The Superior Express -

When it comes to COVID-19, all of us just wish it would go away.

Eric Barber, Mary Lanning Healthcare President and CEO, is right there among those who wish for an end to the pandemic chaos and resulting fallout. COVID-19 has had a huge effect on the community of Hastings and MLH, an independent, non-profit hospital.

“Everyone, especially those who work in healthcare, has grown weary of COVID-19,” Barber said. “But MLH must continue to follow some protocols to assure that we have the capacity to care for the next patient who walks through the door.”

Because of federal guidelines from OSHA and CMS, MLH and other healthcare organizations continue to require visitors to wear masks and be screened at the door. Employees must wear masks in public areas or when caring for patients. Today, because COVID cases are again on the rise in the area, Barber said MLH has decided to limit visitors to one per patient.

“This is not a punishment,” Barber said. “We have to ensure that our local hospital is available to take care of you when you need us. In order to do that, we need to have some help from the community of Hastings. We are asking for your understanding, patience and a little kindess toward our dedicated staff.”

Barber issued a plea to community members that they try to understand how healthcare organizations are held to a different standard than other businesses. Plus, the pandemic has been hard on healthcare workers, many of whom are just plain tired.

“Our staff needs your support as much now as they did a year ago, if not more,” Barber said. “It seems healthcare workers have gone from heroes to zeroes for no apparent reason.”

“Hastings and Mary Lanning have proven over time we can get through pretty much anything” Barber said. “We just need to work together, and MLH staff members need your appreciation and cooperation.”

Updated Nov. 23 Visiting Hours

All visitors-individuals entering the building will be screened at the North Entrance. Visitors must wear a mask and visitor identification during the entire time they are in the building. No exceptions.

Visiting-Screening:

Visitor access through North Entrance

No visitors under age 16. Visitor access hours:

Monday-Friday: 6 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Saturday. Sunday and Holidays: 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. No access after 7 p.m.

All visitors will be screened and given visitor identification.

Masks are required at all times.

Visitor Guideline by Department:

Inpatient Units: One designated visitor per patient stay. Must show Designated Visitor 10.

Outpatient Surgery: Two visitors at a time.

Diagnostic Services: One visitor at a time.

Family Care Center: Two visitors in addition to the support person. No visitors under age 16.

Pediatrics: Two documented parent-support person visitors. Siblings are not allowed at this time.

Emergency Room: One visitor.

COVID positive patients: No visitors. Video visitation can be arranged with nursing staff.