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Office of Public Affairs
Media Relations
Washington, DC 20420
(202) 461-7600 www.va.gov
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 24, 2022
VHA Implements COVID-19 Health Protection Levels to Enhance Safety of Veterans, Visitors and Employees
Wilkes-Barre, PA — Today, the Wilkes-Barre VA Medical Center and our Community Based Outpatient Clinics are implementing COVID-19 Health Protection Levels as part VA’s consistent, nationwide approach for Veterans Health Administration (VHA) facilities to adjust COVID-19 safety protocols locally as needed.
The three VHA COVID-19 Health Protection Levels – low, medium, and high – align with CDC’s Community Transmission levels, which are based on new COVID cases and percentage of positive tests.
Starting this week, the Wilkes-Barre VA and all CBOC locations are at level High. The VHA COVID-19 Health Protection Level will be updated as needed on Mondays.
“Our local Veterans are resolute about receiving their care at our facility and we want to keep them safe during the ups and downs of COVID-19 community spread,” said Wilkes-Barre VA director Mr. Russell Lloyd. “Instead of increasing or decreasing access to care, safety protocols will be adjusted based on COVID-19 levels in the community.”
Masks are required regardless of the level, but requirements for self-screening, visitation, and physical distancing vary:
High:
- Masks are required
- Screenings will be performed by staff at the entrance.
- Care team-approved visitors only
- Physical distancing is required
Please visit the Wilkes-Barre VA website at https://www.va.gov/wilkes-barre-health-care/ or call 570-824-3521 for current protection levels before your next visit. If patients or visitors are heading to a VA facility in another county, they should check with that health facility to determine the facility’s VHA COVID-19 Health Protection Level.
Visit www.va.gov/coronavirus-veteran-frequently-asked-questions/ for questions and answers regarding the VHA COVID-19 Health Protection Levels. For more information, please contact John Baloga at John.Baloga@va.gov or 570-824-3521 Ext. 24756
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