MARIETTA – Memorial Health System is currently seeing an increase in patients with respiratory illnesses. To keep everyone safe—patients, visitors, and staff—new visitor restrictions have been put in place at all locations.
Here’s a quick rundown of the visitor guidelines:
- Up to two visitors can be with each patient.
- Visitors must be at least 18 years old and should feel well.
- Some exceptions apply, like for sibling visits on 3 West and for end-of-life care.
- Any minors allowed must be accompanied by an adult and show no signs of illness.
- Masks are encouraged but not mandatory.
There might be additional rules for specialized units and certain illnesses, too.
If you have mild to moderate respiratory symptoms, it’s best to see your primary care provider or visit a Physicians Care Express location in Belpre or Marietta. Research shows that non-life-threatening issues, like ear infections or mild colds, can often be treated more quickly in these clinics than in emergency rooms, especially during busy times.
However, if you’re having emergency symptoms—like difficulty breathing, severe chest pain, or persistent vomiting—it’s crucial to get to the nearest emergency department immediately. Memorial Health System prioritizes patients based on how urgent their medical needs are, not how long they’ve been waiting. Those in critical condition will always be seen first, meaning patients with less serious issues may face longer waits.
According to a recent survey by the American Hospital Association, hospitals across the country are reporting similar increases in respiratory cases. They emphasize the importance of using urgent care facilities when appropriate to keep emergency rooms less crowded. This allows more focus on critical care, which is vital in a health crisis.
As we move into colder months, many health experts recommend getting vaccinated for the flu and COVID-19. These vaccines can help reduce the spread of illnesses in our communities, relieving some pressure on our healthcare systems.
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