There have no reported COVID-19 confirmed virus positive patients at Elliot Lake's St. Joseph's General.Hospital (ELSJGH) to date and hospital staff and administration want to keep it that way
With that in mind, hospital CEO Pierre Ozolins has issued a statement outlining newly imposed visitor restrictions.
"Effective Friday, December 18, 2020, St. Joseph’s General Hospital Elliot Lake is limiting visitation to only individuals who reside within the Algoma and Sudbury Districts," Ozolins said.
"Individuals who reside outside of the Algoma and Sudbury Districts or who have had close contact with someone from outside of the Algoma or Sudbury area will not be permitted to visit," Ozolins added.
"Visiting is permitted once a day between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. or 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. Exceptions will only be made for compassionate reasons."
Ozolins also outlined the other measures in place, which include:
- Visitors will be screened to ensure they have no signs and symptoms of COVID-19. Those who are unwell will not be permitted entry
- Visitors will be required to provide identification and proof of residence such as a license or photo ID with a utility bill showing one’s address
- Visitors must properly wear a mask for the entire visit and must wash their hands frequently
- Visitors must wear the screening sticker to indicate they are an approved visitor
- Visitors must follow safety precautions directed by screeners and the care team
- Visitors must go directly to and from the unit they are visiting. Do not visit anyone else
- Do not bring food, drinks, pets or non-essential items to the visit
- Visitors who do not follow guidelines will be asked to leave the hospital
"During this time, we encourage the use of our Virtual Connections Program to have virtual visits with your loved ones," Ozolins said. "Requests can be made by contacting the Nursing Units in the hospital to book a visit."
"The safety of our patients and staff in the Hospital is our priority and we continue to work hard to find a balance between family and visitor presence and protection from COVID-19."