This page is updated regularly. Check back for updates.
The 2019 coronavirus (COVID-19) causes a respiratory infection and spreads mainly from person to person. Those with a weakened immune system are more at risk, which may be the case for older people and those with chronic diseases. The World Health Organization has characterized COVID-19 as a pandemic. We are taking precautions at HWMH to ensure the safety of our staff, patients, and community. Updates will be shared frequently to ensure everyone has the information required to remain safe.
LINKS
- The World Health Organisation, WHO
- The Public Health Agency of Canada
- Public Health Ontario
- Haldimand Norfolk Health and Social Services
As essential workers, we are here for you!
The safety of our residents, patients, staff, physicians and our community remains our top priority. We care deeply about our community’s wellbeing and these processes are in place to help protect everyone.
The hospital and Edgewater continue to adapt to our new reality. COVID 19 has changed many things for us but one thing remains consistent. We are here for you when you need us.
Here are highlights of some of the COVID 19 changes. (please note that process are frequently reviewed and adjusted when appropriate or required)
- Visiting is restricted. If you have questions, please contact us. There are different restrictions for different areas. It is best to check directly with your care team regarding your unique situation.
- We screen you as you come through our doors. Our staff and physicians are screened too.
- We wear masks and we ask you to wear one too. In some areas, you will see additional levels of personal protective equipment (PPE). The PPE that staff/physicians wear, varies based on the situation.
- Our testing centre at 420 Lock Street West is open Mondays and Wednesdays. 9:00-11:00am & 12:00-2:00pm. No appointment is necessary, however individuals are encouraged to book an appointment with public health by calling 519-426-6170 ext. 9999 or online at https://hnhu.org/
- Our waiting areas look different- we want to limit the number of people you come into contact with.
- Our clinics and outpatient visits are reduced, we continue to provide virtual care when possible.
- Our specimen collection centre requires you to book an appointment. Please call 905-774-7431 extension 1293 to book an appointment if you need bloodwork.
- Volunteers remain on hold. We are missing their contributions immensely!
- Some health professional students will start their placements on site in September.
A special thank you to each of you for doing your part to keep our community safe.
Together we are stronger!
If you have questions, please reach out to us.
Sharon Moore
Interim President and Chief Executive Officer
Haldimand War Memorial Hospital and Edgewater Gardens
IMPORTANT NOTICE
HWMH is continuing to restrict visitors to the hospital.
In the Emergency Department and for clinic appointments, patients should come alone. One care partner per patient per day is allowed in extenuating circumstances to help with the patient’s care. For example, if there are care issues related to language barriers or cognitive barriers. For more information, please check with your care team as individual circumstances can vary.
The inpatient unit has restricted visiting hours and the visits must be pre-booked by calling 905-774-7431 x 1245 .
The hospital is asking people who have mild or moderate flu-like symptoms to NOT come to the Emergency Department, but instead call the Haldimand-Norfolk Public Health Unit at 519-426-6170 ext 3205 and after hours 1-877-298-5888 or Telehealth Ontario at 1-866-797-0000. Those with serious symptoms should immediately call 911.
Members of the community who need to visit the Emergency Department for other urgent situations are asked to come unaccompanied by others, unless there is an exceptional circumstance – such as a child needing to come in with a parent, or a person unable to enter the department on his/her own.
For the latest updates on the effects of COVID-19 on the operations of the hospital and Edgewater Gardens, visit the Haldimand War Memorial Hospital Facebook page or website hwmh.ca.
What to do if you’re feeling unwell
If you think you may have symptoms of COVID-19, use this self-assessment tool (link to https://www.ontario.ca/page/2019-novel-coronavirus-covid-19-self-assessment) to determine next steps.
If you are having difficulty breathing or experiencing other severe symptoms, call 911 immediately. Advise them of your symptoms and travel history.
Screening
We are proactively screening patients. What does that mean for you? Upon registration, staff will ask patients about travel and symptoms, particularly respiratory symptoms, and contact with others. If you meet the current case-definition (a combination of symptoms, contact, and/or travel) for COVID-19 staff will begin a special infection-control protocol.
Protect Yourself
To help prevent the spread of all types of respiratory illnesses, including influenza, we recommend:
• wash your hands often with soap and water;
• avoid close contact with people who are sick;
• cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze; if you don’t have a tissue, sneeze or cough into your sleeve or arm;
• avoid touching your face, eyes and mouth to prevent illness;
• clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces; and,
• get the flu shot, if you haven’t already done so.
