Hillsdale Hospital has reinstated its pre-pandemic visiting policy due to the decrease in COVID-19 patients.
Rachel Lott, director of marketing and development, said as of March 23 there have been 12 consecutive days of no COVID-19 patients at the hospital. This is great news for the community, and it means that people are not getting sick like they were before, she said.
“So now at this point, we’re returning to our pre-pandemic visitor policy that we used to have in place, which is up to two visitors per patient,” Lott said.
Visiting restrictions are only put in place when absolutely necessary, and they are never meant to be permanent, but to protect the vulnerable in times of rising sickness, Lott said.
“It takes a lot of strain and stress off of our staff, which is also wonderful. They’ve been working very hard for the last two years,” Lott said.
The number of visitors allowed during visiting hours will return to normal in all areas of the hospital with the exception of the Bediako Birthing Center, Lott said in a press release. Even though there is a decrease in COVID-19 cases, every year they limit visiting for the birthing center due to a rise in respiratory illnesses and influenza. The birthing center allows two adults for support who can be present during the entire duration of stay, and two healthy grandparents who are allowed to visit between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m., Lott explained.
“Visiting hours is something we do only when absolutely necessary to protect our patients and keep them safe when they’re already in a sick and vulnerable position,” Lott said.
Having friends and family being able to be present with patients can have a great effect on the impact of one’s health. Both emotionally and mentally it is critical to have a familiar support system present to have the best possible outcomes healthwise, according to Lott.
“Family members of patients can now be more involved in the care they will have the ability to more directly communicate with the nurses and our physicians who are taking care of individuals,” Lott said.
Lott also said in the press release that the gift shop is now open to the public and is excited to welcome back the public.
“To see those numbers go down, it’s very reassuring and very positive for the hospital and our community,” Lott said.