Updates on the Enhanced Masking Directive.
Two Hills Health Centre discontinuing enhanced masking directive
TWO HILLS – Following a decline in COVID-19 activity at the site, the Two Hills Health Centre is discontinuing Alberta Health Services’ (AHS) Use of Masks to Prevent Transmission of COVID-19 Directive.
The enhanced masking directive was implemented at the site on Nov. 17 in response to COVID-19 cases and outbreaks impacting the facility. Since that time, new case numbers have slowed, and test positivity rates have decreased.
Based on the local risk assessment, the site will end enhanced masking requirements at this time.
The site will continue to follow routine IPC and outbreak management precautions.
AHS staff, physicians, volunteers, contracted service providers, and Alberta Precision Laboratories workers are no longer required to mask while in patient-facing areas at Ponoka Hospital and Care Centre. Masking is also no longer required in common areas like hallways, the cafeteria, or the gift shop.
Ongoing monitoring of COVID-19 activity and its impact on the site continues to be monitored. The site remains ready to re-introduce enhanced measures again should the need arise.
The enhanced masking directive remains in place at:
This includes continuing care sites that are co-located in the identified sites.
Masking is just one strategy out of a package of preventive measures. As always, all staff are encouraged to mask, stay home when ill and, to continue to practice diligent hand hygiene as part of ongoing efforts to keep patients, families and each other safe and healthy. For more information and specific guidance, please refer to the Masking FAQ.
Tofield Health Centre discontinuing enhanced masking directive
TOFIELD – Following a decline in COVID-19 activity at the site, the Tofield Health Centre is discontinuing Alberta Health Services’ (AHS) Use of Masks to Prevent Transmission of COVID-19 Directive.
The enhanced masking directive was implemented at the site on Nov. 7 in response to COVID-19 cases and outbreaks impacting the facility. Since that time, new case numbers have slowed, and test positivity rates have decreased.
Based on the local risk assessment, the site will end enhanced masking requirements at this time.
The site will continue to follow routine IPC and outbreak management precautions.
AHS staff, physicians, volunteers, contracted service providers, and Alberta Precision Laboratories workers are no longer required to mask while in patient-facing areas at Ponoka Hospital and Care Centre. Masking is also no longer required in common areas like hallways, the cafeteria or the gift shop.
Ongoing monitoring of COVID-19 activity and its impact on the site continues to be monitored. The site remains ready to re-introduce enhanced measures again should the need arise.
The enhanced masking directive remains in place at:
This includes continuing care sites that are co-located in the identified sites.
Masking is just one strategy out of a package of preventive measures. As always, all staff are encouraged to mask, stay home when ill and, to continue to practice diligent hand hygiene as part of ongoing efforts to keep patients, families and each other safe and healthy. For more information and specific guidance, please refer to the Masking FAQ.
Ponoka Hospital and Care Centre discontinuing enhanced masking directive
PONOKA – Following a decline in COVID-19 activity at the site, the Ponoka Hospital and Care Centre is discontinuing Alberta Health Services’ (AHS) Use of Masks to Prevent Transmission of COVID-19 Directive.
The enhanced masking directive was implemented at the site on Nov. 17 in response to COVID-19 cases and outbreaks impacting the facility. Since that time, new case numbers have slowed, and test positivity rates have decreased.
Based on the local risk assessment, the site will end enhanced masking requirements at this time.
The site will continue to follow routine IPC and outbreak management precautions.
AHS staff, physicians, volunteers, contracted service providers, and Alberta Precision Laboratories workers are no longer required to mask while in patient-facing areas at Ponoka Hospital and Care Centre. Masking is also no longer required in common areas like hallways, staircases or the cafeteria.
Ongoing monitoring of COVID-19 activity and its impact on the site continues to be monitored. The site remains ready to re-introduce enhanced measures again should the need arise.
The enhanced masking directive remains in place at:
This includes continuing care sites that are co-located in the identified sites.
Masking is just one strategy out of a package of preventive measures. As always, all staff are encouraged to mask, stay home when ill and, to continue to practice diligent hand hygiene as part of ongoing efforts to keep patients, families and each other safe and healthy. For more information and specific guidance, please refer to the Masking FAQ.
Strathmore District Health Services adopts enhanced masking directive
CALGARY – The Use of Masks to Prevent Transmission of COVID-19 Directive has been implemented at Strathmore District Health Services, to help prevent transmission of COVID-19.
As of November 29, 2023, enhanced masking is required for AHS staff, physicians, volunteers, contracted service providers, and Alberta Precision Laboratories workers in patient-facing areas at Strathmore District Health Services.
Enhanced masking will also be required for patients, designated family/support persons and visitors in areas where contact with patients with Influenza-like Illness (ILI) may be present (e.g. main floor, public hallways). These areas will be identified with signage, and masks will be made available.
