Area hospitals to maintain visitor restrictions during Stage 5

EVANSVILLE, Ind. — A coalition of area hospitals announced it will not lighten current restrictions on visitors despite Indiana's recent statewide move to Stage 5 of the "Back on Track" reopening plan.

"COVID-19 infection and hospitalization rates in several local counties are currently at their highest point since the pandemic began," reads a news release from the Community Patient Safety Coalition of Southwestern Indiana/Kentucky. "Because of this, member hospitals of the Community Patient Safety Coalition will continue current visitor restrictions."

This coalition includes the following member hospitals: Ascension St. Vincent Evansville, Ascension St. Vincent Warrick, Ascension St. Vincent Orthopedic, Daviess Community Hospital, Deaconess Health System, Evansville Surgery Center, Gibson General Hospital, Good Samaritan Hospital, Encompass Health Deaconess Rehabilitation, Memorial Hospital and Health Center Jasper, Select Specialty Hospital and The Women's Hospital.

The news release states these hospitals are consulting with local and state health officials to manage resources and that adequate personal protective equipment is available and safety protocols remain in place despite current "high patient censuses" at some sites.

Each hospital has visitation policies posted on its individual website. Those who wish to visit one of the hospitals should consult that hospital's website or call ahead of time.