CHARLOTTESVILLE (WINA) – Just a couple of weeks after imposing some stricter visitation policies at UVa Health, starting Thursday they’re getting more restrictive. UVa Health’s Bush Bell says previously, patients could have 2 visitors — no matter whom — at their bedside from 8am to 9pm. Beginning Thursday, the patient must identify 2 designated visitors who can come to the bedside during those visiting hours over the duration of the stay. One can stay overnight at the bedside.
Patients in the ER and procedural areas can have one designated visitor beginning Thursday. The policy had been at 2 designated visitors. There are exceptions for end-of-life, mothers in labor, clergy visiting patients, and COVID patients.
All the changes are below in the UVa Health release:
“Here are the visitation policy changes:
• Inpatients and Transitional Care Hospital: Patients may identify two designated visitors, who will be the only visitors permitted during the patient’s stay. The one designated visitor at the bedside may change out between 8 a.m.-9 p.m., and one designated visitor may stay at the bedside overnight. Previously, patients could have an unlimited number of visitors, with two visitors permitted bedside. In addition, family lounges on inpatient floors are closed to visitors.
• Emergency Department and procedural areas: Patients may have one designated visitor (two designated visitors were permitted previously).
• Other public spaces at UVA Medical Center: Open only for patients, staff and designated visitors.
Visitation policies remain the same at outpatient clinics, where patients may have one designated visitor.
There are some exceptions to these visitation policies, including:
• Patients at the end of life: Two visitors may visit 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
• Mothers in labor: Two visitors may visit 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
• Clergy visiting inpatients: Clergy may be an additional visitor over the limit of two visitors.
• Patients under investigation for COVID-19, or COVID-19-positive patients: Visitors will not be permitted except for patients at the end of life; for pediatric patients; or if necessary for the safety or well-being of a patient with cognitive, behavioral or other special needs.
All visitors:
• Will be screened for COVID-19 symptoms and must be symptom-free and COVID-19 negative before entering UVA Health facilities.
• Must wear a mask at all times, including at patients’ bedsides.
• Must be 12 or older.
Questions?
Anyone with questions is asked to call ahead to 434.924.0000 or click here.
