care outside of sick parade
Availability of urgent care services vary day-to-day. Contact the CDU to which you are rostered for available options. Notify the PCN if you will be accessing emergency services from the nearest civilian centre. All members admitted to civilian hospital without prior notice will call the CDU clerk on the day following their discharge from hospital, or next working day.
Periodic Health Assessment (PHAs/"Medicals")
PHAs generally include a part 1 & part 2 assessment, which may or may not be completed on the same day.
The part 1 assessment is conducted with a Medical Technician to assess baseline vital signs, height & weight, visual acuity, hearing acuity and also includes a generic patient questionnaire to be completed prior to your part 1 appointment. Blood work may be required for your PHA depending on your age and any known health conditions.
The part 2 assessment is a visit with a clinician for review of the questionnaire and examinations completed during the part one and for a full assessment of overall health and wellbeing. Your primary care provider may also discuss some forms of cancer screening, which include but are not limited to:
- Cervical Cancer Screening (PAP test);
- Breast Cancer Screening (mammogram); and
- Colorectal Cancer Screening (various methods – 50 years and over)
Important information before your PHA appointments:
- If you will be undergoing blood work, you must abstain from alcohol consumption for 48 hours prior to your appointment.
- You are encouraged to drink water up until the time of your part 1 appointment.
- You may take your prescribed medications as usual.
- Bring a list of all medications you take regularly.
- Contact lenses should not be worn for 12 hours prior to your Part 1 assessment; bring your eyeglasses (if applicable).
- Part 1 appointments take roughly 30 minutes to complete.
- Part 2 appointments take roughly 60 minutes to complete.
PHA periods of validity:
- Aircrew / Diver / Submariner: Valid one year
- Under 40 years old: Valid five years
- Over 40 years old: Valid two years
- Recruit medicals on enrolment: Valid two years
PHA required forms:
- DND 2552: Generic Health Assessment (Part 1) (accessible only on the National Defence network)
- CF HSS Hearing Assessment
- DND 2452: Aircrew and Diver Health Examination (Aircrew / Dive only)(accessible only on the National Defence network)
*Completing these forms in advance helps to keep appointment schedules on time.
OUTCAN / Isolated INCAN Medical Screenings
OUTCAN / Isolated INCAN Screenings are conducted within the CDUs. Upon receipt of your OUTCAN / Isolated INCAN posting screening message and associated form from your unit Orderly Room, you should contact the Psychosocial Services Department to schedule the psychosocial screening for you and your family. Next, you may contact the CDU to schedule an appointment with the Primary Care Nurse (PCN) to ensure that you understand the medical screening process and how to complete the required forms.
The following documentation is required for OUTCAN / Isolated INCAN screening appointments:
- DND 4164 – Outside Canada Posting Checklist (if applicable)
- DND 4176 – Posting Screening for Isolated Posting & Isolated Units (if applicable)
- DND 4342 – *Statement of Health for Dependant Postings Outside Canada or Isolated Locations within Canada – Signed by their healthcare provider
- Vaccination records for each dependent on your MPRR if they are accompanying you on the posting
*required for each dependent on your MPRR, regardless of whether or not they will be proceeding to the posting location with you or not).
Outside Referrals
All referrals initiated in the CDUs for outside services will be processed by the CDU clerks and sent to the appropriate specialist providers as indicated by your healthcare provider. You will then be contacted with the corresponding appointment dates and times once booking occurs. These appointments are dictated by outside agencies and we have no influence over wait times for external providers. If you have not received a call from the external agency after two months, please call the CDU clerk for an update.
Foreign Service Members
Foreign Service members attached or posted to CAF units and their dependents posted with them are entitled to regular care via CF H Svcs. Members or their dependents should report to the CDU to which the member is rostered. Provision of care for dependents can be outsourced to community providers for ease of access as appropriate.
