To ensure the safest possible environment for its patients to receive care, proof of full COVID-19 vaccination will be required for all individuals seeking to visit a patient at Markham Stouffville Hospital.
Proof of full COVID-19 vaccination will be required for all visitors. Effective November 15 to enter the hospital all visitors will need: to successfully complete symptom screening; show proof of full COVID-19 vaccination (two doses plus 14 days after their second dose); and personal identification.
Exceptions to the proof of vaccination requirement: those ineligible for receiving a COVID-19 vaccine (i.e., under 12 years old); labouring patient: one support person; NICU and Paediatric patients: one guardian/parent; imminent end of life: case by case basis; those experiencing critical illness that is at risk for deterioration: case by case basis.
All visitors coming to the hospital will be screened and registered at the front entrance. They will be asked to wear a mask at all times when in the hospital, including in the patient/bed area, and to clean their hands well and frequently while at the hospital.
They must stay with the patient they are visiting at all times. Visitors are not permitted to eat or drink in the hospital in patient rooms as masks must remain on. Designated areas for eating are the Tim Hortons on the main level and Ronald McDonald House (if open).
At this time, members of the public who do not have formal business at the hospital but who wish to use the hospital’s facilities or food vendors will not be allowed inside the building.
No in-person visits are permitted for patients admitted with or under investigation for COVID-19, with the exception of patients at end-of-life.
Visits will be further restricted if there is an outbreak in the hospital. Visiting hours are 1 p.m. to 7 p.m., seven days a week.
