JACKSON, Wyo. — St. John’s Health announced today it will restrict visitation to the hospital following an increase in COVID cases.
According to communications officer Karen Connelly, the new visitor policy measures that take effect August 6 are being implemented in order to help ensure the safety of patients, those supporting patients, providers, and staff.
“With the rising prevalence of COVID-19 in Teton County, additional restrictions are necessary for the health of patients and staff and to ensure we can keep our services and facilities open and available to the community,” Connelly said. “Leaders from nursing and throughout the organization evaluated various options for addressing a difficult situation. We agreed that this direction is necessary until there is improvement in COVID-19 public health metrics.”
Under the new general guidelines, visiting or accompanying St. John’s Health patients will not be allowed in inpatient, outpatient, emergency, physician offices, or ancillary facilities (lab, radiology, and cardiopulmonary) until further notice. This restriction applies to family, companions, partners, support persons, guardians, and caregivers. Staff is available to arrange a phone call or video visit to help you see or communicate with your loved one.
Waiting areas and Choices Café are not open to the public.
Even as restrictions are being put into place, there are several exceptions to the general guidelines to allow for special circumstances. All patients who are minors will have one parent or guardian. Patients in the Birth Center may have one companion for labor and one following delivery. A caregiver may be present, as necessary, if a patient needs help communicating or ambulating, and to receive any necessary trainings.
“While this will not be easy, we are committed to partnering with the community throughout this pandemic in order to keep our community as safe as possible,” said Marsha Sensat, chief nursing officer.
