Each inpatient unit has its own dining room space(s) that provide inpatients with a view of the outdoors and create an environment similar to mealtime experiences at home and in the community. This approach, called the Dining Room Model, offers patients and clients more flexibility and recognizes the importance of healthy, enjoyable food to overall health.
Where are meals served?
Meals are served in the Dining Room, with the exception of breakfast which is served in patient rooms for all units on Level 1, Heritage 2 and Lakeview 2. There may also be times when patients are unwell or for other care-related considerations, where eating in the Dining Room is not possible. In these situations, the patient/client and care team will determine the best option (e.g. tray service to the room).
Meals
All patient meals are prepared onsite at PCH by certified Red Seal Chefs. In response to Canada’s new Food Guide of Healthy Eating Recommendations, the Food and Nutrition Services Department introduced menu items that include plenty of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and protein (including plant-based proteins).
Patients are served three meals per day as well as an evening snack (more if your therapeutic diet requires it). Regular menu options are advertised on the digital screens in the dining rooms each day.
Should you be referred to see the Registered Dietitian, you will be visited for a clinical nutrition assessment and education. Your menu and snacks will be adjusted to meet your individual nutritional needs and the Logistics and Nutrition Assistants will guide you in making choices that are within your diet at mealtime.
Food sharing
While families and friends are encouraged to bring in homemade food to share with their loved one at any time, for safety reasons we ask that this food not be shared with other patients and clients. Should you wish to bring in food to share with other patients and clients, we ask that it come from a commercial grade kitchen (e.g. restaurant or bakery) in order to ensure safe food handling and preparation.
Before sharing commercially prepared food with other patients and clients, please check with the care team that food meets the dietary needs and restrictions of those you plan to share it with; what might be safe for one individual to eat may not be safe for someone else.
Meal times
Click here to view breakfast, lunch and dinner times for each inpatient unit at PCH.
For questions regarding the menu, or for specific dietary restrictions, please contact the Dietary Office at 613-544-4900 ext. 53600.
