Visitor Guidelines at Deer Lodge Centre

At DLC we believe visits from family and friends are vital to patients’ and residents’ wellbeing and we are pleased to welcome visitors to the Centre.  Here are some details of what to expect when visiting here:

Thank you for Visiting!

Here are some answers to commonly asked questions to help make your visit safe and enjoyable for everyone.

When can I visit at Deer Lodge Centre?

Visitors are always welcome at DLC however, there are Quiet Hours between 9:00 p.m. and 8:00 a.m. During quiet hours, Visitors may not be able to visit in a resident room, particularly in a shared space. The rest and relaxation of other patients / residents in the room and on the unit must be considered. Visits during this time may occur in public areas. All visitors entering the Centre during Quiet Hours must check with Security at the Portage Avenue entrance.

What entrance should I use to get into the building?

Visitors may access entrances to DLC on Portage Avenue, Duffield Street and Lodge Avenue.

Are Virtual Visits available:

Yes. Family and Friends can continue to schedule Virtual Visits with their loved one. These visits can be scheduled by calling our Patient & Resident Inquiries Hotline at 204-833-1760.

Can I use the washroom on the unit?

All Visitors are asked to use the public washrooms available on the Main Floor and Mezzanine Level of the Centre. Please refer to our Main Floor Map for specific details.

We are planning a family celebration. Are we able to book a gathering space at DLC?

Yes. Family and friends can book birthday, anniversary and holiday celebrations at DLC by calling 204-831-2118.

Can I bring my pet to visit?

Yes, pets are welcome at the Centre. Your pet may visit providing it is kept on a leash or in a carrier.  The visitor bringing the pet is responsible for it during the visit.  Keep in mind that large dogs can be intimidating to some people and please be mindful of this when introducing your pet or sharing space with others.

Pets must be clean, well behaved and recently vaccinated.

In keeping with Public Health regulations, pets cannot be taken into any area where food or beverages are served.  This includes the cafeteria and dining rooms on the patient care units.

We have many Pet Volunteers at DLC. Please visit the Volunteers section of our website for more information.

Can I bring outside food or food from the vending machine to the unit for myself and my loved one?

Visitors, Patients and Residents may enjoy a meal, snacks and beverages together at tables in designated areas including the Cafeteria and Chad’s Bar and outside. 

Is there a restaurant at Deer Lodge Centre?

Yes! DLC Cafeteria is now open 7 days a week during the following hours:

Weekdays: 8:30am – 6:00pm

Weekends: 9:00am – 4:00pm

Refreshments can also be purchased from one of the vending machines located close to the cafeteria or at the DLC Auxiliary Gift Shop.

Can I visit with my relative in the smoking area?

DLC has a designated smoking area outside reserved for Patients and Residents only. Visitors cannot visit with Patients / Residents in the designated smoking area.

I want to bring some items for my family member. What is the process?

Visitors may take personal items, newspapers, books, flowers or prepared food up to unit to give directly to the Patient/ Resident.

Personal hygiene items (i.e. dentures, toothbrushes, hearing aids), clothing and medications should be given to the unit nurse.

Where can I park?

Free 1-hour street parking is available around the centre for both Staff and Visitors. Paid parking is available in the Visitor Parking Lot on the east side of the building and in the Staff Parking Lot on the south side of Portage Avenue. 

Visitor Parking Rates (all prices include GST):

Who can I connect with if I have questions or concerns about my loved one?

If Patients, Residents or Family Members have questions regarding care that can’t be answered by the health care team, please contact the Manager of Patient/ Resident Care. If you continue to have concerns after your discussion with the Patient/ Resident Care Manager, you may also contact our Client Relations Coordinator at 204-831-2963 or email us at [email protected].

Communication with family and friends is essential to patient and resident well-being so please:

• Connect by phone or video chat.   
• Send electronic letters to a patient or resident via our “Well Wishes” page.
• Schedule Virtual Visits through our Family Connect Program. The DLC Family Connect Program has been put in place for those of our patients and residents who do not have access to technology to have scheduled virtual visits (i.e. video chats) with loved ones.