West Chester Hospital

Visitor Information


A patient or their representative has the right to choose who may and may not visit, regardless of whether the visitor is legally related to the patient.

Patient privacy, confidentiality and wellness are taken into consideration when determining visiting hours for a patient. In some cases, visitation may be restricted because of patient clinical issues. However, limits on visitation shall never be based upon age, race, color, religion, genetic information, ancestry, military status or protected veteran status, sex, national origin, gender identity, disability, sexual orientation, or any other status protected by applicable law. Guidelines have been established to protect the safety and well-being of our patients, guests and staff.

VISITING HOURS**

Due to many reasons, our visiting hours may vary. 

In the Emergency Department, patients will need to limit their visitors to two (2) individuals in the exam room because of the smaller room size and potential for crowding. Other guests are invited to wait in the Emergency Department lobby. 

Visitors are permitted only within the intended patient’s room and public areas of the hospital. Unless otherwise indicated, visitors are not permitted in unit kitchens, treatment rooms, chart rooms or other areas where supplies, medications and/or hygienic conditions must be maintained. 

Visitors who have chosen to stay overnight are not permitted to leave the respective unit after hours, except in the case of an emergency.

VISITS BY CHILDREN**

Children younger than 14 years may visit most patient care areas and all public areas of the hospital during regular visiting hours if accompanied by a parent or other responsible adult. Children without supervision will be returned to the responsible adult. If a child shows symptoms of illness or infection, visitation may be restricted. For the safety and health of patients and visitors during flu season, special restrictions will be in place regarding visitation by children, particularly limiting visitation to the intensive care unit and maternity unit.

**We occasionally modify visiting hours to prioritize the safety of our patients and staff. It is recommended that you check our website or call ahead to confirm current hours.

VISITS BY CLERGY

Properly identified clergy members may visit members of their own congregation at the request of the patient, family or patient representative.

LIMITATIONS TO VISITING

Visiting may also be limited by a patient, patient representative or physician request. In these cases, visitors will be asked in a courteous manner to leave promptly and quietly. Acceptable criteria for restricting visitors may include, but are not limited to: infection control, sudden change in patient condition, after-hours admission or surgery, patient in active labor, patient death, illegal or questionable substances being introduced in a clinical setting, or other reasons as approved by the nursing manager or supervisor. Visitation may be restricted when clinically appropriate and ordered by a physician or as a result of a court order.

QUIET TIME ON THE MATERNITY UNIT

To help allow our new mothers and babies to rest peacefully, all staff and visitors are asked to limit noise and disruptions on the Maternity Services Unit from 2 to 3 p.m. and 2 to 3 a.m. daily. If you must visit the Maternity Services Unit during these times, please be respectful of quiet time and help our moms and babies rest.

WE ASK FOR YOUR ASSISTANCE

To provide patients with optimal care and recovery, visitors are asked to conduct themselves in a quiet and well-behaved manner, encouraged to be considerate of their loved one’s needs and asked to keep their visits to an appropriate length of time.

Additional Requests

  • We ask that noise levels be kept to a minimum.
  • Alcohol, drug use and smoking are not allowed anywhere on the hospital campus.
  • Disabled visitors accompanied by a service animal may visit patients. In some cases, special arrangements may need to be made in advance with staff members in order to accommodate these visitors.
  • Visitors are asked to use the elevators marked for visitors.
  • Patients will not be allowed to visit other patients unless special circumstances exist. In a case where it is necessary for the patient’s welfare, staff members will make arrangements for a suitable time to visit.
  • Loitering is prohibited on all UC Health property. Loitering is defined as remaining on hospital property without a healthcare, business or other lawful reason to do so. 
  • If you are a relative of a patient or a patient’s representative and would like to speak directly to the patient’s physician, please notify a member of the care team.

INFORMATION DESK

Should you need help locating a patient’s room or need other assistance, please stop by the information desk in the north pavilion/main entrance and pick up the information phone to reach the operator, if the operator is not stationed.