Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey has made changes to hospital visitation policies set last year during the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The most noticeable change is that each patient will now be permitted two family members or friends or two caregivers at one time in patient rooms (exceptions apply).

There is no maximum number a patient may have per day, however, only two are allowed to visit at a given time.

Visitors will be required to adhere to the following guidelines and those who do not meet these guidelines will not be permitted.

•All visitors will be required to be masked and have their temperature screened upon entrance.

•All visitors should maintain hand hygiene and appropriate social distancing.

•All visitors should remain in the patient’s room.

•Clergy are allowed visitation upon request.

•Cafeterias will be available to visitors for to-go service only and food must be consumed in patient rooms. Employees may use the cafeterias for dine-in service.

Visitation Hours at Mobile Infirmary, Infirmary Long Term Acute Care Hospital, Thomas Hospital, North Baldwin Infirmary and Oakwood Center for Living are as follows:

•Non-ICU: 8 a.m. – 6 p.m.

•ICU/LTACH: 9 – 11 a.m. & 4 – 6 p.m.

•Senior Behavioral Health Visitation will be permitted by appointment only

•For COVID-19 positive patients, no visitors unless it is an end of life situation or special circumstances as approved by Hospital Leadership

•No overnight visitation is allowed unless approved by hospital leadership.

Visitation hours at J.L. Bedsole/Rotary Rehabilitation Hospital and Colony Rehabilitation Hospital

•Monday – Saturday 4 – 6 p.m., Sunday 8 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Additional restrictions, per site:

Rotary Rehabilitation

•Two family members or friends per patient.

Labor & Delivery

•Two support people per patient.

Nursery

•Mother of patient and two support people.

Pediatrics

•Two parents or guardians at all times.

Outpatient Procedures

•One family member or friend is allowed for outpatient procedures.

Emergency Departments

•Two family members or friends will be allowed once the patient has been assigned in room.

Surgical Procedures

•One caregiver (meeting the above requirements) may accompany the patient to assist with entry into the hospital and registration.

End-of-Life Guidance/ Inpatient Hospice

•For non-COVID-19 patients in which death is reasonably anticipated within 24-48 hours, two caregivers (meeting the above requirements) will be allowed at the bedside

-Caregivers may rotate with other caregivers

-Caregivers will be required to follow all instructions from clinical staff related to hand washing, PPE, entry/exit, length of time with patient, etc.