Haywood Regional Medical Center (HRMC) announced that it is transitioning from a zero-visitation policy to a limited visitation policy as of February 9, 2021. New guidelines will allow one visitor per day for inpatients, the emergency room (ER) and Outpatient Care Center, as well as outpatients within the main hospital. General visitation hours will be 10:00 am – 4:00 pm. The updated restrictions have been implemented effective immediately.

“We understand how important visiting loved ones is for patients and guests alike,” shared Greg Caples, HRMC CEO. “We have been monitoring the COVID-19 positivity rate in Haywood and feel more comfortable in opening up our facility given the recent downturn. However, we will continue to monitor the region and adjust accordingly. We urge continued caution in the community as COVID-19 is still prevalent.”

Again, part of the updated visitor restrictions, inpatients, outpatients, and ER patients are now allowed 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 patients in isolation are not permitted visitor under these guidelines.

All visitors must be 18 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.

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.