AU Health to allow two support persons with pediatric patients

Beginning May 18, Augusta University Health welcomes two parents or support persons to accompany pediatric patients for surgeries, inpatient hospital stays and clinic appointments at Augusta University Medical Center and Children’s Hospital of Georgia.

All support persons will be screened at entrances, where they will be asked about symptoms and virus exposure, and must wear a face covering while in the hospital and clinics.

“Our top priority is our patients and families,” said Julie Moretz, associate vice president of the Center for Patients and Families at AU Health. “Our patient- and family-centered practices recognize that family and caregivers are stewards of patient safety and are integral to healing. The COVID-19 pandemic has been difficult for all of us, and while we continue to support patient- and family-centered care during this time, we will continue to be cautious in preventing the spread of COVID-19.”

After entering the hospital, family and support persons will be given a sticker verifying they’ve been screened and asked to limit their movement to their patient’s room. Family who come to the hospital after 8:30 p.m. will be issued a photo ID.

Family and support persons are asked to practice social distancing, frequent hand washing and good cough and sneeze etiquette. People who are sick are asked to stay home and limit contact with others. Virtual visits can be coordinated by contacting the Center for Patients and Families at 706-721-7322.