Rhode Island's largest hospital system has eased some restrictions on visitors so more people can see their loves ones during hospital stays.
Lifespan's changes announced recently are in line with state health department guidelines meant to prevent overcrowding.
Patients at Rhode Island Hospital, Miriam Hospital and Newport Hospital who are not being treated for COVID-19 may now have one visitor per day during set visitation hours.
Patients at Hasbro Children's Hospital may have two parents or guardians visit them at the same time.
All visitors will be screened and must wear a surgical mask at all times.
Visitors must remain in patient rooms and are not allowed to visit the cafeterias or gift shops. Visitors may also not bring outside food or drink into the hospitals.
Visitors are also expected to maintain at least 6 feet between themselves and others while in the hospital.
Meanwhile, Baystate Health in Massachusetts on Monday started requiring all visitors provide their full name and phone number, a photo identification, as well as the name of the patient they are visiting.
Visitors are required to wear face coverings and are only allowed in the rooms of the patient they are visiting.
The new rules are "necessary to protect the health and safety of our patients and staff," the Springfield-based hospital system said in a statement.
The policy applies to Baystate Medical Center and Baystate Children's Hospital in Springfield; Baystate Franklin Medical Center in Greenfield; Baystate Noble Hospital in Westfield; and Baystate Wing Hospital in Palmer.
