Essential Care Partner Program
The Essential Care Partner Program was developed to enhance collaboration between patients, families, and the health care team. The Program recognizes the important contributions families and caregivers make to healing and recovery. By formally involving Essential Care Partners, we strengthen communication, enhance patient experience, and create an environment where patients feel supported by both the people they trust and the professionals who care for them.
This program is currently only offered on the Acute Care for the Elderly (ACE) unit and Transitional Care Unit (TCU). The program will be expanded to more care areas in the coming months.
What Is an Essential Care Partner?
An Essential Care Partner (ECP) is a trusted family member, partner, or close friend chosen by the patient or their Substitute Decision Maker (SDM) to actively support the care journey. Unlike a visitor, an ECP provides emotional support, helps with communication, and assists with daily needs in partnership with the healthcare team. ECPs play a vital role in supporting safety, comfort, and overall wellbeing throughout the patient’s stay.
Becoming an Essential Care Partner
Patients who wish to designate an ECP — or family members who wish to be considered for the role — can speak with a member of the care team. Once an ECP is identified, they will receive orientation, support materials, and clear expectations to help them participate safely and effectively.
How Essential Care Partners Support Care
ECPs contribute in ways that are unique and meaningful to each patient. Examples include:
- Providing comfort, reassurance, and emotional support
- Helping the patient understand care plans, instructions, and next steps
- Assisting with mobility, orientation, or mealtime routines (as appropriate)
- Supporting decision-making by sharing the patient’s preferences, values, and goals
- Acting as a familiar, calming presence during stressful moments
ECPs work with clinical staff, not in place of them, to ensure care is safe, coordinated, and patient-centred.
Program Expectations & Responsibilities
To support a safe, respectful, and collaborative environment, ECPs are expected to:
- Follow all hospital guidelines, including infection prevention and safety rules
- Participate in required orientation or training
- Communicate regularly with the healthcare team
- Stay within designated hours or spaces, unless approved for exceptions
- Respect patient privacy and confidentiality
Our team will ensure ECPs feel prepared and supported in their role.
Infection Prevention & Safety
Keeping patients, families, and staff safe is our priority. ECPs must follow all infection-prevention practices, which may include:
- Hand hygiene
- Masking when required
- Screening procedures
- Proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE)
- Staying home when feeling unwell
Training and guidance are provided to ensure ECPs feel confident and informed.
Contact Us
To learn more about the Essential Care Partner Program or for assistance, please connect with the Patient Experience and Volunteer Resources team.
Email: patientexperience@southlake.ca
Phone: 905-895-4521 Ext: 2104
Information and Resources
Program information
Forms and resources
- Essential Care Partner – Request Form
- Essential Care Partner – Commitment Form
- Essential Care Partner – Approval Process
- Healthcare Journey Binder