No patient shall be denied services.
Wearing a mask is optional for AHS workers when they are in an area where there is no contact with patients (staff break rooms/meeting rooms, corporate settings, health records departments).
The decision to implement enhanced masking at this site is based on several factors including rate of hospitalizations, number of outbreaks, occupancy, test positivity, and situational context. Site signage will indicate enhanced masking has been implemented. As of November 29, 2023, there is one unit on COVID-19 outbreak at Strathmore District Health Services.
The enhanced masking directive remains in place at:
This includes continuing care sites that are co-located in the identified sites.
Masking is just one strategy out of a package of preventive measures. As always, all staff are encouraged to mask, stay home when ill and, to continue to practice diligent hand hygiene as part of ongoing efforts to keep patients, families and each other safe and healthy. For more information and specific guidance, please refer to the Masking FAQ.
Rockyview General Hospital adopts enhanced masking directive
CALGARY – The Use of Masks to Prevent Transmission of COVID-19 Directive has been implemented at the Rockyview General Hospital, to help prevent transmission of COVID-19.
As of tomorrow, November 28, 2023, enhanced masking is required for AHS staff, physicians, volunteers, contracted service providers, and Alberta Precision Laboratories workers in patient-facing areas at the Rockyview General Hospital.
Patients, designated support persons and visitors are required to wear masks in the Emergency Department, as well as areas where staff determine masking is required. These areas will be identified with signage, and masks will be made available.
No patient shall be denied services.
Wearing a mask is optional for AHS workers when they are in an area where there is no or limited contact with patients (hallways, staff break rooms/meeting rooms, corporate settings, health records departments).
The decision to implement enhanced masking at this site is based on several factors including rate of hospitalizations, number of outbreaks, occupancy, test positivity, and situational context. Site signage will indicate enhanced masking has been implemented. As of November 27, 2023, there are two units on COVID-19 outbreak at the Rockyview General Hospital.
The enhanced masking directive remains in place at:
This includes continuing care sites that are co-located in the identified sites.
Masking is just one strategy out of a package of preventive measures. As always, all staff are encouraged to mask, stay home when ill and, to continue to practice diligent hand hygiene as part of ongoing efforts to keep patients, families and each other safe and healthy. For more information and specific guidance, please refer to the Masking FAQ.
Olds Hospital and Care Centre discontinuing enhanced masking directive
OLDS – Following a decline in COVID-19 activity at the site, the Olds Hospital and Care Centre is discontinuing Alberta Health Services’ (AHS) Use of Masks to Prevent Transmission of COVID-19 Directive.
The enhanced masking directive was implemented at the site on Nov. 9 in response to COVID-19 cases and outbreaks impacting the facility. Since that time, new case numbers have slowed, and test positivity rates have decreased.
Based on the local risk assessment, the site will end enhanced masking requirements at this time.
The site will continue to follow routine IPC and outbreak management precautions.
AHS staff, physicians, volunteers, contracted service providers, and Alberta Precision Laboratories workers are no longer required to mask while in patient-facing areas at Olds Hospital and Care Centre. Masking is also no longer required in common areas like hallways, staircases or the cafeteria.
Ongoing monitoring of COVID-19 activity and its impact on the site continues to be monitored. The site remains ready to re-introduce enhanced measures again should the need arise.
The enhanced masking directive remains in place at:
This includes continuing care sites that are co-located in the identified sites.
Masking is just one strategy out of a package of preventive measures. As always, all staff are encouraged to mask, stay home when ill and, to continue to practice diligent hand hygiene as part of ongoing efforts to keep patients, families and each other safe and healthy. For more information and specific guidance, please refer to the Masking FAQ.
Peter Lougheed Centre adopts enhanced masking directive
The Peter Lougheed Centre has implemented the Use of Masks to Prevent Transmission of COVID-19 Directive, to help prevent transmission of COVID-19.
As of today, November 22, 2023, enhanced masking is required for AHS staff, physicians, volunteers, contracted service providers, and Alberta Precision Laboratories workers in patient-facing areas at the Peter Lougheed Centre.
Patients and visitors are not required to wear masks at this site, except for areas where staff determine masking is required. These areas will be identified with signage, and masks will be made available.
No patient shall be denied services.
Wearing a mask is optional for AHS workers when they are in an area where there is no contact with patients (staff break rooms/meeting rooms, corporate settings, health records departments).
The decision to implement enhanced masking at this site is based on several factors including rate of hospitalizations, number of outbreaks, occupancy, test positivity, and situational context. Site signage will indicate enhanced masking has been implemented. As of today – Wednesday, November 22 - there are two units at the Peter Lougheed Centre on COVID-19 outbreak.
