Masking Requirements Increase at SMH
[New Tecumseth, ON – October 23, 2024] – Stevenson Memorial Hospital (SMH) is increasing masking requirements at the hospital. Wearing a hospital-provided medical mask will be required in all clinical areas of the hospital for staff, patients, visitors and volunteers. Masks are not required in common areas such as hallways and stairwells.
The change to their masking protocol comes as the number of COVID-19 cases and other respiratory illnesses are increasing in the region and community.
“SMH is a mask-friendly, inclusive environment that keeps the safety of all individuals at the hospital a top priority,” says Susan Woollard, Interim VP Clinical Services and CNE, SMH. “This is an important step to keep our vulnerable patients safe, as well as our staff, while reducing transmission within our facility during this viral season.”
The following protocols are required for visitors:
- Visitors are required to wear hospital-provided medical masks while in a patient room.
- Eating and/or drinking is not permitted by visitors in a patient room.
- Visitors must wash their hands or sanitize before entering and after leaving a patient’s room.
The hospital asks that anyone with symptoms of respiratory illness or are a high-risk contact of someone with a confirmed case not to enter the hospital to visit a patient. SMH appreciates the understanding and cooperation of the community at this time. Any updates to the masking or visitor policy will be shared once available at www.stevensonhospital.ca
