El Paso

EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) -- El Paso area hospitals released a joint statement Monday outlining a new no-visitor policy that takes effect immediately.

El Paso Children's Hospital, The Hospitals of Providence, Las Palmas Del Sol Healthcare and University Medical Center of El Paso all said the policy is necessary to reduce the risk of coronavirus being spread to patients and staff.

Exceptions for The Hospitals of Providence, Las Palmas Del Sol Healthcare and University Medical Center of El Paso will be made for laboring and post-partum patients; patients with disabilities or impairments or who are elderly; patients in the neonatal ICU (NICU) and pediatric units; patients requiring surgery or other emergency or traumarelated medical procedures; and patients requiring end-of-life care.

One caregiver 18 years or older may accompany these patients, and they must also pass a health-screening upon entrance into the facility.

No visitors will be allowed to wait in the lobby or waiting rooms.

El Paso Children’s Hospital and Providence Children’s Hospital are limited to one parent/legal guardian at a time.

Anyone entering the facility will be asked if they have symptoms of illness and exposure risks upon arrival.

Hospital officials recommended staying in contact with loved ones hospitalized through phone calls, video chats or texting.