Piedmont Healthcare restricting visitors amid coronavirus pandemic

ATLANTA — Piedmont Healthcare announced it will limit visitors at all 11 hospitals in response to the coronavirus pandemic.

No more than two visitors will be allowed per patient and no children ages 13 and under (except kids getting health care) will be allowed at hospitals.

All hospital visitor entrances will be closed except for designated areas. Visitors will have to pass a health screening to get inside.

Visitors with fever, cough, sore throat or flu-like symptoms or who recently traveled outside the country will not be admitted.

Visitors who are allowed inside will have to wear an armband or sticker to to signify they have been screened. Hospital officials will also monitor waiting rooms and common areas to makes sure people aren’t gathering.

“The COVID-19 pandemic is evolving rapidly and we as a health system also must react rapidly to protect our patients and our employees,” said Piedmont Healthcare Chief Medical Officer Dr. Leigh Hamby. “Safety is at the center of our organization and we believe these steps are necessary to create the safest environment at our hospitals.”

Hospital officials are encouraging people to use electronic devices to communicate with patients who are hospitalized.

MORE CORONAVIRUS IN GEORGIA:

• Atlanta mayor declares state of emergency, bans crowds over 250 people
• Atlanta-based Chick-Fil-A to close dining room seating
• Coronavirus trial vaccine to be tested Monday

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