Pre-Operative Appointments
If members have a surgery booked, they must book an appointment through the CDU with the PCN prior to the surgery date. They are to provide one week before the surgery for the appointment so that the PCN can complete all the admin paperwork and ensure the members’ needs are met.
Contact Information
CDU 1
Phone: (613) 687-5511 ext 242-4197/242-4198
Fax: (613) 588-4880
Email: +PET Clinic CDU1@2 Fd Amb-2 Amb C@Petawawa
CDU 2
Phone: (613) 687-5511 ext 242-4214/242-4216
Fax: (613) 588-4888
Email: +PET Clinic CDU2@2 Fd Amb-2 Amb C@Petawawa
CDU 3
Phone: (613) 687-5511 ext 242-4228/242-4229
Fax: (613) 588-4899
Email: +PET Clinic CDU3@2 Fd Amb-2 Amb C@Petawawa
Case Management (CM)
Hours of Operation
Monday to Friday 0730 - 1530
Services
Case management is the professional practice approach used by health systems to improve continuity of care, reduce health care costs, enhance clinical conditions, prevent costly complications, reduce duplication and gaps in services, strengthen informal support networks, and improve an individual’s satisfaction with health care.
CM does not replace any primary care services, but rather is designed to co-ordinate multiple services provided to an individual. It is a process model that provides a mechanism for managing cases across the continuum of care, thereby providing a seamless, integrated care process.
Both regular and primary reserve force personnel who are being medically released, have been placed on a permanent or temporary medical category, and/or have complex health care needs, are eligible for Nurse Case Management Program via referral from a treating clinician.
Nurse Case Management Program
What is case management?
CM is a collaborative and client centered process for providing services associated with the coordination of health care, health care related activities and benefits for ill and injured CAF members.
Who is a nurse case manager?
A nurse case manager (NuCM) is a degree prepared registered nurse who is part of the primary care team within the Canadian Forces Health Services.
What do nurse case managers do?
NuCMs assist members to navigate the health care system by coordinating their care as they return to duty or transition to civilian life and the provincial health care system
What are the benefits?
- You will learn more about CAF services, programs and benefits available to you.
- Your health care needs will be monitored and coordinated to ensure continuity.
- If you are medically releasing, the NuCM will provide support and guidance on how to access civilian health care.
- You may receive assistance in applying for related benefits.
Who is eligible and how is a member referred?
CAF members who have complex health care needs and/or are medically releasing. Referrals are completed by the primary care clinician or garrison surgeon.
Contact Information
Telephone: (613) 687-5511 ext 242-4141
Email: Case.Mngt@forces.gc.ca
Community Health - Allergy and Immunization
Hours of Operation
Monday to Thursday 0800 - 1500 (closed 1200 -1300)
Friday 0800 - 1200
Services
Allergy Desensitization Therapy (Immunotherapy)
Patients require referral from their primary care provider at their respective CDU to an allergist prior to commencing allergy desensitization therapy within Community Health (CH).
- Pre-seasonal, annual and perennial desensitization clinics
Immunizations
Individual appointments for immunizations can be made directly with CH during regular hours of operation. All services by appoinment only.
- DAG vaccination for North American, deployment and high readiness standards
- OUTCAN / Isolated INCAN screenings
- Leisure travel vaccination
- Release appointments
- Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination
- Influenza (flu) vaccination clinics
- COVID-19 vaccination clinics
Contact Information
Phone: (613) 687-5511 ext 242-4147
Dental
1 Dental Unit Detachment Petawawa is a Specialty Care Centre located on the second floor of building P-144. Along with regular dental treatment the dental clinic provides oral surgery, periodontal, and prosthodontic specialist treatment by referral.
Hours of Operation
Regular clinic: Monday to Friday 0700 - 1500
Sick Parade (emergency dental care): Monday to Friday report to the Dental Department at 0730.
*Important: Sick parade service is provided on a first come, first served basis. To ensure you are seen in a timely manner please report as early as possible. Patients requiring urgent care will be given priority.