The enhanced masking directive remains in place at:
This includes continuing care sites that are co-located in the identified sites.
Masking is just one strategy out of a package of preventive measures. As always, all staff are encouraged to mask, stay home when ill and, to continue to practice diligent hand hygiene as part of ongoing efforts to keep patients, families and each other safe and healthy. For more information and specific guidance, please refer to the Masking FAQ.
Wainwright Health Centre discontinuing enhanced masking directive
WAINWRIGHT – Following a decline in COVID-19 activity at the site, the Wainwright Health Centre is discontinuing Alberta Health Services’ (AHS) Use of Masks to Prevent Transmission of COVID-19 Directive.
The enhanced masking directive was implemented at the site on Nov. 16 in response to COVID-19 cases and outbreaks impacting the facility. Since that time, new case numbers have slowed, and test positivity rates have decreased.
Based on the local risk assessment, the site will end enhanced masking requirements at this time.
The site will continue to follow routine IPC and outbreak management precautions.
AHS staff, physicians, volunteers, contracted service providers, and Alberta Precision Laboratories workers are no longer required to mask while in patient-facing areas at Wainwright Health Centre. Masking is also no longer required in common areas like hallways, staircases, the elevator or the cafeteria.
Ongoing monitoring of COVID-19 activity and its impact on the site continues to be monitored. The site remains ready to re-introduce enhanced measures again should the need arise.
The enhanced masking directive remains in place at:
This includes continuing care sites that are co-located in the identified sites.
Masking is just one strategy out of a package of preventive measures. As always, all staff are encouraged to mask, stay home when ill and, to continue to practice diligent hand hygiene as part of ongoing efforts to keep patients, families and each other safe and healthy. For more information and specific guidance, please refer to the Masking FAQ.
Daysland Health Centre discontinuing enhanced masking directive
DAYSLAND – Following a decline in COVID-19 activity at the site, the Daysland Health Centre is discontinuing Alberta Health Services’ (AHS) Use of Masks to Prevent Transmission of COVID-19 Directive.
The enhanced masking directive was implemented at the site on Nov. 4 in response to COVID-19 cases and outbreaks impacting the facility. Since that time, new case numbers have slowed, and test positivity rates have decreased.
Based on the local risk assessment, the site will end enhanced masking requirements at this time.
The site will continue to follow routine IPC and outbreak management precautions.
AHS staff, physicians, volunteers, contracted service providers, and Alberta Precision Laboratories workers are no longer required to mask while in patient-facing areas at Daysland Health Centre – including in the rehabilitation unit. Masking is also no longer required in common areas like hallways or the cafeteria.
Ongoing monitoring of COVID-19 activity and its impact on the site continues to be monitored. The site remains ready to re-introduce enhanced measures again should the need arise.
The enhanced masking directive remains in place at:
This includes continuing care sites that are co-located in the identified sites.
Masking is just one strategy out of a package of preventive measures. As always, all staff are encouraged to mask, stay home when ill and, to continue to practice diligent hand hygiene as part of ongoing efforts to keep patients, families and each other safe and healthy. For more information and specific guidance, please refer to the Masking FAQ.
Ponoka Hospital and Care Centre adopts enhanced masking directive
PONOKA – The Use of Masks to Prevent Transmission of COVID-19 Directive has been implemented at Ponoka Hospital and Care Centre, to help prevent transmission of COVID-19.
Effective November 17, enhanced masking is now required for AHS staff, physicians, volunteers, contracted service providers, and Alberta Precision Laboratories workers in patient-facing areas throughout the Ponoka Hospital and Care Centre.
Enhanced masking requirements are in place in all patient care areas across the facility, including in the continuing care unit which is co-located in the site. Enhanced masking is also in place for common areas where patient contact could occur, including in hallways, the cafeteria and the gift shop.
Patients and visitors are not required to wear a mask in these areas, however masking is required for patients, designated support persons and visitors in the emergency department and labour and delivery.
No patient shall be denied services.
Wearing a mask is optional for AHS workers when they are in an area where there is no contact with patients (staff break rooms/meeting rooms, corporate settings, health records departments). AHS continues to respect the choice to voluntarily wear a mask in all areas and encourages those who want to wear a mask to continue to wear one.
The decision to implement enhanced masking at Ponoka Hospital and Care Centre is based on several factors including rate of hospitalizations, outbreak status, occupancy, test positivity, and situational context.
Site signage will indicate enhanced masking has been implemented.
The enhanced masking directive remains in place at:
This includes continuing care sites that are co-located in the identified sites.
Masking is just one strategy out of a package of preventive measures. As always, all staff are encouraged to mask, stay home when ill and, to continue to practice diligent hand hygiene as part of ongoing efforts to keep patients, families and each other safe and healthy. For more information and specific guidance, please refer to the Masking FAQ.
