Southern Arizona VA Health Care System (SAVAHCS) COVID-19 visitor guidelines

Veterans Health Administration sent this bulletin at 08/30/2021 01:15 PM EDT

Veterans,

In order to protect Veterans, staff, caregivers and visitors during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the Southern Arizona VA Health Care System (SAVAHCS) has implemented a limited visitor policy.

 

The following visitor guidelines are currently in place at all SAVAHCS healthcare facilities across southern Arizona:

 

  • There is a no visitor policy at our Community Living Center (CLC) due to the higher risk patients that reside in our CLC.
  • Only one adult family member or visitor will be allowed to visit at a time. Further limitations may be made on a case-by-case basis.
  • Video visits are encouraged (Zoom or Facetime). 
  • Children under the age of 18 years are not allowed entrance at this time, unless they are the designated caregiver. 
  • General visitation of inpatient Non-COVID Veterans will be allowed during daily visitation hours from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
  • General visitation for COVID positive patients remains prohibited.
  • Ambulatory visitation is restricted to one caregiver.
  • Further exceptions or restrictions may be made depending on individual circumstances.

 

SAVAHCS COVID-19 screening process: 

 

  • All visitors must be screened for COVID-19. The entry point for inpatient visitors will be limited to the Building 50 (North) entrance.
  • Visitors will be screened at the building entrance with COVID-19 screening questions
  • Visitor will be prohibited from entering SAVAHCS facilities if they report recent COVID-19 exposure or symptoms. 

 

COIVD-19 Infection Prevention Requirements:

 

  • Visitors are always required to wear a face mask while at all SAVAHCS health care facilities. 
  • Visitors will be given instructions regarding specific precautions they must take when visiting patients, including special considerations related to patients in isolation, requirements for hand-hygiene and personal protective apparel/equipment, and related information.

Thank you for choosing the Southern Arizona VA Health Care System for all your healthcare needs.