Services
After Hours Emergency Procedure
All CAF Dental Detachments provide 24 hour/7 days a week service. When in the Petawawa area and outside of regular working hours dental service can be obtained by contacting the Petawawa Garrison Duty Centre, GEM Frederick Gate at (613) 687-5511 ext 5611 to reach the Duty Dental Team.
Treatment provided by a civilian practitioner outside the above guidelines is subject to the conditions outlined in CFAO 35-3.
Enrolment Procedure
Dental enrolment and re-enrolment exams are mandatory for Regular Force members and are available by appointment at their respective dental clinic.
If you are a member of the reserve force and require an enrolment exam (for members on Class B (over 180 days) or Class C service, or active aircrew), or on other occasions as required, contact the dental clinic to schedule an appointment.
Release Procedure
Release exams are not mandatory. However, for members desiring an exam prior to release, an appointment can be scheduled during normal clinic hours.
Important: Release does not provide any priority for completion of outstanding treatment. There is no required condition of dental fitness upon release. Unfinished work will not be completed beyond a member's effective date of release.
Screening Procedure
Screening exams for military members are provided Monday to Friday during normal clinic hours and require scheduled appointments.
Screening exams for dependants and other civilians are not provided by the CAF Dental Detachment. Such screenings must be completed in accordance with CFAO 35-5.
Annual (Phase-1) Exam Procedure
All CAF members are reminded that it is ultimately the member's responsibility to ensure they obtain a phase one exam.
Unit Command Teams are reminded they have a responsibility to ensure their personnel are deployable and dentally fit.
All regular force members, reserve class "C", and reserve class "B" >180 days can receive a phase one exam in accordance with QR&O 35.04.
Contact Information
Reception: (613) 687-5511 ext 242-2400
Clinic Coordinator: (613) 687-5511 ext 242-2402
Detachment Commander: (613) 687-5511 ext 242-2401
Infection Prevention and Control (IPAC)
Hours of Operation
Monday to Friday 0730 - 1500
Available for consultation to CAF HS C (Pet) and outlying satellite clinic staff.
Any questions or concerns regarding Brigade or Base Infection Prevention and Control should be redirected to Preventative Medicine.
Infection Prevention and Control Mission
IPAC is dedicated to preventing infections which may be acquired within health care facilities. Our mission is to promote IPAC best practice in primary and ambulatory care, through development, implementation, and evaluation of strategies designed to prevent the transmission of infections.
IPAC roles and responsibilities at the CAF HS C (Pet)
- Consultation
- Education
- Surveillance
- Research
- Outbreak management
- Construction and renovation risk management
- Reviews (infection control practices)
- Policy interpretation and recommendations
We serve as professional technical advisors with regard to healthcare associated infections and emerging IPAC issues. This includes advising and liaising with CAF HS C (Pet) patient safety officers to investigate IPAC related patient safety concerns and serving as a member of the local Joint Occupational Safety and Health Committee.
IPAC integral competencies
- Knowledge of infectious disease processes & microbiology
- Routine practices and additional precautions
- Auditing & surveillance
- Principles of epidemiology
- Research utilization and education principles
Laboratory
Hours of Operation
Monday to Friday 0800 - 1200
Lab is located to the left of the commissionaire's service desk when entering from the main doors.
Appointments
If a lab requisition is required, member is to contact their CDU for screening first.
If member has their lab requisition, they can check-in at the lab.
Contact Information
Phone: (613) 687-5511 ext 242-4113
Medical Finance - Blue Cross
Hours of Operation
Monday to Friday 0830 - 1500 (closed 1200 - 1300)
Services
The medical finance section located in room 1027 can assist you in obtaining reimbursement for your medical expenses or by emailing scans to the health services clerk under contact information.
A friendly reminder that the CAF has implemented changes to the optical policy in 2019, and patients are encouraged to review entitlements Optical Supplies and Services and to ensure they have obtained from medical finance the information package with instructions for reimbursement/submission before proceeding with an eye exam or glasses purchase.
