Ascension St. Vincent’s changing visitation policy due to rise in COVID cases

Jacksonville FL — Thursday, Ascension St. Vincent’s announced changes to its visitation policy. The health system says due to the rise in COVID-19 cases in the Northeast Florida area, it’s having to make this change. The following changes were announced.

• In-Patient Adults: No visitors unless deemed necessary by the patient’s nursing staff.
• Labor and Delivery: One designated visitor per patient. A doula may also be allowed as needed.
• Emergency Department: For adults, no visitors unless deemed necessary by nursing staff. For pediatrics (minors), up to two designated visitors per patient. The visitors must be the patient’s parents or guardians.
• End-Of-Life/Hospice: Two designated visitors will be permitted. Visits will be arranged by the patient’s nursing team.
• Outpatient Imaging & Procedural Areas: No visitors for adult patients who do not need assistance. If a patient needs assistance, one visitor is permitted. For pediatrics (minors), one designated visitor per patient is permitted, but they must be the patient’s parent or guardian.

Were told all visitors will be required to complete a health screening before entering and masks will have to be worn all the time regardless of vaccination status. Also, visitors who have had a known COVID-19 exposure, have tested positive, or have a pending COVID test cannot visit unless there are extenuating circumstances and the patient’s care team approves the visit.

Ascension St. Vincent’s says it’s continually updating health and safety protocols and policies during this evolving situation.

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