Effective Monday, January 17, 2022, Blanchard Valley Health System (BVHS), including Bluffton Hospital, will be further limiting the number of visitors coming into the organization due to the increased transmission in the community and rise in COVID-19 cases. This is to ensure that BVHS provides the safest environment for patients, visitors and associates.

Please see the link for the health system’s updated guidelines: 

https://www.bvhealthsystem.org/services/covid-19-information/covid-19-vi...

In accordance with the updated guidelines, all BVHS visitors are required to wear a mask at all times (this includes time spent in the room of a loved one). The health system will provide an appropriate mask (masks must cover the nose, mouth and chin). Additionally, visitors are required to wash their hands or use hand sanitizer every time they enter or exit a patient room.

When visiting BVHS, it is important to note the safest practice for patients and visitors is to wear a mask and physically distance, regardless of vaccination status, when entering or exiting a patient room. When wearing a mask, it is important that it covers a person’s mouth and nose to prevent the spread of secretions when breathing, talking, sneezing or coughing.

BVHS continues to take temperatures and screen at the door. Visitors with symptoms or a high temperature will not be allowed into the facility in order to better protect our patients and visitors. Medical professionals have the right to refuse appointments to those who do not comply.

For more information about COVID-19 efforts and guidelines at BVHS please visit bvhsvaccineconnect.com.