Contact Information
Phone: (613) 687-5511 ext 242-4152
Email: Christine.Tetz@forces.gc.ca
Note: If utilizing the email/phone service offering digital copies of the information package and requisite forms for your selected service will be provided when you contact the office, but are also available in printed hard copy at the service counter.
Medical Records
Hours of Operation
Monday to Friday 0730 - 1530 (closed 1230-1300)
Contact Information
Head of Medical Records Department: Julia Bell
Email: julia.bell@forces.gc.ca
Phone: (613) 687-5511 ext 242-4156
Fax: (613) 588-6952
Medical Records Reception
Email: kirsten.fleguel@forces.gc.ca
Phone: (613) 687-5511 ext 242-4237
Location: Room 1056B
Obtaining Medical Records
All releasing members will receive a Releasing CAF Member Documents Package, usually in electronic format but sometimes as a printed package. This will include, at minimum, the following:
- Scan-CF2017 Medical Examination for Release
- PHA Part 2 Medical Note (for the past 5yrs)
- Scan-Audiogram OR Scan-CF2036 Audiogram
- Scan-Visual Acuity
- Scan-Medication Reconciliation OR list of Current Medications
- Immunization Summary
- All laboratory results (for the past 5yrs)
The Releasing CAF Member Documents Package can and should be provided to any primary care physician or specialist assuming aspects of your care after release. In the majority of cases, the release medical package provides a sufficient summary of your medical documentation. In some select circumstances, there may also be handoff of your care from a CAF clinician to a primary care provider or specialist.
If you apply for VAC benefits, VAC will directly access your medical records through CFHS. VAC will not use medical records provided by a member to adjudicate requests, even if you provide them.
You may need portions of your medical records not included in the medical release package, whether to assist you in preparing a VAC claim or for other purposes. You have the right to request portions (or all) of your medical records at any time while you are serving or after release, in accordance with DAOD 1002-1, Privacy Act Requests and Correction of Personal Information. The recommended process is to make an informal request for your medical records as follows:
- Currently Serving and Released up to 1 year
CAF members currently serving or released up to 1 year can request a copy of their personal health information from CAF health records. They can contact the clinic medical records section and / or dental clinics directly. A DND 4794 - Informal Request for Copies of One’s Own Personal Health Information (PHI) from CAF Health Records can be used to submit the request. - Released over 1 year
CAF members released over 1 year can request a copy of their personal health information from CAF health records by email at RDT-DM@forces.gc.ca. A DND 4794 Informal Request for Copies of One’s Own Personal Health Information (PHI) from CAF Health Records can be used to submit the request.
Medical Travel Claims
Hours of Operation
Monday to Friday 0730 - 1500 (closed 1200-1300)
For appointments within the geographical area
In the event that you are unable to obtain transportation to your local appointment it is your responsibility to report to your Unit Orderly Room to make such arrangements. *IAW ADM (HR-MIL) Instruction 08/05 (accessible only on the National Defence network)
Authority for compensation of local health-related travel within the geographical boundaries of a member's support base/wing rests with the member's base/wing commander.
For appointments outside geographical area
All members are required to report to the CAF H Svcs C (Pet) primary care nurse (PCN) as soon as they know the date/time of the upcoming appointment (minimum 3-5 days in advance) for an MTA and travel instructions. Options for travel are as follows:
1. Medical / Dental Run (MDR)
The Medical Dental Run (MDR) is a transportation service offered by the CAF H Svcs C (Pet) for military patients travelling to Ottawa. Members must be added to the roster at least 2 days prior of intended travel. The PCN will authorize the booking on the MDR through the MTA form sent to the travel clerk.
MDR departs at 0630 from the main entrance and returns once all members have been picked up from their appointments.
**Note: Patients are required to maximize the use of the MDR and schedule their out of town appointments, whenever possible, in a manner which will effectively use the service.
