Essentia Health is returning to pre-pandemic patient visitation in its hospitals and clinics as the prevalence of COVID-19 cases declines across the region.
The health care provider relaxed its visitor policy in May by allowing two adult visitors per patient across all clinic and hospital settings. Those restrictions were lifted Tuesday, July 6.
The decision was made carefully after evaluating several criteria, including the number of new COVID-19 cases locally and the percent of hospitalized patients, hospital officials said in a news release. These changes are based on the availability of space, so visitors may still be limited in certain units.
Masks are required among everyone within Essentia Health’s facilities, and the health care provider will continue to screen all patients and visitors for symptoms of COVID-19. Additionally, no outside food or beverages will be allowed.
Visitor restrictions remain in place for COVID-19-positive patients, as well as patients suspected to have COVID-19. Prior exceptions related to visitors for patients that require assistance with communication, personal-care issues and in end-of-life situations need to be approved by the team caring for the patient.
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For more information about Essentia Health’s visitor policy, visit https://bit.ly/3wiLoPh .
