The Minnesota Department of Health announced “cautious steps” being made in further loosening some long-term care visitation restrictions during the COVID-19 pandemic.
It will allow for controlled visits from family and friends at low-risk long-term care facilities later this month.
State health officials recently released the new guidance that identifies, based on risk, two levels of visitation and activities for long-term care facilities. Essentially, long-term care facilities will either be deemed Level 1 or Level 2, with Level 1 being the most restrictive.
Long-term care facilities will have a Level 1 designation if there has been a COVID-19 exposure there in the past 28 days, among other factors. Only essential caregivers will be allowed to visit, but outdoor visitation and window visits are still allowed.
On the other hand, the Level 2 designation is for facilities that have succeeded in preventing and controlling COVID-19 infections… It will allow for controlled visits from family and friends, and residents can take small trips outside the facility.
Level 2 visitors will need to schedule their visit, should expect to be screened and will need to wear a mask or other face covering at all times.
Here’s Health Commissioner Jan Malcolm, who says this is another step of balancing safety concerns with the well-being of residents.
“It’s not our only goal to prevent COVID-19 cases…we’re looking into the welfare of these residents,” she said.
The guidance will take effect on Aug. 29. For more information, head to the Minnesota health department’s website.
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