October 7, 2024
Helena, Mont. Oct. 7, 2024 – In response to a steady increase of respiratory virus prevalence in our community, St. Peter’s Health announced today that they are implementing visitor restrictions at the Regional Medical Center. While the restrictions are in effect, children 12 and under, as well as anyone with cold and flu-like symptoms are restricted from entering the hospital unless they are seeking care.
According to St. Peter’s Chief Medical Officer Dr. Shelly Harkins, visitor restrictions are typical across medical facilities nationwide and are put in place to safeguard staff members and patients at the start of cold and flu season.
“It’s our responsibility to provide a healing environment for our patients,” says Harkins. “These restrictions are to protect those who are receiving care at St. Peter’s as well as protect those who are providing care – our team members.”
Dr. Ashley Coggins, Executive Medical Director and Hospitalist who cares for patients hospitalized at St. Peter’s, says they have seen an increase in hospital admissions due to viral respiratory illnesses such as COVID and Influenza A, already admitting six patients in a single week.
“Protecting our community from harmful viruses’ starts with each of us making responsible choices,” says Coggins. “I encourage everyone to get their seasonal vaccines, like the flu shot and COVID booster. These vaccines can help keep you out of the hospital if you do get sick,” says Coggins. “Lastly, if you’re feeling under the weather, please stay home unless seeking care and remember to practice good hand hygiene.”
Seasonal vaccines are readily available at nearly every pharmacy and medical clinic in town, including St. Peter’s. Many locations offer walk-in services, allowing individuals to receive their vaccine without an appointment. Additionally, most insurance plans fully cover the cost of the visit. Learn more about the importance of getting your annual flu shot HERE.
About Visitor Restrictions at the Regional Medical Center (Hospital)
Visitor restrictions are in effect at the Regional Medical Center, including the Emergency Department, as of 8:00am today Monday, October 7, 2024. Visitor restrictions are in place to ensure patient, visitor and employee safety.
While the restrictions are in effect, children 12 and under, as well as anyone with cold and flu-like symptoms are restricted from visiting the Regional Medical Center unless they are seeking care. If you are experiencing the following symptoms when seeking care, please put on a mask available at patient entrances to help protect others during your visit:
- Fever
- Cough
- Sore Throat
- Runny Nose
- Nasal Congestion
If you are not experiencing these symptoms and visiting a loved one in the hospital, please remember to wash or sanitize your hands frequently to avoid getting sick or getting someone else sick. Visitation hours (5:30am to 9:00pm daily) are not impacted by the new restrictions put in place. Learn more about Visitation Guidelines at St. Peter’s Health.