SMHC increases visitor restrictions

BIDDEFORD – Southern Maine Health Care is implementing temporary visitor restrictions that go in effect Wednesday.

The health care organization implemented restrictions in response to COVID-19 earlier this year at its Biddeford hospital and other locations, and have have placed new restrictions in response to the ongoing pandemic. The new restrictions are being enforced to prevent or limit community spread of the virus, according to SMHC officials.

SMHC outlined the new visitor guidelines in a press release Tuesday afternoon. Visiting hours are now limited to 3:00 to 6:00 p.m. Monday through Friday and 9:00 a.m. to noon on weekends.

Critical care patients are allowed two visitors daily and those in obstetrics are allowed one person – a significant other or coach- in labor and delivery area.

People in all other inpatient areas are allowed one visitor daily.

Stricter restrictions are applied to COVID-19 patients, who are not allowed visitors except for end of life.

No visitors are allowed in waiting rooms of the emergency department. Pediatric patients may be accompanied by two parents or guardians.

Patients coming for outpatient procedures should come or alone or arrange for a drop-off unless they need special assistance. Pediatric patients may be accompanied by two parents or guardians.

For more information, go to www.smhc.org .

Publisher Liz Gotthelf can be reached at newsdesk@sacobaynews.com.