Charlotte-based healthcare provider, Atrium Health, is making significant strides in its infection prevention efforts. Amid a steady decrease in respiratory infection cases, Atrium Health is easing its temporary masking and visitor restriction policies that have been imposed since January. The rollback of these precautionary measures will take effect across all Atrium Health and Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist locations beginning at 7 a.m. on Thursday, March 27.
These steps highlight the hospital’s dynamic, evidence-based approach to infection prevention management, making safety adjustments as trends and infection rates fluctuate. Dr. Katie Passaretti, the Chief Infection Prevention Officer for Advocate Health, under which Atrium Health operates, noted the sustained and progressive decrease in respiratory viral infections in both their communities and their hospitals over the recent weeks. While this reduction indicates a close to this year’s respiratory viral season, Dr. Passaretti emphasized the need to remain vigilant and responsive to any potential changes. She echoed the hospital’s commitment to delivering safe and effective care to all patients.
According to this new revision, masks will now be optional, and children aged 12 and under are once again permitted to visit the hospitals. However, certain persisting exceptions to this policy remain undisclosed at this time. The overarching message remains focused on Atrium Health’s continuous emphasis on combating infectious diseases and the undeterred commitment to maintain safe patient environments.