In a brief press release, Methodist hospitals announced changes to its visitation policy which are intended to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. Generally, the new policy does not permit visitors to Methodist hospitals.

Exceptions may be made for the following:

• Maternity, postpartum and NICU patients may be allowed one health partner or parent visitor.
• Disabled patients may be allowed one healthy visitor.
• End-of-life patients may be allowed two healthy visitors at a time.
• Discharge patients may be allowed one healthy visitor to assist the patient in leaving the hospital.

“We encourage everyone to use electronic communication, such as a smartphone or video chat, in place of in-person visitation whenever possible. However, if a person feels an exception is needed, they can speak to a staff member,” the press release said.

Anyone in the emergency room at a Methodist campus to be screened for COVID-19 will not be permitted visitors.

Any exceptions to the zero visitors policy will need to answer questions regarding their health and have their temperature checked as they enter the facility. They will also be asked to wear a wristband.