May 19, 2020 - Sumner Regional Medical Center announced today that it is transitioning from a zero-visitor protocol to limited visitor restrictions as the hospital gradually resumes elective and non-urgent cases and services at its facilities. The decision was made as current projections continue to indicate a lower than expected volume of COVID-19 in the region and after careful review of state and federal guidance. The updated restrictions, which will now allow most patients to have one visitor or support person per day, have been implemented effective immediately.
"Our hospital's top priority is safeguarding the health and wellbeing of our patients, providers, employees and community," said Susan Peach, chief executive officer (CEO) of Sumner Regional Medical Center. "We continue to monitor closely the prevalence of the virus in our community as we adapt our operations to safely care for and support our patients, and we feel confident that it is safe to begin allowing limited visitors again at this time."
As part of the updated visitor restrictions, patients are now limited to one well visitor per day, between the hours of 10 am and 7 pm. A single visitor outside of these hours is allowed only for ER patients, surgical patients, labor and delivery patients, one support person for minors or special needs patients, and guests for end-of-life care. All visitors must be 13 years of age or older, will be screened upon entry and are required to provide and wear a mask and an armband while in the facility. Visitors who do not provide their own mask will not be allowed entry. Visitors do not pass the screening at entry will be asked to reschedule their visit until they are symptom-free. Visitors are not allowed for high-risk, isolation, immunocompromised or patients who are under observation or test positive for COVID-19.
Sumner Regional Medical Center continues to screen everyone who enters the facility for symptoms consistent with COVID-19, per CDC guidelines. For additional updates on how the hospital is working to maintain a safe and supportive environment during the COVID-19 pandemic, please visit MySumnerMedical.com.