COVID-19: Update for parents/caregivers

COVID-19 is affecting us all is significant ways and the pandemic situation is changing rapidly. But you can always count on CHEO to be here when you need us — we are on your side.

At CHEO, our exemplary staff and medical staff are following the most current infection prevention and control precautions. We are doing everything we can to ensure everyone’s safety while being cared for at CHEO.

And that care includes parents and caregivers as important members of the care team. As part of the team and keeping everyone safe, these are the things you need to know and can expect when coming to CHEO:

Screening is in place

Please enter CHEO using the Main Entrance at 401 Smyth Road. All other doors are locked, with the exception of the Emergency Department, which never closes. You can expect our staff to greet you, ask some questions related to COVID-19 symptoms and take your temperature. We are screening all of our staff and medical staff, too.

Only one parent or caregiver with a child at any time

To reduce the risk of infection, we are limiting the number of people in the building; including non-essential staff. Before coming to CHEO, please know that only one person can accompany children to the Emergency Department, an urgent appointment or surgery. Up to two people can be registered with a child or youth who is staying overnight, but only one can be onsite at a time – including overnight.

Siblings are not permitted

We appreciate that this requires you to arrange for the care of siblings and that it can be hard for brothers and sisters not to see each other when one is in hospital. We are so thankful for your support in making the necessary arrangements.

Free coffee and tea

Coffee and tea are available to all parents, caregivers and staff during the pandemic until further notice. We know this is a stressful time and this is one small way we can try to lift your spirits.

Free parking

Effective Saturday, March 28 at 6:00 am, the parking gates will be lifted so there is no charge for parking (no charge for essential staff and physicians either). We appreciate some people may prefer to avoid public transportation in support of physical distancing, so this is another way we can support you during this extraordinary time. This is temporary and in effect until further notice, as we rely on parking revenues to pay for new equipment, programs and world-class research.

KidCare Pharmacy offers delivery and drive-thru services

CHEO’s KidCare Pharmacy now delivers prescription packages to inpatient nursing stations and the Emergency Department, as well as to customers outside the Main Entrance. For details, please visit the COVID-19 page on our website.

Amenities

While some of our amenities and accommodations are closed due to COVID-19, many continue to be available, including free Wi-Fi, showers, a multi-faith prayer room and more.  Please bookmark this webpage, as we keep this information current.

For the most up-to-date information about CHEO’s evolving response to COVID-19 and answers to frequently asked questions, please visit our website. You can also reach us by phone at 613-737-7600, ext. 6720.

Thank you for your support and understanding during this extraordinary time.