St. Francis sets restricted visitation policy as precaution against flu

INDIANAPOLIS – St. Francis Hospital & Health Centers today (Oct. 15) announced it is temporarily restricting visitations and taking other proactive measures at its hospitals to protect patients and employees from exposure to influenza-related illnesses.

Those under the age of 15 will not be allowed to visit patients at St. Francis Hospitals in Indianapolis, Beech Grove and Mooresville. Further, only two people at a time will be allowed to visit with a patient.

Further, visitors entering the hospitals will be asked to stop at designated stations (located at marked entry ways and near emergency departments) and fill out a brief health survey, asking if they are experiencing flu-like symptoms. They will be given a sticker to wear for the visit that day.

Those answering “yes” to any question on the survey or displaying flu symptoms will not be allowed to visit patients or enter any part of the hospital.

Visiting hours at the three hospitals will remain from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m.

“This is a public health issue and it is our intent to protect the health and safety of our patients, our visitors and our employees,” said Chief Medical Officer Alan Gillespie, M.D. “In doing so, we can reduce the risk of exposure to H1N1, seasonal flu and other related illnesses.”

St. Francis has worked closely with state and Marion County health officials and other local hospitals in response to the escalating number of flu cases.

St. Francis has created an informational Web link with the latest updates about H1N1 and health tips for the public and the visitation policy. To learn more, go to http://www.stfrancishospitals.org/DesktopDefault.aspx?tabid=438. An informational brochure also is available at various locations at St. Francis’ hospitals and affiliated physician groups.