Missouri Delta temporarily suspends its visitors

SIKESTON — With the COVID-19 pandemic announcement, Missouri Delta Medical Center is taking extra precautions to protect the health of patients, visitors and staff by temporarily suspending its visitors.

On Wednesday Missouri Delta Medical Center and Clinics temporarily suspended all visitors until the transmission of COVID-19 is no longer a threat to our patients, staff and community.

“Our patient care philosophy depends greatly on engaging families to be part of the healing process,” said CEO Jason Schrumpf. “The decision to restrict all patient visitors was difficult and made only after careful consideration. Missouri Delta will continue to take every precaution necessary for the safety of our community and will do our part in helping stop the spread of COVID-19.

Missouri Delta Medical Center recognizes there are times when having a visitor or family member present is crucial, he said. In these cases, visitors will be allowed based on the situations listed below. Please note these exceptions only apply if a visitor passes screening criteria at the check-point.

— Minors will be allowed one parent or legal guardian.

— Obstetric patients may have one support person to accompany them.

— End-of-life patients may have a very limited number of visitors who must remain in the room for the duration of the visit.

— Patients with altered mental or physical status may have one visitor who must stay in the room for the duration of the visit.

— Patients requiring a home caregiver to be trained must stay in the room for the duration of the visit.

— Patients undergoing surgery or procedures may have one visitor before and immediately after the procedure/surgery.

“Please remember that anything we can do to promote social distancing helps slow the potential spread of this virus and protect the most vulnerable in our communities. Your unwavering commitment to our patients during this difficult time is greatly appreciated,” Schrumpf said.

Entrances and Hours will be limited.

The Front (main) Lobby entrance hours will be limited to Monday through Friday from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m.

The Emergency Department will serve as the access entrance for Saturday and Sunday visiting hours, 8 a.m. to 5pm.

All visitors must check-in and be screened before entering the hospital.

Anyone who thinks they have have been exposed to COVID-19 and develop symptoms should contact their healthcare provider or the Missouri Department of Health Hotline 877-435-8411for medical advice.