CaringBridge, a solution to keep patients from feeling isolated during hospital stays

Hospitals are placing higher restrictions on their visitation policies due to the threat of H1N1. While this helps reduce exposure to the virus, it also means that patients will see less of their family and friends, increasing their feeling of isolation.

CaringBridge, a nonprofit providing free Web sites that connect loved ones during a serious health event, is the solution to keeping patients from feeling isolated during hospital stays. Patients can create their own virtual hospital room on www.CaringBridge.org where family and friends can gather to exchange health updates, love and support. Setting up a secure CaringBridge Web site takes just a few minutes.

“It’s really important for patients to stay connected with their family and friends while they are in the hospital,” said Bradley Beard, president, Fairview Southdale Hospital, Edina, Minn. “We recommend CaringBridge to our patients as an alternative to in-person visits – especially now that we’ve increased visitation restrictions.”

Since 1997, more than 170,000 CaringBridge Web sites have been created. “Although CaringBridge is primarily used during health events such as cancer, premature birth and serious injury, it also serves as an excellent solution to any situation where physical access to hospitals and patients is restricted,” said Sona Mehring, founder and executive director, CaringBridge. “Recommending CaringBridge is a great way for hospitals to maintain patient satisfaction while they limit visitors.”

Free resources are available to help health care facilities inform patients of this alternative to in-person visits.