As pandemic conditions improve, patients at Chatham-Kent’s hospital are now being allowed more essential care partners.
The Chatham-Kent Health Alliance said starting Tuesday, the hospital will allow up to six consistent essential care partners. Two care partners at a time will be allowed at the bedside during visiting hours.
An essential care partner is someone who is considered essential to the well-being of a patient while they are in the hospital.
Exceptions to the policy include inpatients at imminent risk of dying, who will be able to identify family members/people of importance and have four present at any time.
As well, patients in the Emergency Department will only be permitted one care partner once a bed has been assigned. Patients in the Rapid Assessment Zone are excluded.
Visitors and care partners attending the Chatham and Wallaceburg sites of the CKHA must show proof of full COVID-19 vaccination or a negative PCR/rapid antigen test taken within three days of the visit. Care partners must also pass COVID-19 screening and wear a medical-grade mask at all times during their visit.