Grey Bruce Health Services (GBHS) is permitting essential visitors only, identified as Care Partners, at all hospitals beginning today, April 15.

In the announcement from GBHS, essential visitors will be permitted for pediatric patients, people giving birth, and patients at end of life. These Care Partners must wear a hospital-supplied mask throughout their visit, which will be given to them upon entry to hospital.

GBHS is offering patients and their loved ones free access to virtual visits. Learn more and book at www.gbhs.on.ca/patients-visitors.

Specific policies for each patient category is detailed below.

Outpatients: Outpatients must come to their appointments alone unless the Care Team determines a Care Partner is essential.

Inpatients: No visitors are permitted.

Emergency Department: ER patients must come alone unless the Clinical team determines a Care Partner is essential.

Obstetrics, Labour & Delivery: Patients are permitted to have one designated Care Partner with them for their assessment and throughout their stay. There will be no in and out or switching privileges.

Pediatric (Under 16 years old) Outpatients: One parent or guardian may be present

Pediatric (Under 16 years old) Inpatients: Two visitors (parent and/or guardian) may be present, but not at the same time.

End of Life: Patients who are imminently dying may have two Care Partners visiting at a time.