(Strathroy, ON) – The Middlesex Hospital Alliance’s (MHA) top priority is keeping our patients, families, caregivers, staff and physicians safe during the COVID-19 pandemic.
To help keep the individuals we support and our staff safe, MHA is implementing an updated Essential Care Partner Framework Policy effective November 8, 2021. The policy requires that any visitor including family and essential care partners must provide government issued photo identification and proof of full vaccination before entering either of our MHA Sites. (Strathroy Middlesex General Hospital and Four Counties Health Services). Acceptable proof of vaccination is the Ontario Ministry of Health Vaccination Receipt or Ontario Enhanced Vaccine Certificate provided by the Ministry of Health (in paper or electronic form). Full vaccination is achieved 14 days after the second dose. Family and essential care partners who have a valid medical exemption, signed by a doctor or nurse practitioner will be required to show their documentation.
Our primary responsibility is to those needing care in our hospitals, and for our staff to provide as safe an environment as possible. Requiring full vaccination against COVID-19 is an additional layer of protection and is consistent with vaccine requirements in other healthcare settings, including our regional hospital partners.
MHA recognizes the importance of family and essential care partner presence for the health and wellbeing of our patients. Clinical exceptions that would permit the presence of non-vaccinated family and essential care partner(s) will apply for:
- patients who are children or infants,
- palliative patients
- patients experiencing an unpredictable or urgent circumstance, including end of life, a mental health crisis or childbirth
Clinical exceptions will also apply to those patients who require support due to a cognitive impairment, developmental or intellectual disability or language barrier. Exceptions will require approval of the area manager or manager on call (if after hours) in consultation with infection prevention and control.
We appreciate the communities support and understanding as these preventative measures are making a real difference in the volume of infections, and those who require hospitalization in our community.
Please see our website for additional details on our policy: www.mhalliance.on.ca
| For local inquiries: Middlesex Hospital Alliance Julie McBrien Vice President Clinical Services & Chief Nursing Officer Julie.McBrien@mha.tvh.ca www.mhalliance.on.ca |