Visitor restrictions reinstated at RVH due to COVID-19 outbreak

December 31, 2021

Due to confirmed COVID cases, as well as the rise in the number of COVID cases in our community, visiting has been cancelled at RVH until further notice.

General visitors will not be permitted, however, one designated essential caregiver/care partner per patient for the duration of their stay will still be allowed. There may be additional exceptions in the following circumstances:
• visiting patients at end of life
• support for patients in the emergency department if required
• parents of children under the age of 12
• those who are essential to accompany patients to appointments or participate in the delivery of care
• other critical or urgent circumstances requiring family presence.

All designated caregivers/care partners must be fully vaccinated unless they meet an exception criterion, and must pass COVID-19 screening prior to entering the hospital.

This revised policy is guided by the safety of patients, staff and physicians based on scientific evidence, is in line with current regional recommendations, and has the support of our health care partners including the Renfrew County District Health Unit (RCDHU).

“We understand that this is stressful, but ask for patience and cooperation. As the situation continues to evolve very rapidly, we continue to respond as best possible to keep our patients, their families, staff and physicians safe, and to prevent the spread of the virus in our hospital,” says Julia Boudreau, RVH CEO.

Visiting policy is subject to further change based on public health guidance. Support of the guidance is critical, as is getting the vaccine if you are eligible (clinics take place every Tuesday and Thursday from 9 am to 3:30 pm in Renfrew at Ma-Te-Way Activity Centre).

“We need the public’s support—continuing to wear masks, social distancing, and following the Public Health guidance that was issued on December 30 with regard to testing and isolation,” states Dr. Steve Radke, RVH Chief of Staff.

Please note that Emergency Department services continue as normal and those who require emergent/urgent care should continue to seek it.

However, under new guidance from the Ontario Ministry of Health, the public is asked not to visit the ED for the purpose of COVID-19 PCR testing unless you are symptomatic, underhoused/homeless, are First Nation, Inuit or Metis, or an individual travelling into these communities for work.

If you have a positive Rapid Antigen Test or are symptomatic and don’t fall into one of the above categories, the MOH asks that you isolate with your household immediately for five days from onset of symptoms if you are fully vaccinated or 10 days if you are not fully vaccinated and inform your close contacts.

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For more information, please contact:
Julia Boudreau, CEO,
Renfrew Victoria Hospital & St. Francis Memorial Hospital
613-432-4851, ext. 260