Bayhealth has mandated masks for patients and visitors at hospitals, outpatient sites, and medical group practices.
Like many health systems across the region, Bayhealth is experiencing higher than normal patient volumes due to an increase in patients with respiratory illnesses like flu, RSV, and Covid-19, a release stated. Bayhealth has healthcare practices in central and southern Delaware and hospitals in Dover and Milford.
“What’s imprant to know is our commitment to the health of our community is at the center of our decision-making process,” said Bayhealth Vice President of Quality and Medical Affairs John Fink. “As we enter the winter months, we encourage everyone to consider preventive options such as vaccination, masking, and proper hand hygiene and to seek appropriate treatment options such as a visit to your primary care provider, walk-in medical care or virtual urgent care when necessary.”
Information is available at Bayhealth.org/Visitation on masking and visitation guidelines.
The mask requirement from the state’s second-largest healthcare system goes beyond TidalHealth’s requirement that those visiting hospital rooms wear masks. Tidal Health operates clinics and hospitals in Seaford and Salisbury, MD.
ChristianaCare, the state’s largest healthcare system and largest private employer and Beebe Healthcare, Lewes, is strongly advising mask-wearing at its sites. Beebe requires staff to mask up. Lewes currently has the highest rate of Covid-19 cases in the state.
Delaware has seen an increase in Covid-19 related hospitalizations, with 105 people in that category shortly before Christmas.
The state is not expected to issue mask requirements that led to intense criticism during the pandemic phase of Covid-19, but will instead leave decisions up to providers
Information on flu and Covid-19 cases is available at the state’s MyHealthyCommunity site.
