Loma Linda University Health remains dedicated to the safety and health of all students, employees, patients and the community, particularly as the organization monitors the growing spread of the COVID-19 virus domestically and internationally. Loma Linda University Health continues to respond to the rapidly developing situation to minimize the potential impact of the virus spread, and measures have been put into place across the organization.
Visitor restrictions: To protect the health of patients, employees and guests, Loma Linda University Health is taking extra precautions to limit visitors within our hospitals and clinics effective immediately. We are amending current visitation policies to restrict the number of visitors during the COVID-19 pandemic to one visitor per patient.
Without exception, a visitor may enter the hospital or clinics only if they do not have symptoms of respiratory infection — including fever, runny nose, cough and shortness of breath. Visitors will not be allowed under any circumstance if they have a pending or positive COVID-19 test. Additionally, no one under the age of 18 will be permitted.
Elective surgeries and in-clinic visits: As of March 13, The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the American College of Surgeons and the Surgeon General have urged hospitals and healthcare systems to consider suspending elective surgical procedures.
Loma Linda University Health has also chosen to take further action to ensure the safety of our patients, employees and community. Through this effort, we are working to limit the potential exposure and spread of COVID-19 and prepare for the possible rapid increase in critical patient care needs.
We have taken the following actions effective Tuesday, March 17:
All elective, non-urgent procedures are being canceled and rescheduled for a later date.
Many clinic visits are being converted to telephone or video visits.
Loma Linda University School of Dentistry’s clinics are providing limited and emergency coverage only.
Our clinicians will be working to determine the best treatment plan for each patient. Loma Linda University Health will begin calling patients to cancel or reschedule them immediately. Please note, these changes do not apply to Loma Linda University Medical Center – Murrieta.
Canceled events: All scheduled conferences and events that bring groups of individuals from outside the organization to all Loma Linda University Health locations are canceled or postponed until further notice.
University Classes go online: For the first four weeks of the spring quarter, all didactic courses will be taught online using Canvas and/or Zoom. This will remain in effect through at least May 1. All university offices and services will remain open; however, we are strongly encouraging social distancing practices.
For questions regarding upcoming appointments or other information about COVID-19, visit lluh.org/coronavirus or call 909-558-5545.
For more local news and information click here.
[END]