The Ministry of Health says under the COVID-19 domestic health service programme initiated to monitor COVID-19 patients at homes who don’t exhibit serious symptoms, 9,606 individuals are currently being monitored.
Director of Tertiary Care Services of the Ministry Dr. Ayanthi Karunarathne speaking at a media briefing said 3,162 such patients are being monitored in the Colombo District, 1,883 in the Gampaha DIstrict and 1,712 in the Kalutara District.
Dr. Karunarathne said 26,173 individuals who were monitored under the programme have recovered and are currently engaged in day to day activities.
She noted that individuals are selected for the programme following determinations by the Public Health Inspectors or Medical Officers of Health, adding that a COVID positive patient’s symptoms, living conditions at home, caregivers and telephone facilities are all considered.
Dr. Karunaratne said the public can contact 1390 to obtain recommendations on individuals who are eligible for the domestic care programme.
She said only patients registered as part of the programme are eligible for this facility, adding that the 1390 hotline was established for patients in domestic care to contact in the event of an emergency.
Dr. Karunarathne said patients are registered based on certain categories such as above two years of age, below 65 years of age, those with chronic illnesses and expectant women 24 weeks or less, and other categories.
