Visitation Suspended At Lifespan Hospitals

PROVIDENCE, RI — Following Gov. Gina Raimondo's announcement Friday the visitation at Rhode Island's hospital and nursing homes will be restricted in the coming weeks, Lifespan announced Monday that, effective immediately, visitors will no longer be allowed at hospitals.

Exceptions will be offered in certain circumstances, and one parent will be allowed to accompany patients at Hasbro Children's Hospital. In addition, a birthing partner will be allowed in the maternity ward at Newport Hospital, and one adult will be allowed to accompany patients in hospital emergency departments.

The few visitors allowed into Lifespan hospitals will be screened for COVID-19 symptoms and will be required to wear a mask at all times.

"We have decided after great deliberation to take this step in these highly unusual circumstances to protect our patients and our workforce," CEO Timothy Babineau said. "We understand this is a great hardship to both patients and families, but we know that older and sicker people are most vulnerable to this novel coronavirus, and after careful evaluation of the evolving risks of transmission, we felt it was the most prudent thing to do."

Virtual visits via smartphone or video calls are encouraged to keep patients in touch with their families.

"Lifespan is committed to continually monitoring and evaluating the situation, and will continue to act in the best interest of our patients and employees," a statement from the company read in part. "We thank our patients and their loved ones for their understanding as we work to ensure a safe environment for our patients and our workforce."

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