Two Hills Health Centre adopts enhanced masking directive
TWO HILLS – The Use of Masks to Prevent Transmission of COVID-19 Directive has been implemented at Two Hills Health Centre, to help prevent transmission of COVID-19.
Effective November 17, enhanced masking is now required for AHS staff, physicians, volunteers, contracted service providers, and Alberta Precision Laboratories workers in patient-facing areas throughout the Two Hills Health Centre.
Enhanced masking requirements are in place in all patient care areas across the facility, including in the continuing care unit which is co-located in the site. Enhanced masking is also in place for common areas where patient contact could occur, including in hallways, elevators, the cafeteria and the gift shop.
Patients and visitors are not required to wear a mask in these areas, however masking is required for patients, designated support persons and visitors in the emergency department and labour and delivery.
No patient shall be denied services.
Wearing a mask is optional for AHS workers when they are in an area where there is no contact with patients (staff break rooms/meeting rooms, corporate settings, health records departments). AHS continues to respect the choice to voluntarily wear a mask in all areas and encourages those who want to wear a mask to continue to wear one.
The decision to implement enhanced masking at Two Hills Health Centre is based on several factors including rate of hospitalizations, outbreak status, occupancy, test positivity, and situational context.
Site signage will indicate enhanced masking has been implemented.
The enhanced masking directive remains in place at:
This includes continuing care sites that are co-located in the identified sites.
Masking is just one strategy out of a package of preventive measures. As always, all staff are encouraged to mask, stay home when ill and, to continue to practice diligent hand hygiene as part of ongoing efforts to keep patients, families and each other safe and healthy. For more information and specific guidance, please refer to the Masking FAQ.
Drumheller Health Centre discontinuing enhanced masking directive
DRUMHELLER – Following a decline in COVID-19 activity at the site, the Drumheller Health Centre is discontinuing Alberta Health Services’ (AHS) Use of Masks to Prevent Transmission of COVID-19 Directive.
The enhanced masking directive was implemented at the site on Nov. 3 in response to COVID-19 cases and outbreaks impacting both acute and continuing care areas at the facility. Since that time, new case numbers have slowed, and test positivity rates have decreased.
Based on the local risk assessment, the site will end enhanced masking requirements at this time.
The site will continue to follow routine IPC and outbreak management precautions.
AHS staff, physicians, volunteers, contracted service providers, and Alberta Precision Laboratories workers are no longer required to mask while in patient-facing areas at Drumheller Health Centre – including in the Community Cancer Centre. Masking is also no longer required in common areas like hallways or the cafeteria.
Ongoing monitoring of COVID-19 activity and its impact on the site continues to be monitored. The site remains ready to re-introduce enhanced measures again should the need arise.
The enhanced masking directive remains in place at:
This includes continuing care sites that are co-located in the identified sites.
Masking is just one strategy out of a package of preventive measures. As always, all staff are encouraged to mask, stay home when ill and, to continue to practice diligent hand hygiene as part of ongoing efforts to keep patients, families and each other safe and healthy. For more information and specific guidance, please refer to the Masking FAQ.
Wainwright Health Centre adopts enhanced masking directive
Wainwright – The Use of Masks to Prevent Transmission of COVID-19 Directive has been implemented at Wainwright Health Centre, to help prevent transmission of COVID-19.
Effective November 16, enhanced masking is now required for AHS staff, physicians, volunteers, contracted service providers, and Alberta Precision Laboratories workers in patient-facing areas throughout the Wainwright Health Centre.
Enhanced masking requirements are in place in all patient care areas across the facility, including in the continuing care unit which is co-located in the site. Enhanced masking is also in place for common areas where patient contact could occur, including in hallways, elevators and the cafeteria.
Patients and visitors are not required to wear a mask in these areas, however masking is required for patients, designated support persons and visitors in the emergency department and labour and delivery.
No patient shall be denied services.
Wearing a mask is optional for AHS workers when they are in an area where there is no contact with patients (staff break rooms/meeting rooms, corporate settings, health records departments). AHS continues to respect the choice to voluntarily wear a mask in all areas and encourages those who want to wear a mask to continue to wear one.
The decision to implement enhanced masking at Wainwright Health Centre is based on several factors including rate of hospitalizations, outbreak status, occupancy, test positivity, and situational context.
Site signage will indicate enhanced masking has been implemented.
The enhanced masking directive remains in place at:
This includes continuing care sites that are co-located in the identified sites.
Masking is just one strategy out of a package of preventive measures. As always, all staff are encouraged to mask, stay home when ill and, to continue to practice diligent hand hygiene as part of ongoing efforts to keep patients, families and each other safe and healthy. For more information and specific guidance, please refer to the Masking FAQ.
