Admission Policy
- 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.
- A child who is an outpatient or recovering from treatment at a Buffalo hospital may stay at the Ronald McDonald House of Buffalo, but an adult family member must accompany the child at all times at the House.
- 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, Swine Flu, MRSA).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.
- 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.
- A Letter of Medical Necessity must be presented upon check-in. This is a note on hospital stationery stating that it is necessary for parents to stay at the House to be near their children. It must include the reason for hospitalization and the initial date of admission or treatment.
- Family members of pediatric patients who receive Social Services benefits are required to bring a copy of their current Social Services card. This allows the Ronald McDonald House to be reimbursed by Social Services, so the family won’t be asked to make the $15 per room per night donation.
- Providing a safe and secure environment for guests is a high priority at the House. 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.
- Decisions on determining admission are at the discretion of the House Manager.