March 20, 2020 – Broward Health is taking all measures to limit the spread of COVID-19 in our community and to ensure the well-being of our patients and caregivers. For everyone’s safety, visitation is suspended at this time.
Pediatric patients will be allowed one authorized adult at a time to visit in 12-hour increments. Maternity patients will also be allowed one guest during labor, followed by one guest from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Considerations are also being made on a hospital basis for visitation with end-of-life patients.
We encourage friends and families to take advantage of technology to conduct visits by phone or video. We appreciate the community’s cooperation and patience as we strive to maintain a safe environment.
As always, all guests will be greeted and registered at the security desk prior to visiting patients. Guests should expect a question-based screening and temperature check to ensure they meet current visitor criteria.
Prior to visiting hospitals, ambulatory/urgent care centers or doctors’ offices, individuals with COVID-19 symptoms, which include shortness of breath, cough and fever, should call their primary care physician or the COVID-19 Hotline at 866-779-6121. A patient’s doctor or the Department of Health can advise whether that individual should be tested and then, if necessary, coordinate with first responders and hospitals to safely isolate the patient. This process is in place to safeguard the community.
Our team is well-equipped to deliver comprehensive care in adherence to CDC and Department of Health guidelines. We are prepared to treat individuals who may need respiratory support or who have an underlying medical condition. However, most healthy individuals who contract COVID-19 may only experience mild to moderate flu-like symptoms and will not require hospitalization. They will likely be able to recover from the comfort of their homes.
Prevention of COVID-19 is the best defense against the virus, and is the responsibility of each member of our community. Please continue to take simple steps to protect yourself and others, including thoroughly washing your hands, covering your cough and social distancing. Visitors seeking more information can visit BrowardHealth.org/COVID-19.
