December 17, 2021
Community Update #21


Dear Community Member,

As you know, BMH providers and staff have worked tirelessly throughout the pandemic to adapt to the ongoing challenges brought about by COVID-19. The infection prevention steps we’ve taken so far have been extremely effective in terms of keeping patients and staff safe, and allowing BMH to continue meeting the healthcare needs of our community.
 
With the recent increase in COVID cases both here in Vermont and in nearby states, we have determined that additional measures are required in order to continue providing safe, appropriate care for our patients and staff. These changes were put into effect on Monday, December 6th, and I want to share them with you now:

Visitors are not permitted on the BMH campus except for the following exceptions:
  • Parents/guardians will be allowed for patients under the age of 18.
  • Patients in the Emergency Department may be accompanied by one essential support person.
  • Patients in labor may have one labor support person.
  • End of life patients will be allowed one clergy member and one visitor at a time.
  • Patients who are completely dependent may have one caretaker.
 
In addition, all individuals (including patients) will be required to wear a procedure mask for the duration of their stay on campus. Cloth masks will no longer be acceptable. If you come to the hospital wearing a cloth mask our staff will provide you with a new procedure mask to wear while you are here.
 
And last, the waiting room for emergency care at BMH has been expanded to include the now-closed Lobby Café space, which is located directly adjacent to the Emergency Department waiting area. This change will allow for greater separation between patients experiencing respiratory complaints and those with other concerns. The expanded waiting area will be for patients with less severe illness and who are not experiencing respiratory issues.
 
While this might feel like a slight step backwards in our battle against COVID-19, please keep in mind that a lot has changed since the pandemic started. We’ve come a long way in terms of testing, treating, and slowing the spread of this virus. And with safe, effective vaccinations, we’re now able to significantly decrease the potential impact of this illness.
 
Your commitment to continued masking, observing social distancing guidelines, and getting tested as necessary plays a huge part in this ongoing fight. And of course, the significance of getting vaccinations and booster shots cannot be emphasized enough. We all have a role to play because we’re all in this together; and ultimately we will get through this.
 
Thank you for your continued understanding and cooperation with these changes.
 
Wishing you a happy and safe holiday season!
Steven R. Gordon
President & CEO
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