CARBONDALE – Southern Illinois Healthcare (SIH) announced Sunday in a release a no-visitor policy for patients hospitalized in their facilities across the region due to concerns about the spread of COVID-19.

The decision was effective immediately, and done in the “best interest of our patients,” according to the organization.

Some exceptions were noted:
⦁ Birthing Center patients may have one dedicated support person.
⦁ Pediatric/Special Care Nursery patients may have one parent/guardian at a time.
⦁ Patients with behavioral health, developmental delays or altered mental status for whom a family member or caregiver is integral to their care or safety may have one dedicated support person.
⦁ Patients in the Emergency Department may have one dedicated support person.
⦁ Patients at end-of-life may have one dedicated support person.
⦁ Other considerations made on a case-by-case basis when essential to ensure the emotional well-being and care of the patient. The house supervisor would clear this.

All visitors admitted to SIH facilities will need to undergo a temperature check and COVID-19 screening upon entry. Visitors will not be allowed to enter if they have fever, respiratory symptoms or exposure risk. Those under age 18 will not be permitted as well.