Please help spread the word: There’s no change to Intermountain’s policy requiring masks in our facilities despite the April 10 expiration of Utah’s statewide mask mandate.
“Not enough people are vaccinated and immune from COVID-19 in our communities to fully protect each other, including vulnerable individuals, from COVID-19 infection,” says Eddie Stenehjem, MD, infectious diseases specialist. “We need to still be vigilant and mask, particularly in healthcare facilities, to keep each other safe.”
More information about our mask requirement:
- Intermountain requires everyone to mask in our facilities for the safety of caregivers, patients, and visitors.
- We’ll continue to do everything possible to help our patients heal and keep healthcare workers healthy and able to take care of patients.
- People vaccinated or recently recovered from COVID-19 might still be able to spread the virus to others who aren’t yet vaccinated or immune and who could get sick.
- Masking will be required while COVID-19 rates are still high in our communities, and until more people are vaccinated and immune from COVID-19.
Intermountain doesn’t allow visitors into our facilities who won’t mask. Patients refusing to mask for personal reasons will be managed by the department or unit appropriately. For example, they could be escorted rapidly to an ED for emergency needs, escorted rapidly to a patient room and assessed and treated based on acuity and safety risk, or arranged for virtual or postponed care. Scripting will be provided this week to greeters and screeners, Security, and other staff. If you encounter disruptive, alarming, or threatening behaviors from individuals, please contact Security immediately.
Contact your local infection preventionist with any questions.
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