2. DND Vehicle (Staff Car)
When a patient's appointment is outside the normal hours of the MDR or it has been determined by a clinician that the patient requires individual travel means, a staff car may be authorized. It is the home unit's responsibility to provide a driver/escort for the patient, if required.
The travel claims clerk will make the necessary arrangements with Base Transport to request a vehicle. Requests must be obtained through the MTA form at least two days prior to intended travel.
3. POMV
When the member chooses to do so, or when pre-authorized by a clinician due to clinical requirements, a patient may take their own vehicle to the appointment. There will be no financial reimbursement for travel unless POMV is pre-authorized by a clinician.
Member's choice to use POMV when other methods of travel could have been used, will not be reimbursed. POMV may also be authorized if the patient, by order of a clinician, requires an escort who may or may not be civilian. The patient may be entitled to meals depending on the appointment timing.
For all methods of travel, a pre-authorization form signed by clinician is required in order to receive travel reimbursement.
Medical Escorts
As directed by a clinician with a pre-authorization form, a patient may require an escort for a medical appointment. It is the home unit's responsibility to provide this escort if the patient cannot provide.
Overnight Accommodations
When determined necessary due to the patients individual medical needs, The clinician may authorized an overnight stay in the appointment location.
Reimbursement of overnight accommodations will be based off the max city rate limit as determined by the Government Accommodation Directory.
Appointments scheduled prior to 0700 in Ottawa, may be eligible for an overnight accommodation the night prior depending on the patients individual medical needs.
Contact Information
Phone: (613) 687-5511 ext 242-4150
Email: James.Abramcryk@forces.gc.ca
Mental Health (MH)
Hours of Operation
General: Monday to Friday 0730 - 1500 (closed 1200 - 1300)
Mental Health Intake services: Walk-in or same-day virtual appointments Monday to Friday 0730 - 1500 (closed 1200 - 1300)
All other Mental Health services: Virtual or in-person appointments Monday to Friday 0730 - 1500 (closed 1200 - 1300)
Services
CAF H Svcs C (Pet) offers a dynamic Mental Health Department comprised of several different sections: Mental Health Intake services (MH Intake), Psychosocial Services (PSS), General Mental Health (GMH).
After Hours Mental Health Care
24/7 mental health emergency care for both CAF and Ontario Health Services (OHS):
- 911 or nearest emergency room, follow up with your CDU the next business day
- Emergency CAF Padre: (613) 687-5511 ext 5611
- Military Police: (613) 687-5511 ext 4002
- CAF Family Information Line: 1 (800) 866-4546
- Pembroke Regional Hospital: (613) 732-2811
- Operational Stress Information services: (613) 732-9051, or (613) 687-5511 ext 2699
Other Mental Health Resources
- Victim services: (613) 687-5511 ext 5900
- Family Liaison: 1 (800) 866-4546
- Mental Health Crisis Line (24hrs): 1 (866) 996-0991
- Canadian Forces Member Assistance Program (CFMAP): 1 (800) 268-7708
- Petawawa Military Family Resource Centre (PMFRC): (613) 687-7587
Mental Health Intake
MH Intake services are often the first point of contact for CAF members seeking mental health care at CAF H Svcs C (Pet). Employing a team of MH nurses, MH Intake services offer same-day walk-in services or telehealth appointments for CAF members seeking MH care. After conducting an intake, the MH nurse will collaborate with the patient to develop a care plan, liaise with the member’s primary care clinician and facilitate referral to the appropriate mental health service in the MH Services dept. To access MH Intake services, please report to your CDU.
Psychosocial Services
Psychosocial services are available at CAF H Svcs C (Pet) to help CAF members deal with issues such as family-related concerns, and compassionate posting issues. Social workers staff the Psychosocial Services Program and are located in the MH department in Building P-144. CAF members may be referred by MH Intake services or primary care clinicians.
The following services are available through the Psychosocial Services Program:
Short Term Counselling Services
Short term individual and couples counselling services are available to address psychosocial related issues. Members can self-refer through MH intake or be referred by their primary care provider.
