Admission Policy

1. Priority is given to families who live outside of the 25 mile city of Buffalo radius and have a child being treated at an area hospital. The patient’s status must be confirmed by the hospital.
2. In some cases guests are outpatients or are recovering post operatively. An adult family member must accompany these guests at all times at the House.
3. Prior to check-in, the Ronald McDonald House will screen every guest by asking them questions regarding any exposure in the past 7-21 days to contagious diseases (chicken pox, measles, German measles or mumps).These diseases are extremely dangerous to pregnant women and newborns. No guests recently exposed to infectious disease or who may be susceptible to that disease will be allowed in the house.
4. Every guest at the Ronald McDonald House is asked prior to check-in if they are using electronic medical equipment. Portable medical equipment monitored by a family member is permitted. Any questions regarding this policy should be directed to the House Manager. Refrigerated medications must be kept in a locked medication box in the refrigerator or in a portable cooler in the guest’s room.
5. In order for the House to receive social services reimbursement, family members of pediatric patients who receive social service benefits are required to bring a letter (called Letter of Medical Necessity) from the patient’s doctor and a copy of their current social services card. A written statement must include the reason for hospitalization, the fact that the parents being at the hospital is medically necessary and the initial date of admission or treatment. If approved, the family is not asked to make the $15.00 per room per night donation, since the House expects reimbursement from social services.
6. Providing a safe and secure environment for guests is a high priority at the House. In order to do so, referring sources are requested NOT to refer guests with a history of violence, drug or alcohol abuse, or other problems that would place the families, staff, or volunteers in danger, or create disruption and stress for other families. If the referring staff member has questions regarding this policy, they are directed to contact the House Manager, prior to referring the family.
7. Decisions on determining admission are at the discretion of the House Manager.