GEORGETOWOWN, Ky. (LEX 18) — Many hospitals across the country are going to a no visitor policy to try and stop the spread of COVID 19. Georgetown Community Hospital implemented a zero-visitor protocol effective March 26th until further notice.
Georgetown Community Hospital is owned by Lifepoint of Central Kentucky which also operates hospitals in Winchester, Paris and Versailles. All four hospitals are following the same zero-visitor policy.
William Haugh, CEO of Georgetown Community Hospital and market president for Lifepoint of Central Kentucky, said there are exceptions.
"For obstetrics, it's got to be the significant other and for pediatrics it has to be the guardian or the parent, it's not just anybody." said Haugh.
OB patients may have one WELL partner over the age of 16 accompany them. Patients who are at the end-of-life may have up to two WELL visitors, including one WELL clergy member, if requested.
There are also exceptions for patients undergoing surgery or life-threatening emergencies. Haugh asks family and friends of emergency department patients to stay at home or in the car.
Haugh spoke to LEX 18 over Zoom video Friday saying, "We just need to do all we can to prevent the community spread."
He says anyone entering any of the hospitals will be screened.
"If you do have a temperature or you're determined to be at-risk, then you will be asked to not come in to the building. It's the right thing to do." said Haugh.
