Health Sciences North is asking all patients and visitors coming to the hospital to wear a mask as an added step to reduce the spread of germs and protect vulnerable patients.
Handmade masks are acceptable, as are those available at retailers in the community. Patients will still be seen in the Emergency Department, regardless if they are wearing a mask.
Masks serve as an added step to protect others from your germs when physical distancing is challenging or not possible, such as getting into an elevator. A mask is not a replacement for handwashing or social distancing.
Patients coming to the hospital should continue to practice safe social distancing, wherever possible, and regular handwashing, especially when entering and exiting the building.
Visitor restrictions remain in effect at HSN during the pandemic. Only essential visitors are permitted at the hospital until further notice. The definition of an “essential visitor” has been updated.
Patients with communication, physical or cognitive impairments or those experiencing mental health crisis preventing the appropriate provision of care are allowed one consistent visitor. A child or youth is allowed one approved parent or guardian visitor.
Patients having emergency, unscheduled surgery are allowed one visitor for one visit only. Patients giving birth are allowed one consistent visitor. Patients at risk of imminent death are allowed two consistent visitors.
Health Sciences North is reminding the public that the Emergency Department continues to be a safe place to come for urgent and emergency care, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
For non-urgent needs, family physician offices continue to remain open during the pandemic. Family doctors continue to see a majority of patients by using virtual technology or the telephone.
Patients can’t just show up to see their doctor. Instead, they can simply call ahead to make an appointment.