Tom Baker Cancer Centre adopts enhanced masking directive
The Use of Masks to Prevent Transmission of COVID-19 Directive has been implemented at Tom Baker Cancer Centre, to help prevent transmission of COVID-19.
Enhanced masking is now required for AHS staff, physicians, volunteers, contracted service providers, and Alberta Precision Laboratories workers in patient-facing areas at Tom Baker.
Enhanced masking requirements will be in place at this site from November 9, in all patient care areas, elevators/staircases/hallways, common areas, gift shops, and cafeterias where patient contact could occur.
Patients and visitors are not required to wear masks at this site, except for areas where staff determine masking is required. These areas will be identified with signage, and masks will be made available.
No patient shall be denied services.
Wearing a mask is optional for AHS workers when they are in an area where there is no contact with patients (staff break rooms/meeting rooms, corporate settings, health records departments).
The decision to implement enhanced masking at this site is based on several factors including the risk to vulnerable, immune-compromised patients, and the need to protect limited specialized staff resources. Site signage will indicate enhanced masking has been implemented.
The enhanced masking directive remains in place at:
This includes continuing care sites that are co-located in the identified sites.
Masking is just one strategy out of a package of preventive measures. As always, all staff are encouraged to mask, stay home when ill and, to continue to practice diligent hand hygiene as part of ongoing efforts to keep patients, families and each other safe and healthy. For more information and specific guidance, please refer to the Masking FAQ.
Olds Hospital and Care Centre adopts enhanced masking directive
The Use of Masks to Prevent Transmission of COVID-19 Directive has been implemented at Olds Hospital and Care Centre, to help prevent transmission of COVID-19.
Effective November 9, enhanced masking is now required for AHS staff, physicians, volunteers, contracted service providers, and Alberta Precision Laboratories workers in patient-facing areas throughout the Olds Hospital and Care Centre.
Enhanced masking requirements are in place in all patient care areas across the facility, including in the continuing care unit which is co-located in the site. Enhanced masking is also in place for common areas where patient contact could occur, including in hallways, elevators, the cafeteria and in the gift shop.
Patients and visitors are not required to wear a mask in these areas, however masking is required for patients, designated support persons and visitors in the emergency department and labour and delivery triage/assessment area.
No patient shall be denied services.
Wearing a mask is optional for AHS workers when they are in an area where there is no contact with patients (staff break rooms/meeting rooms, corporate settings, health records departments). AHS continues to respect the choice to voluntarily wear a mask in all areas and encourages those who want to wear a mask to continue to wear one.
The decision to implement enhanced masking at Olds Hospital and Care Centre is based on several factors including rate of hospitalizations, outbreak status, occupancy, test positivity, and situational context.
Site signage will indicate enhanced masking has been implemented.
The enhanced masking directive remains in place at:
This includes continuing care sites that are co-located in the identified sites.
Masking is just one strategy out of a package of preventive measures. As always, all staff are encouraged to mask, stay home when ill and, to continue to practice diligent hand hygiene as part of ongoing efforts to keep patients, families and each other safe and healthy. For more information and specific guidance, please refer to the Masking FAQ.
Tofield Health Centre adopts enhanced masking directive
The Use of Masks to Prevent Transmission of COVID-19 Directive has been implemented at Tofield Health Centre, to help prevent transmission of COVID-19.
Effective November 7, enhanced masking is now required for AHS staff, physicians, volunteers, contracted service providers, and Alberta Precision Laboratories workers in patient-facing areas throughout the Tofield Health Centre.
Enhanced masking requirements are in place in all patient care areas across the facility, including in the continuing care unit which is co-located in the site. Enhanced masking is also in place for common areas where patient contact could occur, including in hallways, the cafeteria and in the gift shop.
Patients and visitors are not required to wear a mask in these areas, however masking is required for patients, designated support persons and visitors in the emergency department and triage/assessment area.
No patient shall be denied services.
Wearing a mask is optional for AHS workers when they are in an area where there is no contact with patients (staff break rooms/meeting rooms, corporate settings, health records departments). AHS continues to respect the choice to voluntarily wear a mask in all areas and encourages those who want to wear a mask to continue to wear one.
The decision to implement enhanced masking at Tofield Health Centre is based on several factors including rate of hospitalizations, outbreak status, occupancy, test positivity, and situational context.
Site signage will indicate enhanced masking has been implemented.
The enhanced masking directive remains in place at:
This includes continuing care sites that are co-located in the identified sites.
Masking is just one strategy out of a package of preventive measures. As always, all staff are encouraged to mask, stay home when ill and, to continue to practice diligent hand hygiene as part of ongoing efforts to keep patients, families and each other safe and healthy. For more information and specific guidance, please refer to the Masking FAQ.
