Masking Requirements Increase at SMH
[New Tecumseth, ON – November 24, 2023] – Effective Monday, November 27, 2023 Stevenson Memorial Hospital (SMH) is increasing masking requirements at the hospital. Wearing a hospital-provided medical mask will be required in all areas of the hospital, including hallways and common spaces.
The change to their masking protocol comes as the number of COVID-19 cases increases in the region, including outbreaks at health care facilities, long-term care facilities and retirement homes.
“SMH is a mask-friendly, inclusive environment that keeps the safety of all individuals at the hospital a top priority,” says Julia Mullen, VP Clinical Services & CNE, SMH. “This is an effort to keep our vulnerable patients safe, as well as our staff, while reducing transmission within our facility and preserving our operational capacity.”
Visitors continue to be required to wear medical-grade masks (no cloth masks) upon entry to the hospital, which will be provided. Visitors must wash their hands before entering and after leaving a patient’s room. Any visitors experiencing COVID-19 symptoms or are a high-risk contact of a confirmed case are asked not to enter the hospital. Hospitalized patients are often immunocompromised and it is important that visitors are diligent in protecting their own family and friends as well as the other neighbouring patients.
Visitors will not be permitted for any COVID-19 positive/suspected patients. Family members of patients can contact the Patient Experience Department to book a time to speak with their loved one through technology such as iPads or tablets. Please call ext. 2310 or email patientexperience@smhosp.on.ca to arrange a virtual visit.
