Who is an essential caregiver?

At Oak Valley Health, we appreciate the impact of family, friends, loved ones, and caregivers on patient experience and safety. It is also our priority to keep patients, staff, and visitors safe. As such, the Essential Caregiver Program was developed to safely reintegrate loved ones in the patient’s care throughout their hospital journey.

Essential caregivers are chosen by the patient to assist with patient care and well-being while in the hospital and are considered to be an integral part of the care team. As an essential caregiver, you are considered a part of the circle of care and play a significant role in providing support throughout the patients’ care journey. You are not just a casual visitor, but come to the hospital to assist with the daily care requirements of the patient.

We acknowledge general visitors have an important social role, but are limited to specific visiting times.

How to become an essential caregiver?

If you are interested in becoming an essential caregiver you must:

  • Be 18 years of age or older
  • Be identified by the health care team, patient, and/or substitute decision maker of the patient
  • Successfully complete symptom screening and follow public health guidelines

Although there may be two caregivers who are identified, only one caregiver is to be onsite at a time.

To become an essential caregiver, please connect with the health care team on your loved one’s unit. You will review a guidebook, complete education, and sign a commitment form to join the program.