Daysland Health Centre adopts enhanced masking directive
The Use of Masks to Prevent Transmission of COVID-19 Directive has been implemented at Daysland Health Centre, to help prevent transmission of COVID-19.
Effective November 4, enhanced masking is now required for AHS staff, physicians, volunteers, contracted service providers, and Alberta Precision Laboratories workers in patient-facing areas throughout the Daysland Health Centre.
Enhanced masking requirements are in place in all patient care areas across the facility, including in the rehabilitation areas which are co-located in the site. Enhanced masking is also in place for common areas where patient contact could occur, including in hallways, the cafeteria and in the gift shop.
Patients and visitors are not required to wear a mask in these areas, however masking is required for patients, designated support persons and visitors in the emergency department and triage/assessment area.
No patient shall be denied services.
Wearing a mask is optional for AHS workers when they are in an area where there is no contact with patients (staff break rooms/meeting rooms, corporate settings, health records departments). AHS continues to respect the choice to voluntarily wear a mask in all areas and encourages those who want to wear a mask to continue to wear one.
The decision to implement enhanced masking at Daysland Health Centre is based on several factors including rate of hospitalizations, outbreak status, occupancy, test positivity, and situational context.
Site signage will indicate enhanced masking has been implemented.
The enhanced masking directive remains in place at:
This includes continuing care sites that are co-located in the identified sites.
Masking is just one strategy out of a package of preventive measures. As always, all staff are encouraged to mask, stay home when ill and, to continue to practice diligent hand hygiene as part of ongoing efforts to keep patients, families and each other safe and healthy. For more information and specific guidance, please refer to the Masking FAQ.
Drumheller Health Centre adopts enhanced masking directive
The Use of Masks to Prevent Transmission of COVID-19 Directive has been implemented at Drumheller Health Centre, to help prevent transmission of COVID-19.
Effective November 3, enhanced masking is now required for AHS staff, physicians, volunteers, contracted service providers, and Alberta Precision Laboratories workers in patient-facing areas at Drumheller Health Centre.
Enhanced masking requirements are in place in all patient care areas across the entire facility, including in the long-term care and supportive living wings at the site, as well as in co-located service areas like the Community Cancer Centre.
Enhanced masking is also in place for common areas where patient contact could occur, including in hallways, the cafeteria and in the gift shop.
Patients and visitors are not required to wear a mask in these areas, however masking is required for patients, designated support persons and visitors in the emergency department and labour and delivery area.
No patient shall be denied services.
Wearing a mask is optional for AHS workers when they are in an area where there is no contact with patients (staff break rooms/meeting rooms, corporate settings, health records departments). AHS continues to respect the choice to voluntarily wear a mask in all areas and encourages those who want to wear a mask to continue to wear one.
The decision to implement enhanced masking at Drumheller Health Centre is based on several factors including rate of hospitalizations, number of outbreaks, occupancy, test positivity, and situational context.
Site signage will indicate enhanced masking has been implemented.
The enhanced masking directive remains in place at:
This includes continuing care sites that are co-located in the identified sites.
Masking is just one strategy out of a package of preventive measures. As always, all staff are encouraged to mask, stay home when ill and, to continue to practice diligent hand hygiene as part of ongoing efforts to keep patients, families and each other safe and healthy. For more information and specific guidance, please refer to the Masking FAQ.
East Edmonton Health Centre Urgent Care Centre adopts enhanced masking directive
The Use of Masks to Prevent Transmission of COVID-19 Directive has been implemented at East Edmonton Health Centre (EEHC) Urgent Care Centre, to help prevent transmission of COVID-19.
Enhanced masking is now required for AHS staff, physicians, volunteers, contracted service providers, and Alberta Precision Laboratories workers in patient-facing areas at EEHC’s Urgent Care Centre.
Enhanced masking requirements is in place at the EEHC Urgent Care Centre in all patient care areas, elevators/staircases/hallways, and common areas where patient contact could occur.
Masking is required for patients, designated family/support persons and visitors in the Urgent Care Centre at EEHC. No patient shall be denied services.
Wearing a mask is optional for AHS workers when they are in an area where there is no contact with patients (staff break rooms/meeting rooms, corporate settings, health records departments).
AHS continues to respect the choice to voluntarily wear a mask in all areas and encourages those who want to wear a mask to continue to wear one.
The enhanced masking directive remains in place at:
This includes continuing care sites that are co-located in the identified sites.
The decision to implement enhanced masking at these sites is based on several factors including rate of hospitalizations, number of outbreaks, occupancy, test positivity, and situational context. Site signage will indicate enhanced masking has been implemented.
