To make sure that your time at Kingston Health Sciences Centre (KHSC) is as comfortable as possible, here is some information that may be helpful:
Privacy
We protect your personal health information including your name, date-of-birth, address, health history, records of your visits to hospitals and the care that you received during those visits. For more information on privacy at KHSC, visit our privacy page.
Informed Consent
There may be times when we ask for your consent before you start treatment or care. Your consent must be voluntary. Before deciding to give your consent, here are some questions you should ask:
- What are the benefits, risks or side-effects?
- Are there other treatment options?
- What happens if I don't consent to the treatment?
- How do I ask for a second opinion?
Communication
CELL PHONES
Cell phones sometimes interfere with patient care equipment. For the safety of all of our patients, please check with your care team before using your cell phone. It’s safe to use your cell phones in any of our non-patient areas, including lobbies, family lounges and cafeterias. When using your cell phone please be considerate of other patients, their families and staff and ensure appropriate consent is obtained from any individual you may be capturing in a photo or other recording.
SOCIAL MEDIA
Websites like Facebook, Twitter and Instagram are a great way to keep connected with your family and friends. However, for the comfort and privacy of other patients and staff, please don't take or share pictures, videos or audio recordings of them without their permission.
WIFI
Wifi access is available in all areas of both hospital sites through a secure wireless network. You do not need a password to access the wireless network.
TELEPHONES
Every patient has access to a bedside telephone. For local outgoing calls, dial 9, the area code and the telephone number. To reach any number within KHSC, dial zero (0) and ask the operator to connect you. Long-distance calls can be made using a calling card.
Research
Patient-oriented research is a hallmark of what we do at KHSC. Since we are a research hospital, you may be asked to participate in a research study. Please remember, it is always your decision whether or not you want to participate. If you are not interested in participating, please notify a member of your care team. If you choose to not participate in a research study, this will in no way impact your care. If you would like to learn more about the research activities taking place at KHSC, please visit the Kingston General Health Research Institute's website.
Washrooms
Please be aware that to prevent the spread of infections and to keep you safe, washrooms in patients' rooms are for patients use only. We have public washrooms on every floor and in every department of the health sciences centre and visitors and family members are welcome to use any of them.
Patient Relations
Your feedback is important. If you have a concern, compliment, or comment we want to know. While we encourage you to first speak directly with a member of your care team or unit manager, you can also contact Patient Relations by phone at 1-800-567-5722 extension 4158 or by email at @email. For more information about Patient Relations, click here.
