Bay Pines VA's Aug. 29 Update: COVID-19 Health Protection Levels

Dear Veteran,

As part VA’s consistent, nationwide approach for Veterans Health Administration (VHA) facilities to adjust COVID-19 safety protocols locally as needed, the Bay Pines VA Healthcare System is implementing COVID-19 Health Protection Levels.

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.

As of Aug. 29, our facilities are at level High. The VHA COVID-19 Health Protection Level will be updated as needed each Monday.

Masks are required regardless of the level, but requirements for self-screening, visitation, and physical distancing vary:

Low:

1. Everyone must wear a mask
2. We may institute self-screening for COVID-19 symptoms at the entrance
3. Physical distancing is not required
4. Visitation is not restricted except for at the Community Living Center (CLC). If you reside in the CLC, ask your care team who may visit

Medium:

1. Everyone must wear a mask
2. We may institute self-screening for COVID-19 symptoms at the entrance
3. Physical distancing is required
4. Inpatient visitation limited. Please visit https://www.va.gov/bay-pines-health-care/policies/ for more information

High:

1. Everyone must wear a mask
2. We may screen you for COVID-19 symptoms at the entrance
3. Physical distancing is required
4. Inpatient visitation limited. Please visit https://www.va.gov/bay-pines-health-care/policies/ for more information

Visitation is currently open at the CWBY main campus, Lee County Healthcare Center, and all Community-Based Outpatient Clinics. This guidance applies to all areas at CWBY except the Community Living Center and Hospice, which remain on a phased visitation plan. Visitation restrictions are subject to change depending on the community positivity rates.

If you are experiencing symptoms such as a cough, runny/stuffy nose, fatigue, sore throat, headache, muscle pain, fever, or sneezing, call the VISN 8 Clinical Contact Center (877-741-3400) first – before visiting a hospital or clinic. Our clinicians are available 24/7 to address your concerns, help you schedule a virtual appointment with a licensed health care professional, and assist if you need to get tested for COVID-19. Please visit https://www.va.gov/bay-pines-health-care/locations/ or call 727-368-6661 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.

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