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Due to increasing Omicron variant-related cases, ECMC has updated patient visitation guidelines, including suspending inpatient visitation except when medically necessary or for end-of-life circumstances
Due to an increasing inpatient census caused by the omicron coronavirus variant, Erie County Medical Center Corp. will suspend all inpatient visitation except when medically necessary, or for family members or legal representatives of patients in imminent end-of-life circumstances, beginning this Friday, Dec. 31.
A press release noted, “This restriction is being implemented in an effort to protect ECMC’s vulnerable patients and caregivers from avoidable exposure to infection. Similar to what is taking place in health care institutions throughout the region, state and country, ECMC is experiencing staffing shortages, and the updated patient visitation guidelines will help further protect ECMC’s frontline caregivers from the virus.
See the attached updated ECMC visitation guidelines (PDF).
In addition:
√ Any visitors meeting exceptions mentioned above will be required to wear a hospital-grade face mask and be screened for symptoms (cough, shortness of breath, or fever) or potential exposure to someone with COVID-19. The duration and number of visits will be minimized.
√ Patients and their families and loved ones have been advised to communicate via telephone and, when possible, via features such as FaceTime. ECMC will assist patients who do not have personal devices with technology requirements.