Tower Health has updated its visitor policy to reflect the safe relaxation of COVID-19 restrictions. The new policy is effective beginning June 1, 2021.
“We are pleased to be able to welcome visitors back to our hospital,” said William M. Jennings, Reading Hospital President and CEO. “Family and friends play an important role in the recovery of our patients. Allowing families to be together in a safe and clean environment remains our goal.”
Per CDC and PA Department of Health guidelines, all visitors and employees are required to wear a mask and participate in temperature screenings upon entry to all Tower Health facilities.
Debra Powell, MD, Chief, Section of Infectious Diseases and Medical Director Infection Prevention at Reading Hospital said, “There are still cases of COVID-19 in our communities but these updates to our visitor policy are another reflection of the benefits of the COVID-19 vaccine. As more individuals receive a vaccine, the rate of COVID-19 cases and patients in our hospital continues to decline. It is so important that everyone eligible gets the vaccine and continues to wear their mask in designated areas, and practice proper hand hygiene.”
In hospital adult inpatient units, Visitation Hours, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.: No restrictions for medical and surgical units ICU/IMU units – two visitors at bedside. Visitors may be interchanged throughout the patient’s stay. Waiting room capacity will be limited to the available seating in the area.
In NICU, inpatient pediatric units: NICU – parents and guardians only, two visitors at bedside, 24 hours. Inpatients Pediatrics – two visitors at bedside. Parents and guardians are permitted, 24 hours; Grandparents permitted from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
In Maternity units: Two designated support persons per patient for the duration of the patient’s stay. Doulas are considered part of the care team and are permitted. OB Triage – one support person permitted
In emergency departments and psychiatric emergency departments: One visitor per patient. The waiting room capacity is 35.
At Reading Hospital Rehabilitation at Wyomissing: No visitors, except those deemed medically necessary, will be permitted. No children under the age of 18 or pets will be permitted.
Religious Services: No restrictions for non-Covid-19 patients. Patients who are suspected or confirmed to have COVID- 19 may receive religious services from clergy of their choice at any reasonable time if it can be provided without disruption to care.
Ambulatory Care Settings: In surgical and outpatient procedure departments: No restrictions for visitations. Waiting room capacity will be limited to the available seating.
In physician practices, urgent care practices, and ambulatory surgery locations: One designated support person is permitted.
Public Education Programs and Public Events:
Capacity is based on CDC guidelines, currently at 75 percent of room capacity.
Delivery of Food, Flowers, and other services: Flowers – Deliveries permitted at 5th Avenue Guest Services Attendant Desk. Items will be delivered to Patient Rooms by Visitor or Volunteer Services Monday through Friday 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Food – Visitors or team members may order and pick up food at any of our entrances. Other Goods – Deliveries are permitted at the 5th Avenue GSA Desk, and will be delivered to Patient Rooms by Visitor or Volunteer Services M-F 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. GSA to assist as able.
Medical Goods – Clinically necessary items will be delivered by CENTRAN or the Tube System.
