WMCHealth updates visitation guidelines at network hospitals

Updated visitation guidelines are going into effect at all Westchester Medical Center Health Network (WMCHealth) hospitals that enable patient visitation for up to two support persons, designated by the patient or healthcare proxy.

WMCHealth worked closely with the New York State Department of Health on the visitation update, which is in alignment with all state guidelines and helps ensure the safety of patients, their caregivers, workforce member and the community.

Please visit each hospital’s website for additional visitation information and the most current updates. The new visitation guidelines began Friday, June 19, at

· Medical Center;

· Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital;

· The Behavioral Health Center (pediatrics);

· Secours Community Hospital;

· Good Samaritan Hospital;

· Hospital;

· Regional Hospital; and

· St. Anthony Community Hospital.

The new guidelines begin at HealthAlliance Hospital: Broadway Campus and HealthAlliance Hospital: Mary’s Avenue Campus on June 22, and the Behavioral Health Center (adults) on June 23.

WMCHealth visitation guidelines:

· All designated support persons must be 18 years of age or older. Visitation by those 70 years of age and older is cautioned.

· Patient visitation can occur between 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. only.

· One support person per non-COVID-19 patient per day for up to four consecutive hours.

· Visitation for patients on COVID-19 isolation must be scheduled and will be limited for up to two consecutive hours daily.

· Visitation for immuno-compromised patients requires clinician approval and is limited up to four consecutive hours per day, if granted.

· One support person will be able to accompany patients during emergency room care, and during intake and discharge for ambulatory surgeries and procedures.

Additional safety guidelines:

· For the safety of patients, their designated support persons and WMCHealth workforce members, all visitors will be screened upon arrival for possible COVID-19 exposure, symptoms and fever.

· Entry will be denied if the screening test is not passed.

· Visitors must remain in patient rooms at all times and visitors will be asked to leave the campus when the visitation period has concluded.

· Exceptions for end-of-life or extenuating circumstances can be made by unit leaders and nursing supervisors only and must be scheduled.

For more information, visit WMCHealth.org.