Mask Policy

Masking Procedure at Independence Health System

Updated 1/23/2025

The safety of patients, visitors, and employees remains our top concern. Viral respiratory infections like the flu, RSV and COVID-19 are on the rise.

Patient and Visitor Masking:

• Masking is required around patients most vulnerable to infection.
• Masks are available. All patients and visitors are permitted and encouraged to mask if they choose.
• Patients may request staff to wear masks.
• Patients are encouraged to mask if experiencing any upper respiratory symptoms – sore throat, runny nose, cough, fever, shortness of breath, and any other flu-like illness.
• Visitors must mask and should defer non-urgent visits if experiencing any upper respiratory symptoms – sore throat, runny nose, cough, fever, shortness of breath, and any other flu-like illness.
• Please defer non-urgent appointments or visits if you have any of the following:
  • Suspected or confirmed COVID-19.
  • Recent exposure, within 10 days, of someone with COVID-19.

Staff Masking:

• Masking is required in the presence of an immunocompromised patient regardless of location.
• Masks must be worn if requested by patients.
• Masks must be worn if experiencing any upper respiratory symptoms – sore throat, runny nose, cough, fever, shortness of breath, and any other flu-like illness.
• Masks must be worn per the direction of Employee Health and Infection Control post exposure or during an outbreak.