Pre-Deployment Screenings
Prior to deployment it is mandatory that all CAF members undergo a pre-deployment screening. The service member and spouse will be interviewed. Units with significant numbers preparing for deployment will have the medical component of their DAG coordinated through the AAG/DAG coordinator via ++PET Clinic Ops & Trg-2 Amb C Cie GS Ops & Instr@2 Fd Amb-2 Amb C@Petawawa
Post-Deployment Screenings
Every CAF member should receive an enhanced post deployment screening 90-120 days after returning from theatre of operations, which involves completing a post-deployment screening questionnaire and interview. Members who deployed on short term taskings (59 days or less) do not require an interview. To book an appointment call MH intake reception, (613) 687-5511 ext 242-4100.
OUTCAN Screening
As part of the screening process for postings outside of Canada, psychosocial screenings are completed by social workers with the whole family unit. To book an appointment, call MH services reception, (613) 687-5511 ext 242-4100.
Social Work Reports
Psychosocial assessments are completed by social workers to provide commanding officers (COs) with professional assessments of the exceptional personal circumstances of CAF members and their families in order to assist in making decisions and recommendations related to those circumstances. No medical or clinical information is shared outside the clinical team. Common requests that warrant a social work report include contingency cost moves, compassionate status or postings and early release for compassionate reason. Social work report assessments must be requested by a member’s CO to the PSS Program Manager, Pamela Proctor at Pamela.Proctor@forces.gc.ca.
Family Violence Advisory Team (FVAT)
The role of the FVAT is to be a focal point for coordinating education and interventions in the matter of family violence. This includes providing professional development training to units and COs, as well as providing assistance to COs and CAF members dealing with family violence. For more information, members may contact the PSS Program Manager: Mrs. Nancy Sinclair, Nancy.Sinclair@forces.gc.ca.
Operational Trauma and Stress Support Centre (OTSSC)
The OTSSC program offers clinical assessment and treatment for various psychological, psychiatric, and substance-related issues that may or may not be linked to military taskings and operational deployments. This team of social workers, psychologists, psychiatrists and clinical chaplain provides specialized treatment for traumatic stress injuries. Referrals to the OTSSC must come from a primary care clinician (PA, NP, MD). Self-referral will not be accepted. For more information, please contact the GMH program manager at (613) 687-5511 ext 242-4100.
General Mental Health Services (GMH)
The GMH program offers assessment and treatment for all other psychological, psychiatric, and substance-related issues. They are located in the MH department on the second floor of building P-144, past the Physiotherapy department.
- The GMH program is an interdisciplinary team consisting of psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, addictions counsellors, and clinical chaplains.
- Referrals to GMH must come from a primary care clinician (PA, NP, MD). Self-referral will not be accepted.
- Referrals for diagnostic assessments are assigned to appropriate teams and patients are accordingly scheduled for an appointment with a psychologist or psychiatrist. A diagnostic impression and treatment recommendations are provided to the patient and the referring primary care clinican.
- Diagnostic assessments are being conducted primarily either in person or virtual platforms (eg. telephone/televideo). A need for any in-person assessments will be determined by the assessing clinician.
- Referrals for external provision of care (e.g. psychotherapy) are also received and processed from primary care and mental health services.
- Community providers are also using virtual platforms which may vary from provider to provider and may involve video and/or telephone sessions for their individual, couple or group therapy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about care by an external provider
1. I have been referred to an “external provider” for my treatment, what does that mean?
After an initial assessment, your clinician has determined that ongoing treatment to address your mental health needs is warranted. However, this service is not available within our clinic at this time. Therefore, we have a number of external treatment providers available in the community to meet these needs.
2. Who are these external providers and are they qualified to treat me?
The external providers we use in the community are either social workers or psychologists who are registered with their respective provincial colleges. This means they are regulated and approved to practice in Ontario. They meet the same levels of qualification that internal CAF clinicians meet.
