UW Medicine’s patient care philosophy depends greatly on engaging families in the healing process. However, due to the recent and rapid increases in COVID-19 cases in our community, we are imposing new restrictions on visitors for your safety and the safety of our patients.
Beginning Wednesday, Nov. 18, 2020, we are restricting visitation within our UW Medicine hospitals and clinics. All routine visiting is suspended until the transmission of COVID-19 is no longer a threat. Visitation also is limited by each hospital’s policies.
We recognize that there are times when having a visitor or family member present is crucial. In these cases, visitors will be allowed based on the exception criteria outlined in our revised policy and in the patient letter that we are sending today.
When visitors are allowed, they must follow our masking requirements and cannot have tested positive or have been in contact with anyone who tested positive for COVID-19 within the last 14 days. Visitors will also be screened upon entry and will only be allowed if they do not have symptoms of COVID-19.
Please talk with your manager or supervisor if you have questions. We continue to look forward to the day when all routine visiting can resume.
Sincerely,
Lisa Brandenburg
President, UW Medicine Hospitals & Clinics
Vice President for Medical Affairs
University of Washington
Timothy H. Dellit, MD
Chief Medical Officer, UW Medicine
Vice President for Medical Affairs,
University of Washington, and
President, UW Physicians
