KDH announces a new barrier-free parking system

Kemptville District Hospital (KDH) is pleased to announce that its parking system is transitioning to a gateless entry system to improve the flow of traffic and simplify parking for all users.

The new ‘Scan to Pay’ format, set to launch on July 8, 2024, will ensure seamless entry and exit for all users and allow emergency vehicles direct, unobstructed access to the Emergency Department (ED).

The cost to park will be a $6 flat rate for up to 24 hours, one of the lowest daily rates in the region. There will be no charge for drop-offs and pick-ups using designated spaces.

“The most important benefit of this new parking system is that it will enable direct access for emergency vehicles to our ED,” explained Frank Vassallo, CEO. “With the previous system, there were occasional malfunctions resulting in ambulances stuck at the gates, waiting to get in or out of the parking lot. Patients and families also got stuck sometimes, and it understandably caused a huge amount of frustration. With the new gateless system, that will never happen again.”

“As with our previous system, the proceeds from the new parking system will be reinvested into patient care,” Vassallo added. “Parking revenues help us maintain programs and services for our local communities.”

How to use the new Scan to Pay system:

1. Enter the parking lot and park in an open space.
2. Note your license plate number.
3. Locate a Parking sign and use your cell phone camera to scan the QR code or send a text as indicated on the sign; follow instructions to pay the $6 flat rate, good for up to 24 hours:

• • Click on the link that pops up and a screen will appear to enable you to choose your length of stay and make a secure payment by debit/credit card, Google Pay or Apple Pay — no need to download an app or create an account.
  • You will be prompted to add your license plate number and email address.
  • Complete payment and proceed into the hospital.

Or, for those who prefer to pay by cash, a cash payment meter will be available in the ER entrance. Please note: the cash payment meter will only accept coins – exact change. An ATM will be located nearby along with a machine that changes paper bills into coins.

Sample of new KDH barrier-free parking system signage.

The previous longer-term rates will still be available: a 7-day/weekly rate ($25) and 30-day/monthly rate ($50).

A parking attendant will do hourly rounds to confirm by license plate number that parking has been paid.

Support throughout the transition:

We are grateful to our friendly and helpful KDH Auxiliary Volunteer Greeters who have signed up for extra shifts during the first week of the new parking system to provide support to patients, caregivers, friends and family with any questions or issues during the transition. We also have a dedicated parking attendant who will be able to help with parking on an ongoing basis.

Thank you for your patience as we implement this change. We value your feedback. If you have any comments or concerns, please contact kdh_parking@kdh.on.ca

About Kemptville District Hospital

Kemptville District Hospital (KDH) is an integrated health services organization serving the health needs of North Grenville, the eastern regions of the United Counties of Leeds and Grenville, and South Ottawa in partnership with other health care and community organizations in our region. KDH is part of an approved Ontario Health Team – Ottawa West Four Rivers – comprised of many community service providers as well as our primary care providers in the region. KDH provides 24-hour emergency care, inpatient care, surgical programs including advanced orthopedic surgery, and a wide variety of outpatient clinics. We are committed to our mission of ‘Building Healthier Communities’ based on a patient and family centered delivery model, collaborative partnerships, and employing the best technology available. KDH is a model of hospital-led integrated health services within the provincial health system.

For further information contact:

Jenny Read, Communications Officer

T: 613-258-6133 extension 225

Email: jeread@kdh.on.ca