Jim Bickel, President and Chief Executive Officer | Columbus Regional Healthcare System
Jim Bickel, President and Chief Executive Officer | Columbus Regional Healthcare System
In light of declining respiratory virus cases and hospitalizations, Columbus Regional Health has announced changes to its visitation policy. The hospital has decided to ease restrictions on visitors, effective April 14, 2025, allowing those aged 14 and over to visit, subject to the discretion of the patient's care team and any inpatient care capacity constraints.
The hospital maintains several guidelines to ensure safety and a healing environment. Suggested visitation hours remain unchanged, and exceptions can be made by unit leadership in special circumstances. Visitors may be required to follow isolation precautions, including masks and other protective equipment, as deemed necessary by the care team. Those showing symptoms of contagious illnesses are advised to refrain from visiting.
For the Birthing Center and Women and Children’s, special visitor options persist. Laboring patients may have up to three designated support persons. Children under 14 are not allowed on the Birthing Center, except for siblings of the newborn. Visiting hours are set from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. to 8 p.m., with a break for Maternal Rest Time from 2 to 4 a.m. and 2 to 4 p.m.
Overall, the hospital aims to balance safety with visitor access during this period of reduced viral activity.