Masking no longer required at Northern Light Health facilities
Courtesy / Northern Light Health
With a few exceptions, Northern Light Health is ending its three-year, pandemic-era mask policy.
Three years after the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, Northern Light Health has ended its statewide universal masking policy, effective April 20.
Masking will not be required for most patients, staff, and visitors who will not need masks in most areas of Northern Light Health facilities. Masks are still mandated in certain areas, including cancer care and infusion centers.
“We have been working closely with clinical leaders for several months to determine the right time and right way to move away from universal masking,” said Glenda Dwyer, senior vice president of clinical operations. “The downward trend in community infection and hospitalization rates for respiratory illness, coupled with careful planning to ensure the safety of our patients and staff, indicate we’re ready.”
Those who have signs of, or have been diagnosed with a respiratory illness and those who have knowingly been exposed to COVID-19 within 10 days will be required to mask up.
Northern Light Health locations will continue to provide masks for those who choose to wear one. Patients can also request that caregivers wear a mask.
“Masking continues to be a vital part of our infection prevention toolbox,” said Dwyer. “While many of us are excited for this next step, and to see the end of universal masking, it’s important to remember that masks provide protection from many illnesses and that doesn’t end with the COVID-19 becoming endemic or a policy change. There will always be times when masking is the right choice for an individual, or a group. You cannot always see people’s vulnerabilities; you don’t know who they may be caring for at home.”
Northern Light Health is an integrated health care system comprising 10 member hospitals with 987 licensed beds; a single physician-led medical group; eight nursing homes with 585 long-term beds; five emergency transport members and 37 primary care locations. The company employs more than 12,000 people in Maine.
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