Chatham-Kent Health Alliance Updates Visitor Policy

CHATHAM-KENT: June 14, 2022 – Chatham-Kent Health Alliance (CKHA) is pleased update its visitor policy to now allow additional care partners for most inpatients.

Effective June 14, 2022 at 12:01 a.m., CKHA’s Care Partner and Visitor Policy Phase 3 “Green” will allow up to six consistent essential care partners with two present at the bedside during visiting hours.  Highlights of Phase 3 “Green” of CKHA’s Visitors and Care Partner Access During COVID-19 Policy also include but are not limited to:   

• An inpatient who is at imminent risk of dying may identify family members/people of importance, with four present at any time.   

• In the Emergency Department (ED), an ED patient may be permitted one care partner once a bed has been assigned. This excludes patients in the Rapid Assessment Zone (RAZ).

Outdoor visiting remains available from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. 7 days a week (weather permitting), for eligible patients on all inpatient units at both the Chatham and Wallaceburg sites.  Patients and care partners who wish to learn more may contact the Patient & Family Communication Liaison Office by telephone: 519.352.6400 x 6917 or by email: PFCL@ckha.on.ca.  Availability is subject to spacing and seating.

As is the current practice, visitors and care partners entering both the Chatham and Wallaceburg sites are required to provide proof of full COVID-19 vaccination and/or a negative PCR (polymerase chain reaction) or rapid antigen test taken within three days of the visit, with limited exceptions.  

Care partners must pass screening and wear a medical grade mask at all times during their visit. With the provincial masking directive now expired, CKHA’s masking policy remains in place; this means everyone who enters CKHA’s hospital sites will still be required to wear a medical grade mask.  This is consistent with recent guidance issued by Public Health Ontario.

For full details of CKHA’s Visitors and Care Partner Access During COVID-19 Policy please consult the hospital’s website www.ckha.on.ca or contact CKHA’s Patient Family Communications Liaisons for specific information when visiting at 519.352.6400, ext. 6917.