Frequently Asked Questions

 

How do I practice physical or social distancing?

  • Keep at least two metres away from others. The two-metre rule is important because it’s the maximum distance that droplets from a person’s cough or sneeze can travel, which is one of the ways that COVID-19 is spread.
  • Avoid non-essential trips in the community.
  • Limit, postpone or cancel gatherings.
  • Work from home and conduct meetings online.
  • Keep kids away from group settings.

I am worried about my symptoms, what should I do?

Do I have to wear a mask when I come to the hospital?

  • No. Everyone entering the hospital will be screened for signs and symptoms of illness. If special circumstances allow you to enter, and a mask is necessary, you will be provided this by the screeners.

How long does screening take when I arrive at the hospital? How much extra time should I give myself?

  • It depends. During busy times, there may be a line up. Please practice social distancing by keeping two metres away from others. The screening process should be less than a minute. Give yourself about 10 minutes extra time.

How are social distancing rules being applied when patients and visitors are waiting in line to be screened?

  • LHSC has placed marks on the floor to show the two-metre distance in the screening areas, and posters are up to remind everyone to keep this space. Please be aware of the people around you and keep your distance. You have the right to respectfully remind others if they come too close.

What steps is LHSC taking to help with social distancing in public spaces at the hospital, such as the cafeteria?

  • Several steps are being taken or are being developed to increase social distancing at LHSC, including

I have an upcoming appointment/procedure scheduled. Has it been canceled?

  • It is important for the hospital to ensure we are ready to support patients who have or may have been affected by COVID-19; while also continuing to care for the critically ill and injured. This has required limiting non-urgent and elective surgeries and outpatient clinics to be cancelled. Any patient whose appointment or procedure is impacted by these reductions will receive direct communication from their physician or health-care team to discuss their ongoing care plan.

I’m a patient at the hospital and have a question about my care. Who can I contact? 

  • Patients are encouraged to contact their physician’s office or health-care team directly for questions about their ongoing care plan.

I am pregnant. Is it safe to come to the hospital?

  • We are working to keep all patients safe as they arrive for care at LHSC.  You will be health screened at the door. We encourage all pregnant patients to contact their health-care providers before attending appointments to confirm.   

What restaurants, pharmacies and shops remain open at the hospitals? 

  • Faye’s Café at Victoria Hospital and third floor cafeteria at University Hospital remain open 24/7. 
  • Tim Hortons in LRCP (7:30 am – 3:30 pm) and North Tower B2 (8:00 am – 3:00 pm) at VH are open.
  • Retail pharmacies are currently open. Debit and credit is the preferred method of payment at this time. The pharmacies are limiting prescription filling to a 30-day supply. The pharmacy may not be able to fill all prescriptions, depending on whether the medication is needed for the outbreak (e.g. salbutamol (Ventolin ®, Teva® brands) inhalers). Patients are encouraged to go to other community pharmacies as needed. Prescriptions can be transferred to local pharmacies.   
  • All gift shops are closed until further notice.

I need to contact Patient Relations. How do I reach them?