Visiting a Patient

Visiting Hours

Visiting hours are 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. throughout the hospital and 2:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. on the In-Patient Mental Health Unit. Individuals visiting the In-Patient Mental Health Unit must be 14 years or older. Exceptions will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

Visiting After Hours

For care partners supporting patients outside of typical visiting hours (before 8:00 a.m. or after 8:00 p.m.), please enter through the Emergency Department and speak to a security guard. The security guard will ask for the name of the patient and will call the unit.

Visiting Restrictions May Apply

The safety of our patients, visitors, and staff is our top priority. From time to time, visitor restrictions may be put in place due to infection prevention and control needs—either within the hospital or in response to broader community health concerns.

These temporary measures help us reduce the risk of infection and protect vulnerable individuals in our care. We understand how important it is to stay connected with loved ones, and we will always do our best to support safe and meaningful visits whenever possible.

Before visiting, we encourage you to check Chatham-Kent Health Alliance’s website for the latest updates or speak with the patient’s care team for current guidelines. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation in keeping our hospital community safe.

There are currently no visitor restrictions.

Hotels & Accommodations

The following hotels offer special rates to patients and families of Chatham-Kent Health Alliance:

• Holiday Inn Express (575 Richmond Street, Chatham):  Reservations can be arranged by phoning 519.351.1100
• Comfort Inn 110 Richmond Street, Chatham): Reservations can be arranged by phoning 519.352.5500

Care Partners

Care partners are distinct from casual visitors and may be family, close friends or other support people who provide critical and often ongoing personal, social, psychological and physical support to a patient. CKHA recognizes that care partners can improve the safety, care and well-being of our patients. Please work with your care team to identify your care partner(s) and how you would like your care partner(s) to be involved in your care.

Visitor appeals can be directed to the primary nurse and/or the Patient Relations office by telephone: 519.352.6400 x 6814 or email: patientrelations@ckha.on.ca.

Outdoor Visiting at CKHA – Chatham and Wallaceburg Sites

Chatham Site – Riverside Courtyard 

Wallaceburg Site – Riverside Pavilion 

CKHA is pleased to offer outdoor visiting, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. 7 days a week (weather permitting), for eligible inpatients on the Medicine Unit. A grassy area on the south side of the hospital along McCleary Line has been designated as the outdoor visiting space and is now called the Riverside Pavilion.  This space is designed with the appropriate furniture and shade to allow for comfort. The care team in collaboration with the patient and care partner(s) will determine if the patient is safe to participate in outdoor visits. 

Pet Visitors

Visitation with family pets (cats or dogs) is a recognized therapy that enhances and promotes patients’ recovery process. For the safety, health and comfort of all patients, CKHA’s policy requires management approval, advance notice, proof of up-to-date immunization, and pet hygiene guidelines. Please speak with a member of your care team if you would like to arrange a visit with your pet.