New visiting restrictions at MUHC hospitals

Starting Tuesday, October 6th at 9 a.m.

Due to the change in Montreal’s status from a COVID orange to red zone, the MUHC’s Family Presence and Visiting Policy has been adapted, following guidelines from the Quebec Ministry of Health. 

These changes have been carefully considered in order to ensure the safety and security of our patients, visitors and staff while still providing family presence at the bedside. They are temporary measures that will be reviewed on October 28th, in accordance with further Ministry of Health directives. In case of an outbreak, these measures may be adjusted.

Visiting hours remain unchanged: 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., seven days a week. As of Tuesday, October 6th at 9 a.m., the following restrictions will be in place:

Note: Designated family members/caregivers are determined by the patient and the care team and are carefully screened at each visit. Infection control guidelines are provided to all designated family members/caregivers to ensure compliance with safety protocols.

Adult hospitals

• Hospitalized patients :
  • Patients can select two designated family members/caregivers
    • Exception: One designated parent or dedicated person for delivery and post-partum patients 
  • Only one designated family members/caregivers can visit per day 
    • Exception: Two designated family members/caregivers can be present at the same time for end-of-life patients 
• Patients coming for a visit to a clinic, a test or a treatment
  • One family member/caregiver can accompany a patient in the following situations:
    • Patient’s first appointment;
    • Patient requires help to get around;
    • Patient needs someone to translate;
    • Patient requires help understanding information given at the appointment;
    • Patient arrives with the help of a specialized transportation service;
    • Patient is coming from a health center;
    • We have requested that the patient be accompanied.

• Patients coming to the Emergency Department
  • ED staff will determine if the person accompanying the patient can stay
• Pregnant women
  • Cannot be accompanied to pregnancy appointments

Montreal Children's Hospital

• Hospitalized children
  • Two parents/caregivers may stay with their hospitalised child; siblings are no longer permitted
• Children coming for a visit to the Emergency Department, a clinic, a test or a treatment
  • One parent or one caregiver can accompany the child

Camille-Lefebvre Pavilion (CHSLD)

• Two designated caregivers can visit a resident per day; only one at a time

We know that having a loved one in hospital can be very emotional and that the current constraints are difficult for families. As we continue to experience these stressful times together and do everything to ensure our patients receive the best care possible, we ask all families to work with us in a spirit of mutual respect and understanding. 

Thank you for your continued collaboration and cooperation.

For more information visit the Family Presence and Visiting Guidelines webpage (muhc.ca/visit).