Hospital restricts visitors due to COVID surge

LEAMINGTON – With cases of COVID-19 increasing rapidly in the community, Erie Shores HealthCare (ESHC) has implemented a ‘no visitors’ policy with only limited exceptions, which came into effect on December 30, 2021.

According to a news release issued last week, this action is being taken out of extreme caution for the safety of both patients and staff.

“This was not an easy decision, and ESHC can appreciate this will cause anxiety and stress for our patients and their loved ones,” said the statement. “However, it was necessary as COVID cases rise in Ontario. As you know, ease of spread, climbing transmission rates, and increased positive rates for tests, are putting unprecedented pressure on capacity within the system.”

ESHC has introduced limited exceptions to their no visitor policy:

• One visit by one visitor to a patient who is actively dying.

• One support person for a woman in labour.

• One parent/guardian of an ill newborn, child or youth.

• One support person per patient with dementia/cognitive impairment.

ESHC utilizes medical translation services, but a translator will be allowed in only if necessary.

“ESHC remains committed to patient and family-centered care and will make every effort to ensure that the needs of patients and families are met while these temporary measures are in place,” the statement said. “We pledge to support family presence to ensure the emotional wellbeing of patients by allowing alternative options to in-person visitation with our Virtual Visit Program.”

Anyone who has specific questions about this temporary measure, including the policy on dropping off personal items, should visit: https://www.erieshoreshealthcare.ca/visitorhours.