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VA Northeast Ohio Healthcare System Local Masking Policy Updates

VHA Health Protection Level Medium. Masks Required in Patient Care Areas and Waiting Rooms. Self-Screening. Visitors Welcome. Physical Distancing Encouraged. Safe Care is Our Mission.
VHA Health Protection Level Medium. Masks Required in Patient Care Areas and Waiting Rooms. Self-Screening. Visitors Welcome. Physical Distancing Encouraged. Safe Care is Our Mission.

The masking policy is dependent on the VHA COVID-19 Health Protection Level and is subject to change based on local conditions. VA Northeast Ohio is currently in Health Protection Level Medium.

Under this COVID-19 Health Protection Level, Masks are required:

  • In direct patient care areas, including clinic waiting areas, phlebotomy, and pharmacy areas. (Direct patient care areas include laboratories collecting or handling specimens from known or suspected COVID-19 patients, congregate settings and bedded residential settings.)
  • For individuals who are close contacts or have had a higher risk exposure to someone with COVID-19 in previous 10 days.
  • For individuals with suspected or confirmed respiratory infection, even if mild symptoms.
  • For individuals who have not received their annual influenza vaccine, during influenza season.

Masks are optional in all other areas.