CCMH Returns to NO Visitor Policy to Protect Against COVID-19

November 16, 2020

CARROLLTON, Mo. – Carroll County Memorial Hospital will be implementing a No Visitor Policy, effective 7 a.m. Tuesday, November 17, which will restrict all non-essential visitors throughout all areas of CCMH, including the Emergency Department and Jefferson Medical Group. CCMH is joining other area hospitals in taking this precaution to protect our patients, staff and the community against coronavirus, COVID-19, as cases increase across the region and nationwide.

There will be exceptions to the No Visitor Policy only for those individuals deemed necessary to the patient’s care, including:

• One dedicated parent/caregiver for pediatric or disabled patients who cannot be left alone or need assistance to move throughout the facility
• One dedicated caregiver/driver for outpatient surgery patients
• Special considerations will be given to family members for patients where end of life care is being given. 

Any individual granted an exception must screen negative to enter the facility.

“We understand this policy is difficult for patients and visitors,” said Jeff Tindle, CCMH Chief Executive Officer. “However, we must reinstate these restrictions out of an abundance of caution to help slow the spread of COVID-19 and further minimize the risk of exposure to our patients, visitors and colleagues. We’ve seen an increase in the number of positive cases throughout the United States and fully expect these numbers to continue to rise. It’s easy to become relaxed in following safety protocols, but it’s more important than ever to remain diligent to keep our communities safe.”

“COVID-19 is on the rise again not only in our community, but nationwide,” said Andy Horine, D.O., CCMH Chief Medical Information Officer. “It is important to remember that most of us will have a mild illness; headache, body ache, cough, sore throat, and fever. While uncomfortable, we will likely recover without much issue. Of course, there are exceptions, and those at increased risk are people with chronic diseases especially chronic lung disease. I encourage everyone to take reasonable precautions such as good handwashing, cover your coughs and sneezes, minimize touching your face, and consider avoiding large groups unless truly necessary. These are the most important actions steps our community can take to minimize exposure and spread of all illness.”

CCMH continues to work in close partnership with state and local health departments and the CDC, and will provide updates as needed.

The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services activated a statewide public hotline at 877-435-8411 for citizens needing guidance regarding COVID-19. The hotline is operated by medical professionals and available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

For more information about the services at Carroll County Memorial Hospital, visit our website http://www.carrollcountyhospital.org or call 660-542-1695.

Carroll County Memorial Hospital (CCMH), the area’s premier healthcare resource, is a 25-bed Critical Access facility serving Carrollton and the surrounding communities. It offers 24-hour emergency care, specialized services such as advanced diagnostics, post-acute skilled care (swing bed) and comprehensive family care. CCMH is dedicated to the Health and Well Being of All We Serve. For more information, visit carrollcountyhospital.org.