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VHA Implements COVID-19 Health Protection Levels to Enhance Safety of Veterans, Visitors and Employees

PRESS RELEASE

May 24, 2022

Gainesville , FL — This week, the North Florida/South Georgia Veterans Health System (NF/SGVHS) is implementing COVID-19 Health Protection Levels as part VA’s consistent, nationwide approach for Veterans Health Administration (VHA) facilities to adjust COVID-19 safety protocols locally as needed.

The three VHA COVID-19 Health Protection Levels – low, medium, and high – align with CDC’s Community Transmission levels, which are based on new COVID cases and percentage of positive tests.

Starting this week, all NF/SGVHS facilities are at level Low. The VHA COVID-19 Health Protection Level will be updated as needed on Mondays.

“Our local Veterans are resolute about receiving their care at our facility and we want to keep them safe during the ups and downs of COVID-19 community spread,” said David Isaacks, Executive Health System Director, NF/SGVHS.  “Instead of increasing or decreasing access to care, safety protocols will be adjusted based on COVID-19 levels in the community.”

Masks are required regardless of the level, but requirements for self-screening, visitation, and physical distancing vary.

NF/SGVHS facilities current level is Low – see requirements below:

Low:

  1. Masks are required
  2. Self-screening is required
  3. Visitors are welcome
  4. Physical distancing is not required

Additional levels below:

Medium:

  1. Masks are required
  1. Self-screening is required
  1. Care partner welcome only
  1. Physical distancing is not required

High:

  1. Masks are required
  1. Self-screening is required
  1. Care team-approved visitors only
  1. Physical distancing is required

Please visit our website at https://www.va.gov/north-florida-health-care/ for current protection levels before your next visit or call the facility you are receiving care with. If patients or visitors are heading to a VA facility in another county, they should check with that health facility to determine the facility’s VHA COVID-19 Health Protection Level.

Visit www.va.gov/coronavirus-veteran-frequently-asked-questions/ for questions and answers regarding the VHA COVID-19 Health Protection Levels.

Media contacts

Melanie Thomas, Public Affairs Officer

Phone:

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