Pictured is the entrance to the Southampton Hospital, one of six hospitals that are part of Grey Bruce Health Services where the new vaccination policy will take effect on November 15. The other five hospitals are located in Lion's Head, Markdale, Meaford, Wiarton and Owen Sound.

Grey Bruce Health Services (GBHS) will soon join hospitals across the province in requiring visitors to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19.

In a November 9 media release, as of Monday, November 15, 2021, all care partners, visitors, and anyone accompanying a patient to hospital will be required to show proof of full COVID-19 vaccination or approved medical exemption to enter any GBHS facility.

This policy does not apply to patients, the release said, and said exceptions will be granted if the patient is a child, is at the end of life, is in labour or has accessibility needs.

A paper or digital copy of an Ontario Ministry of Health vaccination receipt or the Ontario Enhanced Vaccine Certificate will be accepted, along with one piece of government issued photo identification must also be provided. Full vaccination is achieved 14 days after the second dose of COVID-19 vaccine.

"Care Partners are important to the health and well being of our patients, and our Patient Relations department is available to support patients and Care Partners in these circumstances," read the release, adding that screening and other protocols remain in place to ensure a safe hospital experience.