The West Parry Sound Health Centre’s visitor limitations, including masking and rapid testing, are not going anywhere.
The news comes on the heel of the province’s Chief Medical Officer of Health’s decision to lift Ontario’s remaining masking requirements this weekend.
According to a statement posted on the centre’s website, WPSHC officials say safety for patients, essential visitors, staff, and physicians continue to be the number one priority at the centre.
WPSHC says the following requirements remain in place,
- Proof of COVID-19 vaccination status is an entry requirement and all visitors must test negative on a Rapid Antigen Test (RAT).
- For scheduled visits, visitors can go to Lakeland Long Term Care to receive an RAT between the hours of 7 to 11:45 a.m. and 1 to 4 p.m.
- Proof of vaccination is also required for entry into the testing area at Lakeland LTC. A visitor’s RAT result is valid for 24 hours.
- Upon arrival to the health centre, visitors will perform hand hygiene, don a mask and eye protection, be screened, and have their appointment confirmed prior to entry into patient care areas.
- Visitors who fail screening will be further assessed by clinical staff and will not be allowed entry if a health care risk is identified. Advice for follow-up at the Assessment Centre or Emergency Department will be provided.
- All visitors will be given a Visitor Guide that includes additional information regarding appropriate policies, expectations, and contact information.
- All visitors must wear an identifying lanyard which is returned to the screeners at completion of the visit.
- Visitors allowed special exceptions will be identified by a pink visitor ID badge.
- All visitors are responsible for following WPSHC policies and protocols and may have their visitation privileges revoked if unwilling and/or unable to do so.
- All health care team members are responsible to provide visitors with education and ongoing support regarding masking policy, physical distancing, hand hygiene, and the proper use of personal protective equipment.
Officials say the limitations and other precautions will remain in place to support infection prevention and control, and to protect the health centre’s ability to provide safe, sustainable care for the community.
If you are uncertain or have questions about visiting a patient at WPSHC, officials request you call 705-938-4719 before making a trip to the health centre, adding exceptions based on compassionate grounds can be discussed with members of the health care team.
For a full list of requirements including specific departments, click here: wpshc.com