Medical supplies

masks and supplies needed for front line health care workers.

When asked how supplies dropped so quickly from having ‘enough for a few weeks’ to being out of stock within three to seven days, Legault said some orders were not delivered and usage has gone up because of the increase in positive COVID-19 cases, but claimed his estimates were consistent with where supply levels are.

Minister Mccann added that currently, the province is using 10 times more equipment than usual. The health network is going through the protective gear normally used for one year in four weeks, she said.

Legault added that the shortage in Quebec is no different than in other countries.

“We’re all in the same situation,” he said.

Check in on people in isolation

Legault stressed the importance of reaching out to people who are alone in isolation.

“For those who are not alone, call someone who is alone,” the premier said.

“To get through this fight, we need to remain united. A phone call can make a big difference.”

During question period one reporter asked if the government had a plan in place for mental health services given the fact that there are waiting lists in the public system and many can’t afford private therapy.

Minister Mccann said there are currently around 325,000 Quebecers with a diagnosed mental health issue. Professionals are being asked to call and check in on those patients, as well as people on the waiting list. Mccann added that anyone who feels they need support should call their local CLSC. Assistance can be made available by phone, or other arrangements can be made.

There are also a number of phone lines outside the health care system available offering mental health support, Mccann said.

The reporter then asked how an overburdened system with a waiting list could suddenly accommodate everyone.

“The network is transforming,” Mccann replied.

Within 10 days, 30 per cent of professionals started offering teleconferencing and consultation options.

“We can’t do it all that way, but we can do a lot,” the minister said, adding that the recent changes in the network will benefit the population in the long term.

4,162 confirmed positive cases of COVID-19 in the province, up 732 from the day before.

Of the confirmed cases, 365 are in the Estrie region and 341 are in the Monteregie.

6 new deaths, bringing the total in Quebec to 31. 286 hospitalizations, 51 of which are new.

Four patients in intensive care, bringing the total to 82.