Mask Policy Update

Based on sustained reduced incidence of COVID-19, influenza and respiratory illness hospitalizations and community transmission, BJC HealthCare is lifting universal masking requirements in our health care environments effective March 22, 2023. Masks will continue to be readily available for those who prefer to continue wearing a mask, and patients who would prefer their providers wear a mask may request that. Masking in health care facilities helped protect patients, visitors, employees and the community throughout the pandemic and during recent severe respiratory viral illness surges.

• Masking remains required when visiting patients who are positive or suspected positive for COVID-19.
• To reduce transmission, masking is recommended for those who are showing signs or symptoms of respiratory illness and those with a recent known exposure to someone with a respiratory illness.
• Those who prefer to wear masks in BJC facilities are welcome to do so. Respiratory hygiene stations will remain at all facilities.
• BJC may reinstate a broad masking requirement in our health care facilities during surges of respiratory viruses such as influenza. BJC infection prevention and infectious diseases specialists will continue to track case rates in the community and among staff, along with hospitalization rates, to evaluate whether and when masking may need to be reinstated to protect patients, visitors and employees.