3. Do I have to pay for these external services?
No, the external provider will bill the Blue Cross system and the military will cover the cost of your treatment. However, as a CAF member you are responsible:
- To ensure that all scheduled appointments are attended or rescheduled;
- In some cases, to pay for any missed appointments without having given appropriate notice, usually 24 hrs (this is your personal financial responsibility, please refer to CANFORGEN 196/18);
- To sign the claim forms to confirm services have been rendered and to authorize the release of health information back to the CAF; and
- To show the provider your Medavie Blue Cross Card, along with a photo ID.
4. What about parking and transportation to these services?
Transportation to these appointments and any fees related to parking are the responsibility of the patient to file. While some CAF units may be unable to cover the costs of parking for their members, CAF H Svcs C (Pet) and Blue Cross are able to reimburse these costs. Please discuss this with the referring clinician so that you can be appropriately referred.
5. If I know of a therapist in the community can I request to see him/her?
If the external provider is on the list of approved providers we will do our best to refer to this individual. While it may be possible to add a new provider to our list, they must undergo a verification process first, which may delay your treatment. If you do decide to seek services from a provider without a referral and they are not on our approved list of external providers, the services will not be covered through Blue Cross.
6. Does the mental health staff at the CAF HS C (Pet) keep track of my progress in treatment?
Yes, a clinician who coordinates external care will review the documentation, called a “Progress Report” completed by the external provider. After approximately seven sessions, you will be contacted by the coordinator and asked to return to the CAF Health Services Centre for a brief appointment called a “mental health progress check”.
7. What is a “progress check”?
This mandatory appointment is to ensure that you are satisfied with your care, your treatment needs are being met and you are progressing in therapy.
8. How often do I have to have a progress check?
After your initial progress check, you will be contacted by a CAF HS C (Pet) mental health staff member approximately every ten sessions to have another progress check. Often people do not require more than ten sessions in which case you would not be contacted for an appointment.
9. If I am unhappy with my external provider is there a process for changing my therapist?
Yes, should the external provider not be meeting your treatment needs you may either contact the clinician who made the referral for treatment or the external care coordinator or the general mental health team lead to discuss the situation.
10. Are the sessions with the external provider confidential?
Yes. Confidentiality is considered essential for treatment. Information that you provide during therapy will not be released to anyone outside the medical system without your consent. However, your external provider is considered part of the CAF “Circle of Care” and will provide the medical staff at CAF H Svcs C (Pet) with regular progress reports of your treatment. These reports are filed in your medical chart (the CF Health Information System (CFHIS)). Your CO does not have the right to access your specific medical information.
Please Note: There are legal, ethical and professional exceptions to confidentiality, which require that providers take responsible action. Your service provider, prior to delivery of service, will discuss these exceptions with you.
11. I am about to be released from the military. Can I continue with my external provider?
If you wish to continue to see the external provider after releasing from the military you will be responsible for payment. If your release is due to medical reasons and you have been pensioned by the Department of Veteran’s Affairs, you may be eligible to have the sessions covered through this organization. Please contact your VAC pension officer or your CAF case manager prior to your release to discuss this option.
If you require additional information, please call (613) 687-5511 ext 242-4100.
Contact Information
Mental Health intake reception: (613) 687-5511 ext 242-4100
Mental Health services reception: (613) 687-5511 ext 242-4100
Pharmacy
Hours of Operations
Monday to Friday 0745 - 1500 (closed 1200 - 1300)
The CAF H Svcs C (Pet) Pharmacy is located in building P-144 and to the far left when entering through main entrance.
New Prescriptions
Present to the pharmacy with new prescriptions during business hours. Wait times vary depending on the amount of patients ahead waiting in queue.
Prescriptions & Over-The-Counter (OTC) Renewals (Refills)
Order by phone (613) 687-5511 ext 6188 or by presenting in person to the pharmacy.
*Refill orders will require two business days to be ready for pick up.
