Shared Health says that changes are coming to how Manitobans visit healthcare facilities as public health orders loosen.
"Access will expand in phases beginning this week, though the timing of these changes may vary by health region and individual facility," Shared Health says in a press release. "The decision to expand visitation reflects recent changes to public health orders and takes into consideration current COVID-19 hospitalization rates and the number of active outbreaks at healthcare facilities."
As of last week, there were five outbreaks declared at healthcare facilities in the province on Feb. 16, while another six were declared over. Hospitalization rates have also been trending down over the past couple of weeks.
Visitors will have to make appointments for general visitation at long-term care facilities and should occur during visiting hours (which may vary) at acute care facilities. Families and loved ones are encouraged to call ahead before they visit the health agency says.
Shared Health also says that access to healthcare facilities may vary from changes to public health orders due to the increased vulnerability of residents and patients to the most severe effects of the virus.
Medical masks will still be required in all healthcare facilities and will be provided before entry. Visitors will also still need to pass screening requirements and are asked to follow any additional directions from facility staff.
Phase One expanded visitor access will permit:
- Fully vaccinated general (social) visitors to long-term care and acute care facilities. Proof of vaccination and photo identification will be required.
- Visitors who are not fully vaccinated or who do not wish to provide proof of their vaccination status may visit in designated visitor shelters and spaces (long-term care only).
- In emergency departments and urgent care centres and for outpatient appointments, patients may identify one fully vaccinated essential care partner to accompany them. Access is subject to the ability to maintain physical distancing from all other patients and essential care partners. Proof of vaccination and photo identification will be required.