Providence tightens visitor policy, won’t allow hospital visitors, except in special cases
Providence St. Peter and Centralia hospitals will no longer allow visitors to its in-patient units because of coronavirus, Providence Health & Services of Southwest Washington announced.
The new visitor-limiting policy took effect at 8 p.m. Saturday.
“At this time, we encourage patients and their families to communicate through phone and video chat,” Providence officials said in a news release.
Exceptions may be made on a case-by-case basis for children admitted to the hospital, maternity units and patients receiving end-of-life care. For those exceptions, one visitor, 18 or older, will be allowed. They also must be either immediate family members, powers of attorney, guardians or patient representatives.
If the visitors show any cold, or flu-like symptoms, they will be asked to leave.
The hospitals also have consolidated entrance points and are screening patients and visitors at those locations.
No more than one adult visitor will be allowed at Providence outpatient clinics.
Providence also announced last week that it will close the day room and outdoor space of downtown Olympia’s Community Care Center, beginning Tuesday.
The Community Care Center is on State Avenue, across from the Intercity Transit Center.
Providence will continue to offer mental health and medication services at the care center, but will screen patients at the door for an appointment.
