As one of the next steps in the COVID-19 Moving Forward plan, the Veterans Healthcare Administration (VHA) has reviewed and relaxed masking requirements when Health Protection Levels are Medium and Low.
Facilities in geographic areas that are not experiencing HIGH levels of infection may adopt more lenient masking policies. The geographic area where Erie VAMC and our county clinics are located, currently remain in the HIGH protection level.
Erie VAMC leadership is conducting a risk assessment of its facilities to relax masking policies. Pending the results of the assessment, universal masking remains mandatory at all Erie VAMC facilities at this time.
The masking provision will be relaxed when protection levels drop to medium and low, and will be adjusted as needed with the increase of seasonal respiratory illnesses.
Regardless of health protection level or healthcare facility conditions, masking will still be required in high-risk areas such as chemotherapy units, acute inpatient medical/surgical units, intensive care units, post-transplant units, and dialysis units.
Masking will also be required at all times for individuals with suspected or confirmed COVID-19 or other viral respiratory infections. VHA will monitor any changes to CDC guidelines and update VHA COVID-19 guidelines as necessary.
Visit https://www.va.gov/coronavirus-veteran-frequently-asked-questions/ for more information regarding the VHA COVID-19 Health Protection Levels.
The health and safety of Veterans and staff is our top priority. This upholds VA’s ICARE values, respects patient preferences for care, and keeps Veterans at the center of VA’s efforts.
We appreciate your understanding and commitment to safety for patients, staff and the community.
The Erie VA Medical Center is hosting a town hall for Veterans on March 22, 2023 at 2:30 p.m.
Meet with John A. Gennaro, Executive Director - Erie VA Medical Center, and the executive leadership team as they share the latest Erie VAMC updates.
In addition, the leadership team will be joined by Jenny Willett, Veterans Benefits Administration - Pittsburgh Regional Office Assistant Director.
Q&A session immediately following the updates. Guests may join in person, via phone, or computer.
Click for DETAILS.
The PACT Act expanded VA health care and benefits for Veterans exposed to burn pits and other toxic substances.
If you are - or know - a Veteran who has not been screened for toxic exposure or has never received care at VA, contact VA about enrolling in the VA health care system and about obtaining a toxic exposure screening.
Learn more about the PACT Act by visiting VA.gov/PACT or calling 1-800-MYVA411.
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