SLO County bans visits to hospitals and nursing homes due to coronavirus

San Luis Obispo County Public Health Officer Dr. Penny Borenstein issued an order Thursday prohibiting visits to healthcare facilities to protect vulnerable patients from coronavirus.

“We know people will want to visit their loved ones in the hospital or nursing home, but we all must take these necessary steps now to save lives in the days and weeks to come,” Borenstein said in a news release.

Borenstein said this will not be a large shift because many hospitals already have implemented restrictions on visits due to COVID-19.

Tenet and Dignity hospitals had already reduced visits to one visitor per patient per day, while also adding age restrictions. Compass Health nursing facilities had asked all family members to avoid visitations.

But now, it is mandatory across the county.

The order says all “non-essential” visitors will not be allowed to visit with patients, with a few exceptions. Visitors and non-essential personnel are employees, contractors or members of the public who do not perform treatment, maintenance, support, or administrative tasks deemed essential to the facility, according to the release.

Borenstein said exceptions include visits with children and end-of-life care patients. She also said women in labor may have their partner with them.

People visiting for urgent health, legal or other issues are permitted under the order but must follow requirements of COVID-19 guidance, according to the release. Other exceptions will be made on a case-by-case basis and would be limited to one visitor per patient.

This order applies to all hospitals, including general acute are and psychiatric facilities, skilled nursing facilities and intermediate care facilities. It also applies to assisted care living programs, residential care facilities, youth care living facilities, nursing homes and independent housing with case management services.

Violation of or failure to comply with the order is a misdemeanor and will be punishable by fine, imprisonment, or both, according to the order.

This story was originally published March 26, 2020 at 5:55 PM.