The Peru Gazette

Changes reflect data, shifting status of pandemic 

MALONE/PLATTSBURGH, NY (04/18/2023) – The University of Vermont Health Network – Alice Hyde Medical Center (AHMC) and The University of Vermont Health Network – Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital (CVPH) are rolling back COVID-era masking requirements for patients, visitors and employees in most settings.

Beginning tomorrow, April 19, the hospitals will make masking optional for staff while they are in public areas and optional for patients and visitors in all areas. Anyone who has COVID-19-like symptoms, including but not limited to fever, cough, shortness of breath, chills, loss of taste or smell, or diarrhea, will be required to wear a mask. Employees continue to be required to wear masks while in patient rooms, exam rooms, and while providing direct patient care.

“We strongly encourage immunocompromised individuals to continue wearing masks while they are with us. And we respect that patients may have safety concerns, so our staff will wear a mask in public areas when asked by a patient,” Chief Quality and Safety Officer Brenda Murphy, BSN, RN, CNML, CMSRN said.

Free surgical/procedural masks will remain available at entrances for both hospitals. 

Pre-procedure/Pre-Admission COVID-19 Testing Policy Update

Also starting tomorrow, AHMC and CVPH will no longer require asymptomatic patients (those who do not have COVID symptoms) to be tested for COVID-19 before their procedure or admission. Officials from the two healthcare facilities are asking anyone who develops symptoms of the virus within a few days of their scheduled procedure to contact their provider.

Officials added the revisions were made in accordance with New York State Department of Health guidelines and in consultation with clinical leaders and the infection prevention teams at AHMC and CVPH.

Detailed information on updates to masking and visitation policies can be found on the hospital websites:

• AHMC
• CVPH

“Masking and testing have been crucial elements of our response to COVID-19 over the past three years. Masking in particular was an easy and effective way to protect our patients and staff during the height of the pandemic,” Murphy offered. “COVID-19 looks and feels much different now. Like anything else in healthcare, when the situation changes, we evolve. In staying true to our core principles of following the data and the science, it makes sense to shift our strategy while always maintaining our focus on what is best for our patients, our staff and the community. Personally, I’m looking forward to seeing all of the smiles again from patients, their loved ones visiting us, and my colleagues.”