Haywood Regional Medical Center Eases Visitor Restrictions

Haywood Regional Medical Center (HRMC) 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 inpatients to have one visitor or support person per day, between 10:30 am – 4:30 pm, have been implemented effective immediately.

“Our hospital’s top priority is safeguarding the health and wellbeing of our patients, providers, employees and community,” said Chris Fensterle, interim chief executive officer (CEO) of HRMC. “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, inpatients are now limited to one well visitor per day, including continued allowance of one support person for obstetric patients. Exceptions are made for loved ones who are gravely ill. Visitors with signs/symptoms of respiratory illness will not be permitted to visit under this exception. Visitors/parents/guardians may be allowed when a patient requires mobility assistance, is a pediatric patient, is incapacitated or mentally incompetent. Note that prior set zero visitor restrictions are still in place for those having outpatient procedures, Emergency Department, Behavioral Health Unit, Urgent Care and providers/practices. All visitors should enter the facility through the main entrance.

All visitors must be 16 years of age or older, will be screened upon entry and are required to wear a mask or cloth face covering (and should bring their own from home). A dated armband (provided during screening) is also required while in the facility. Visitors who do not pass the screening at entry will be asked to reschedule their visit until they are symptom-free. Visitors are not allowed for patients in isolation.

HRMC 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 MyHaywoodRegional.com.