Burlington hospital eases restrictions on visitors, but COVID-19 vaccine still mandatory

Burlington | Halton | COVID | Health | Latest News |

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Published March 1, 2022 at 5:01 pm

Although they will ease some visiting restrictions, Burlington’s Joseph Brant Hospital will continue its mandatory COVID-19 vaccine policy.

Beginning today, JBH will allow more access to patients by essential care partners (ECP), however they will still need to be vaccinated with very limited exceptions.

“Joseph Brant Hospital recognizes the need to continue protecting the health and safety of its patients and healthcare workers as the province of Ontario enters into the next phase of its re-opening plan,” said a hospital spokesperson.

“While the opportunity to enter public spaces such as restaurants or sports venues is a welcome change, COVID-19 remains transmissible to vulnerable individuals receiving care in healthcare settings.”

Understanding the important role they play in a patient’s care, wellness and recovery, JBH has made the following changes to its ECP policy:

  • Ambulatory care: One ECP may attend with a patient.
  • Emergency care: The patient may identify up to two ECPs. Only one can be at patient’s side at any time.
  • In-patient care: Two ECPs are allowed at the bedside at the same time.
  • Person in labour: Two ECPs are permitted including a doula, if applicable.
  • In-patient end of life: Patients expected to pass within 72 hours are permitted up to four one-time, two-hour visits. Additional ECPs are permitted above those originally identified. Only two ECPs may be at the bedside at a time.
  • Patients under 18 years of age: Two parents/legal guardians are permitted to accompany the patient or attend the bedside at the same time.

All ECPs must complete a COVID-19 screening before coming to the hospital. Those who fail screening due to vaccination status will not be permitted entry with very limited exceptions. Existing personal protective equipment (PPE) policies, including masking, also remain in effect.

“As we gradually plan for the resumption of surgical care in the coming months, we will continue to place the highest priority on the safety of our patients and healthcare workers, who have worked tirelessly throughout the pandemic,” said Eric Vandewall, JBH’s president and CEO.

“We look forward to seeing a further downward trend in the numbers of COVID-19 cases in our community, and will continue to re-evaluate our policies accordingly, with input from our patients, their families and our staff. We appreciate the understanding of our community.”

Wherever possible, patients are encouraged to connect with their loved ones by email, telephone or by video. To help keep them connected free, in-room phone and Wi-Fi are available.

For more information about the ECP/visitor policy, visit JBH’s website.

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