New visitor guidelines go into effect Monday, March 7, 2022

As the state's COVID positivity rate, specifically in Washington County, continues to decline, South County Health will relax some of its visitor guidelines effective Monday, March 7, 2022.

Beginning Monday, March 7, 2022, South County Hospital visiting hours will be 10 a.m. – 6 p.m., 7 days/week.

The revised visitation guidelines for the Hospital, Emergency Department, medical practices, and ambulatory care services are as follows:

• A maximum of two (2) visitors or support people will be allowed at a time. Patients do not need to designate visitors. COVID positive patients will not be allowed visitors or support persons.
• All non-patients will be screened for COVID-like symptoms, including temperature check and asking if visitors were diagnosed with COVID-19 in the past 20 days.
  • Temperature must be at or below 100.4 F degrees to enter the facility.
  • Visitors will not be allowed if they are within 20 days of recovery from COVID.
• Visitors will no longer need to show proof of COVID vaccination.
• All must wear a surgical grade mask while inside South County Health facilities. Masks will be available for those who need one.
• No age minimum for visitors.

Women and Newborn Care Unit

• Birthing mothers will be allowed two (2) designated support people, providing they meet the criteria above.
• Main support person will be allowed in with all pregnant patients, even if patient is not in active labor.

Surgical Services/Endoscopy

• One (1) visitor will be allowed to accompany a patient through pre-op and recovery for same day surgeries.

These revisions are being made to enhance the patient experience by accommodating family members and friends who want to visit or accompany patients on their medical visits.

We will continue to assess the positivity rates and make any further adjustments necessary to ensure the safety of our patients and staff.