As a result of rising positive COVID-19 Cases in Chippewa County, War Memorial Hospital in Sault Michigan is limiting visitors to the hospital. All patients and visitors (other than Emergency Department patients) will have to use the main doors in the registration area to enter the hospital and will be screened upon entry.
The full text of a release from the hospital follows.
SAULT SAINTE MARIE, MI – With an uptick in COVID-19 cases in Chippewa County, WMH will again be restricting visitors within the hospital facilities, effective Friday, October 16th. Therefore, restricted visitation is in effect for every individual entering the building, including family and friends and those seeking care. These locations include, but are not limited to, all WMH inpatient and outpatient facilities in all locations.
“Keeping our patients, staff and community safe and healthy is our top priority. War Memorial’s patient care philosophy depends greatly on engaging families to be present as part of the healing process. Making the decision to restrict visitation and limit family presence was difficult and made only after careful consideration.” said David Jahn, WMH President & CEO
All patients and visitors (except Emergency Department patients) will be required to enter through the main registration area (South/valet entrance or from the overhead walkway from the city parking structure). This entrance will be open Monday through Friday, 5 a.m. – 7:30 p.m. and Saturdays 7:30 a.m. – 7 p.m. For access to emergency care, the WMH Emergency Department entrance will remain open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The main entrance is closed on Sundays.
Exceptions to the visitor restrictions include:
- Parent or Guardian 21 years of age or younger
- Durable Power of Attorney (DPOA)
- Legal Guardian
- End of life, critical condition, or hospice care (pre-arranged)
- OB Delivery – 1 healthy support person
- OB Ultrasound – 1 healthy support person
Individuals entering the main building will be screened upon entry. After screening, all individuals are required to wear a mask. Anyone refusing to be screened or refusing to wear a mask will not be allowed to enter the facility.
WMH understands that connecting with family members is incredibly important, and there are a variety of other ways to consider connecting. We encourage connecting digitally when possible to connect such as telephone, email, text or through Skype or Facebook.
Restrictions are subject to change. Please visit the WMH website or Facebook page for the most up to date info.