Mercyhealth eases visitor guidelines as coronavirus cases drop

ROCKFORD (WREX) — Mercyhealth has loosened its visitor guidelines today as the number of coronavirus cases and hospitalizations continue on a downward trend.

The loosened restrictions applies to both hospitals and clinics.

Here's a look at what changes:

Hospitals: Non-COVID Patient Visitors (upon approval)

• One visitor per day:
  • Adult inpatients
  • Adult outpatients undergoing surgery/procedure
  • Emergency Department
  • Women in labor and/or recovering – women in labor may also have one doula, midwife or birthing coach (certification required)
  • Exceptions maybe made during special circumstances, including end of life
• Two visitors per day:
  • Pediatric and NICU patients
  • COVID Patient Visitors

Visitor restrictions remain in place. Arrangements after approval from the care team will be made individually for each patient.

Clinics

• One visitor may accompany patient.

Mercyhealth returns to its visiting hour schedule, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., 7 days per week.

All visitors must:

• Be 18 years of age or older.
• Screen negative at our facility entrance for fever and be asymptomatic of flu-like and other respiratory-related symptoms. If you are experiencing fever or other symptoms, please do not enter the hospital or clinic as a visitor.
• Wear a mask at all times, and maintain social distancing.
• Wash hands when entering and leaving rooms.
• Leave directly after visiting the patient room.

Mercyhealth will continue to modify guidelines as circumstances continue to change.