Stony Brook Hospital System Restricts Visitation Due To COVID-19

STONY BROOK, NY — Stony Brook Hospital system has restricted its in-person visitation policy, taking into consideration the increase in COVID-19 numbers in Suffolk, according to a policy statement on its website.

The policy went into effect on Tuesday at Stony Brook University, Stony Brook Southamption, and Stony Brook Eastern Long Island hospitals. Visitors are no longer permitted inside the emergency department at Stony Brook Southampton.

"Safety for our patients, their loved ones and our staff is our top priority," the statent read. "Given the high incidence of COVID-19 in our area, we are restricting in-person visitation at this time."

Under New York State Department of Health guidelines, support persons are still allowed for patients involved in labor and delivery, as well as for pediatric patients. Patients whose support person is deemed "essential" to their care are also approved to visit with them, the policy states.

The conditions include that the support must be deemed "medically necessary," and people who care for those with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities, as well as patients with cognitive impairments, including dementia fall under the criteria.

People who provide support for patients in imminent end-of-life situations or who need compassionate care, as well as patients in surgical and procedural areas during the intake process, are also included.

However, support persons who wish to qualify, under state guidelines, must provide proof of a COVID-19 vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test within 72 hours of the visit. The results from a self-administered COVID-19 test or positive antibody test will not be accepted by the hospital system.

Support persons must also wear a mask, and must adhere to screening, hand washing, and infection control guidelines. Mask must be worn at all times — including in the patient’s room —and no eating or drinking is allowed in a patient’s room.

"We know that visits from family members and friends are important part of patient care and understand the tremendous impact they have in the healing process of patients," Stony Brook Medicine officials said in the policy statement. "We are continuously assessing the situation and will make any updates as events change."

"We realize that this is an extremely challenging time for you and your loved ones in the hospital and appreciate your understanding so that we can ensure a safe environment for our patients, staff and the community," officials said.

Anyone who cannot be with their loved one, were urged to connect with the patient by bedside phone, cell phone, FaceTime or other means. Anyone with questions, can contact the Department of Patient Advocacy at (631) 444-2880.

"Thank you for your support in helping us to provide a safe and healing environment for everyone," the statement concluded.