Masking is just one strategy out of a package of preventive measures. As always, all staff are encouraged to mask, stay home when ill and, to continue to practice diligent hand hygiene as part of ongoing efforts to keep patients, families and each other safe and healthy. For more information and specific guidance, please refer to the Masking FAQ.
Sturgeon Community Hospital adopts enhanced masking directive
The Use of Masks to Prevent Transmission of COVID-19 Directive has been implemented at Sturgeon Community Hospital, to help prevent transmission of COVID-19.
Enhanced masking is now required for AHS staff, physicians, volunteers, contracted service providers, and Alberta Precision Laboratories workers in patient-facing areas at Sturgeon Community Hospital.
Enhanced masking requirements is in place at this site in all patient care areas, elevators/staircases/hallways, common areas, gift shops, and cafeterias where patient contact could occur.
Patients and visitors are not required to wear a mask in these areas; however, masking is required for patients, designated family/support persons and visitors in the emergency departments and labour and delivery assessment/triage areas in those identified sites. No patient shall be denied services.
Wearing a mask is optional for AHS workers when they are in an area where there is no contact with patients (staff break rooms/meeting rooms, corporate settings, health records departments).
Masking is also optional at continuing care and Addiction and Mental Health settings that are not within an acute care site. However, AHS continues to respect the choice to voluntarily wear a mask in all areas and encourages those who want to wear a mask to continue to wear one.
The enhanced masking directive remains in place at:
This includes continuing care sites that are co-located in the identified sites.
The decision to implement enhanced masking at these sites is based on several factors including rate of hospitalizations, number of outbreaks, occupancy, test positivity, and situational context. Site signage will indicate enhanced masking has been implemented.
Masking is just one strategy out of a package of preventive measures. As always, all staff are encouraged to mask, stay home when ill and, to continue to practice diligent hand hygiene as part of ongoing efforts to keep patients, families and each other safe and healthy. For more information and specific guidance, please refer to the Masking FAQ.
Enhanced masking directive adopted at six additional sites in Edmonton Zone
The Use of Masks to Prevent Transmission of COVID-19 Directive has been implemented at six additional sites in Edmonton Zone, to help prevent transmission of COVID-19.
Enhanced masking is now required for AHS staff, physicians, volunteers, contracted service providers, and Alberta Precision Laboratories workers in patient-facing areas at
Enhanced masking requirements is in place at these sites in all patient care areas, elevators/staircases/hallways, common areas, gift shops, and cafeterias where patient contact could occur in acute care facilities. This includes continuing care sites that are co-located in the identified sites.
Patients and visitors are not required to wear a mask in these areas, however masking is required for patients, designated support persons and visitors in the emergency departments and labour and delivery assessment/triage areas in those identified sites. No patient shall be denied services.
Wearing a mask is optional for AHS workers when they are in an area where there is no contact with patients (staff break rooms/meeting rooms, corporate settings, health records departments).
Masking is also optional at continuing care and Addiction and Mental Health settings that are not within an acute care site. However, AHS continues to respect the choice to voluntarily wear a mask in all areas and encourages those who want to wear a mask to continue to wear one.
In addition to the six sites listed above, the enhanced masking directive remains in place at:
The decision to implement enhanced masking at these sites is based on several factors including rate of hospitalizations, number of outbreaks, occupancy, test positivity, and situational context. Site signage will indicate enhanced masking has been implemented.
Masking is just one strategy out of a package of preventive measures. As always, all staff are encouraged to mask, stay home when ill and, to continue to practice diligent hand hygiene as part of ongoing efforts to keep patients, families and each other safe and healthy. For more information and specific guidance, please refer to the Masking FAQ.
Cross Cancer Institute adopts enhanced masking directive
The Use of Masks to Prevent Transmission of COVID-19 Directive has been implemented at the Cross Cancer Institute, to help prevent transmission of COVID-19.
Enhanced masking is now required for AHS staff, physicians, volunteers, contracted service providers, and Alberta Precision Laboratories workers in patient-facing areas at the Cross Cancer Institute.
Enhanced masking requirements will be in place at this site from October 20, in all patient care areas, elevators/staircases/hallways, common areas, gift shops, and cafeterias where patient contact could occur.
Patients and visitors are not required to wear masks at this site, except for areas where staff determine masking is required. These areas will be identified with signage, and masks will be made available. No patient shall be denied services.
Wearing a mask is optional for AHS workers when they are in an area where there is no contact with patients (staff break rooms/meeting rooms, corporate settings, health records departments).
Masking is also optional at continuing care and Addiction and Mental Health settings that are not within an acute care site. However, AHS continues to respect the choice to voluntarily wear a mask in all areas and encourages those who want to wear a mask to continue to wear one.
