Rutherfordton, NC  (June 1, 2020 ) – Rutherford Regional Health System announced today that it is transitioning from a zero-visitor protocol to limited visitor restrictions as the hospital gradually resumes elective and non-urgent cases and services at its facilities. The updated restrictions, which will now allow most patients to have one visitor or support person per day, have been implemented effective immediately.

“Our hospital’s top priority is safeguarding the health and wellbeing of our patients, providers, employees and community,” said Rebecca Segal, chief executive officer (CEO) of Rutherford Regional Health System. “We continue to monitor closely the prevalence of the virus in our community as we adapt our operations to safely care for and support our patients, and we feel confident that it is safe to begin allowing limited visitors again at this time.”

As part of the updated visitor restrictions, patients receiving care in the following areas: surgery, invasive procedures, ER visit or inpatient stays are now limited to one well visitor per day. All visitors must be 16 years of age or older, and will be screened upon entry. All visitors are required to wear a mask or cloth covering and should bring their own from home. Visitors that do not pass the screening at entry will be asked to reschedule their visit until they are symptom-free. Visitors are not allowed for high-risk, isolation, immunocompromised or patients who are under observation or test positive for COVID-19.

Rutherford Regional Health System continues to screen everyone who enters the facility for symptoms consistent with COVID-19, per CDC guidelines. For additional updates on how the hospital is working to maintain a safe and supportive environment during the COVID-19 pandemic, please visit MyRutherfordRegional.com