Swedish updates COVID-19 screening requirements at hospital entrances

September 23, 2022 Swedish Communications

a woman wearing a facemask pumps sanitizer into her hands

[2 MIN READ]

In this article:

  • People will now be asked to self-screen and mask at the entrances to Swedish hospitals.

  • Visitor policies have also been adjusted.

  • These changes are aligned with recommendations from federal agencies.

Over the past two years, we have learned to manage COVID-19 and have strong protocols in place to keep our patients and caregivers safe. As we move to a new stage in the pandemic, everyone will be asked to self-screen and mask at Swedish hospital entrances beginning Friday, July 29, 2022. This includes our hospital campuses at First Hill, Cherry Hill, Issaquah, Ballard and Edmonds.

Although our entrances will no longer be staffed, signs at each entrance will offer clear instructions for patients and visitors. By entering the hospital, people will confirm that they do not have COVID-19 or COVID-19 symptoms, and they haven’t been exposed to the illness. Visitors who don’t meet the guidelines will not be allowed to visit until symptoms are resolved.

Our visitor policy will change, effective Sept. 28, 2022 at 8 a.m., but we will continue to require universal masking, hand hygiene and physical distancing for all those entering our facilities. Surgical-grade masks and a hand sanitizer station will also be available at each entrance. 

The move to self-screen is in line with new Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services  guidelines while still following Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidance on regulatory compliance and follows the shift on how health care organizations as well businesses, schools and government agencies are responding to relaxed COVID-19 restrictions in their communities. However, the safety of our patients and community members will always be paramount, and we will adjust guidelines as needed to best align with the evolving climate of COVID-19.

Thank you for your assistance in this new phase of managing COVID-19 in our facilities. 

Find a doctor

If you have questions about COVID-19, contact the primary care department at Swedish. We can accommodate both in-person and virtual visits.

Whether you require an in-person visit or want to consult a doctor virtually, you have options. Swedish Virtual Care connects you face-to-face with a nurse practitioner who can review your symptoms, provide instruction and follow up as needed. If you need to find a doctor, you can use our provider directory.

Join our Patient and Family Advisory Council.

This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your health care professional's instructions.

Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter

Previous Article
Visitor policy
Visitor policy

Our updated visitor policy and masking guidelines

No More Articles