Contact Information
Phone: (613) 687-5511 ext 6188
Fax: (613) 588-4468
Physiotherapy/Occupational Therapy
Hours of Operation
New Injuries: Teletriage/sick parade via appropriate CDU (see Health Service Support, Primary Care updates for details)
Follow-up/Appointments/Other Issues: call (613) 687-5511 ext 242-4125/242-4126 for appointment
Monday to Friday 0730 - 1530 (closed 1200 - 1300)
Physiotherapy
The mission of physiotherapy in the Canadian Armed Forces is to deliver quality services by assessing, educating and treating people with musculoskeletal and cardio-respiratory impairments, functional limitations and disabilities. To accomplish this, we employ a variety of treatments including: therapeutic exercises, postural and ergonomic training, joint mobilization and manipulation, soft tissue techniques, acupuncture, electrical modalities and hydrotherapy.
Occupational Therapy
The CAF Occupational Therapy (CFOT) program is committed to providing quality home, clinic, and work/unit rehabilitation to CAF personnel. The CFOT Program objective is to provide recovery, restoration and return to duty services to military personnel in order to assist them in reaching their highest level of independent functioning in everyday essential activities. The primary goal of CFOT is to assist members in participating in their rehabilitation plans, focusing on self-management and functional outcomes through a comprehensive approach, often within a multidisciplinary team.
Our occupational therapists also employ a variety of treatments including ergonomics assessments, functional ability evaluations (FAEs), concussion treatments, orthotic fabrication and return to duty programs.
Preventative Medicine (PMed)
Hours of Operation
Monday to Friday 0730 - 1530 (closed 1200 -1300)
Services
Public Health Division
All activities of Preventive Medicine Services are conducted under the authority of the Base Surgeon. These services include food safety, hygiene and sanitation inspections, and investigations of indoor pests. Additionally, the services cover communicable disease reporting, contact tracing, and animal bite investigations. The department provides guidance to base members and units on all public health matters and is involved in the pre-deployment preparation of military personnel. Preventive Medicine Services also conduct assessments and testing related to the Base Water Quality Surveillance Program, including the annual certification of water trailers and cisterns. Finally, the service monitors thermal stress conditions and issues recommendations applicable to military working and training conditions.
Occupational Health Division
The Occupational Health Division conducts workplace assessments and related environmental surveys, such as sound and ventilation. The department also provides advice on the selection, care, and use of respirators for workplace use.
Contact Information
Water trailers and cisterms certification
Monday to Wednesday 0900 - 1200
To book an appointment, submit request via +PMED Trouble Desk@ 2 Fd Amb@Petawawa
PMed general inquiries
Email: +PMED Trouble Desk@ 2 Fd Amb@Petawawa
X-Ray
Hours of Operation
Monday to Friday 0730 - 1500 (closed 1200 - 1300)
The x-ray department is on a walk-in basis. Member must bring a completed x-ray requisition and their military ID to the x-ray department.
Contact Information
Phone: (613) 687-5511 ext 242-4137
Command Team
Clinic Manager
Lieutenant Commander Kristian Cunningham, CD
Clinic Sergeant Major
Master Warrant Officer Larry Newman, CD
Contact Information
Canadian Armed Forces Health Services Centre (Petawawa)
PO Box 9999 Station Main, Building P-144
Petawawa, ON K8H 2X3
Base operator: (613) 687-5511
Department Extensions
Mental Health: 242-4100
CDU 1: 242-4197 or 242-4198
CDU 2: 242-4214 or 242-4216
CDU 3: 242-4228 or 242-4229
Dental: 242-2400
Pharmacy Refill: 6188
Physiotherapy: 242-4125 or 242-4126
Allergy & Immunization: 242-4147
Case Management: 242-4141
Preventative Medicine: 242-4132
Laboratory: 242-4113
X-Ray: 242-4137 or 242-4138
Medical Records: 242-4237
Medical Travel: 242-4150
Medical Finance: 242-4152
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