The decision to implement enhanced masking at this site is based on several factors including the risk to vulnerable, immune-compromised patients, and the need to protect limited specialized staff resources. Site signage will indicate enhanced masking has been implemented.
Masking is just one strategy out of a package of preventive measures. As always, all staff are encouraged to mask, stay home when ill and, to continue to practice diligent hand hygiene as part of ongoing efforts to keep patients, families and each other safe and healthy. For more information and specific guidance, please refer to the Masking FAQ.
The Use of Masks to Prevent Transmission of COVID-19 Directive has been implemented at six acute care sites in Edmonton Zone, and at Red Deer Regional Hospital Centre in Central Zone, to help prevent transmission of COVID-19. Enhanced masking is now required for AHS staff, physicians, volunteers, contracted service providers, and Alberta Precision Laboratories workers in patient-facing areas at:
Enhanced masking requirements will be in place at these seven sites on October 16 in all patient care areas, elevators/staircases/hallways, common areas, gift shops, and cafeterias where patient contact could occur in acute care facilities.
This includes continuing care sites that are co-located in the identified sites. At RDRHC, this also includes the Central Alberta Cancer Centre, which is co-located at the site.
Patients and visitors are not required to wear a mask in these areas, however masking is required for patients, designated support persons and visitors in the emergency departments and labour and delivery assessment/triage areas in those identified sites. No patient shall be denied services.
Wearing a mask is optional for AHS workers when they are in an area where there is no contact with patients (staff break rooms/meeting rooms, corporate settings, health records departments).
Masking is also optional at continuing care and Addiction and Mental Health settings that are not within an acute care site. However, AHS continues to respect the choice to voluntarily wear a mask in all areas and encourages those who want to wear a mask to continue to wear one.
The decision to implement enhanced masking at this site is based on several factors including rate of hospitalizations, number of outbreaks, occupancy, test positivity, and situational context. Site signage will indicate enhanced masking has been implemented.
As of October 16, there were 12 units on outbreak at Royal Alexandra Hospital, two units on outbreak at University of Alberta Hospital, five units on outbreak at Misericordia Community Hospital, two units on outbreak at Grey Nuns Community Hospital, three units on outbreak at Alberta Hospital Edmonton, and two units on outbreak at Glenrose
Rehabilitation Hospital. As of October 16, there were three units at RDRHC on COVID-19 outbreak.
Masking is just one strategy out of a package of preventive measures. As always, all staff are encouraged to mask, stay home when ill and, to continue to practice diligent hand hygiene as part of ongoing efforts to keep patients, families and each other safe and healthy. For more information and specific guidance, please refer to the Masking FAQ.
Royal Alexandra Hospital adopts enhanced masking directive
The Royal Alexandra Hospital has implemented the Use of Masks to Prevent Transmission of COVID-19 Directive, to help prevent transmission of COVID-19. The decision to implement the directive was made by site leadership, at a site level.
Enhanced masking is now required for AHS staff, physicians, volunteers, contracted service providers, and Alberta Precision Laboratories workers in patient-facing areas at the Royal Alexandra Hospital.
This includes acute care areas such as the Robbins Pavilion, Active Treatment Centre (ATC), Diagnostic Treatment Centre (DTC), Orthopedic Surgery Centre (OSC), Women’s Building, and the Children’s Centre.
Enhanced masking for staff, physicians, midwives, students, contracted service providers and volunteers is required in any areas of the acute care buildings listed above including elevators, staircases, hallways, common areas, gift shops, and cafeterias where patient contact could occur.
Patients and visitors are not required to wear a mask in these areas, however masking is required for patients, designated support persons and visitors in the Royal Alexandra Hospital emergency department, and labour and delivery assessment/treatment areas. No patient shall be denied services.
Wearing a mask is optional for AHS workers when they are in an area where there is no contact with patients (staff break rooms/meeting rooms, corporate settings, health records departments).
Masking is also optional at continuing care and Addiction and Mental Health settings that are not within an acute care site. However, AHS continues to respect the choice to voluntarily wear a mask in all areas and encourages those who want to wear a mask to continue to wear one.
The decision to implement enhanced masking at this site is based on several factors including rate of hospitalizations, number of outbreaks, occupancy, test positivity, and situational context. Site signage will indicate enhanced masking has been implemented. As of Tuesday (October 11), there were 12 units at Royal Alexandra Hospital on COVID-19 outbreak.
Masking is just one strategy out of a package of preventive measures. As always, all staff are encouraged to mask, stay home when ill and, to continue to practice diligent hand hygiene as part of ongoing efforts to keep patients, families and each other safe and healthy. For more information and specific guidance, please refer to the Masking FAQ.
No AHS acute care facilities have implemented the Use of Masks to Prevent Transmission of COVID-19 Directive.