Visitors to Southlake Regional Health Centre will still be required to show proof of vaccination against COVID-19 despite a change in provincial guidelines today.
While the province has stopped requiring vaccine QR codes at many places, including gyms, restaurants and theatres, effective March 1, the hospital is keeping its vaccine policy in place for all visitors.
"Keeping our patients and staff safe is our top priority. At this time, Southlake will maintain our vaccination policy for visitors and designated care partners," it said in a social media post.
As of Feb. 14, the hospital is allowing fully vaccinated visitors for patients whose stays exceed five days. Patients in the hospital for less than five days will not be allowed to have any visitors, with exceptions being end of life, labour and delivery, pediatric patients, and designated care partners. Patients in the emergency department will be allowed one visitor at the discretion of staff.
Anyone coming to visit a patient will have to show their official QR proving they are fully vaccinated, along with identification during the screening process.
"Vaccination dramatically reduces the likelihood of severe disease, hospitalization and death. The team at Southlake continues to strongly encourage anyone who hasn’t been vaccinated yet to do so right away," the hospital said.
Anyone wanting to visit a patient will have to book a visiting time by calling 905-895-4521, ext. 2728. You must be at least 18 years old and follow protocol like wearing a hospital-issued mask at all times, going straight to and from the unit you're visiting, and cannot go in and out during the visit.
