Local health care systems restrict visitors

Springfield-area health care systems have enacted visitor restrictions and other precautions in response to the coronavirus pandemic.

CoxHealth, Mercy and Citizens Memorial Hospital are among organizations that have made announcements.

CoxHealth and Mercy yesterday both issued news releases indicating people under the age of 18 years old will not be permitted inside the organizations’ hospitals and clinics, with the exception of those seeking medical care.

“We understand this will be an inconvenience for some,” said Vicki Good, chief quality officer for Mercy’s central region, in a release. “But we know that putting restrictions like these in place will ultimately lead to fewer COVID-19 infections.”

At CMH, children ages 12 years old and younger who are not seeking medical treatment have been barred from visiting the organization’s hospital and clinics. People who are sick and not seeking medical treatment also are asked not to visit CMH facilities, according to a news release.

“The current COVID-19 outbreak in the U.S. means that it is critical that we take every precaution possible,” CMH CEO Gary Fulbright said in the release. “Protecting our patients, residents and employees’ health and safety is our top priority.”

The health care systems are following Centers for Diseases Control and Prevention guidelines recommending visitor restrictions.

Additionally, CoxHealth is offering free virtual evaluations for COVID-19, according to a news release.

The Springfield-Greene County Health Department previously announced a mobile testing unit would be launched today. It will not be open to the public and will require physician referrals.

SBJ is providing coronavirus coverage for free so that all readers have access. It is our desire to keep the business community informed of the most important news and guidance on the outbreak. Complete COVID-19 coverage can be accessed here.