September 16, 2020
EDMONTON – Alberta Health Services (AHS) has developed an online tool that allows designated family/support persons and other visitors to request scheduled visits with their loved one in continuing care sites operated by AHS, Capital Care, Carewest and Covenant Health online.
Albertans who would like to schedule a visit at participating continuing care sites can visit AHS.ca/ccvisit.
“During the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s important that we keep continuing care residents and staff healthy and safe, while also supporting visitation with loved ones and support persons,” says Minister of Health Tyler Shandro. “Online tools have played a key role in keeping Albertans safe during COVID-19, and this is an example of that.”
This new online tool is part of the updated visitation process outlined in Chief Medical Officer of Health (CMOH) Order 29-2020. This Order supports the designation of up to two family/support persons per resident for indoor visits, allows other visitors in extenuating circumstances (e.g. end of life), and outdoor visits with up to five individuals including the resident. In-person visits and virtual or telephone visits that require staff support must be arranged ahead of time with staff/site leaders.
“Visits with loved ones and support persons are a crucial part of the care we provide. Scheduling visits with residents ensures we can support regular visits while minimizing the risk of transmission to residents and staff,” says AHS President and CEO Dr. Verna Yiu. “It’s important that continuing care residents stay emotionally and socially connected to their loved ones.”
Albertans who would like to request a visit at participating continuing care sites can go to AHS.ca/ccvisit and locate the facility they wish to visit and complete the online request form, including the date and time of the visit. If for some reason your request cannot be accommodated, you will receive an email directing you to request a visit for another date or time.
Site participation is voluntary, recognizing that some locations have effective request/booking systems already in place. Participating locations will have a link to the online booking request tool. All other sites will have their contact information available on the page and Albertans can request a visit by phone.
This booking tool is being launched in phases at various locations across the province over the next week. Please go to AHS.ca/ccvisit for the most up-to-date information on which sites are currently accepting online bookings.
Alberta Health Services is the provincial health authority responsible for planning and delivering health supports and services for more than four million adults and children living in Alberta. Its mission is to provide a patient-focused, quality health system that is accessible and sustainable for all Albertans.
