Masks no longer required at Aspirus, Marshfield Clinic

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For the Star Journal

Two Northwoods healthcare providers have removed COVID-19 masking requirements in most situations. Marshfield Clinic Health System ended the requirement April 17 and Aspirus did so effective May 1. The federal COVID-19 public health emergency will end May 11.

“Patient, visitor and employee safety is our number one priority for those entering and working in our facilities, and every COVID-19 guideline we put in place during the pandemic was for their protection," said Dr. Samantha Klebe, chief medical officer, Marshfield Clinic Health System. “Given the current trends showing lower rates in hospitalizations and community transmission, we believe we're in a position to adjust some of those guidelines while maintaining a high level of safety and precaution"

Masks will be available at both facilities for those who choose to wear them.

 “All COVID-related guidelines were created to ensure the safest possible environment for everyone who enters Aspirus facilities,” said Jeff Wicklander, Aspirus senior vice president, and president of Aspirus Wausau Hospital. “We have been eager to remove restrictions for some time, but the COVID activity data we actively review hasn’t supported taking earlier action. We thankfully have experienced a sustained period of low COVID-19 burden on our health system, so now is the time to safely make this positive change for our employees and those we serve.”

Aspirus is also adjusting additional guidelines in advance the federal COVID-19 public health emergency ending May 11.

• Visitor guidelines – The number of patient visitors will no longer be restricted unless necessary in specific circumstances related to patient care or safety.

• COVID-19 testing – Testing will no longer be required for patients prior to hospital admission if they have no COVID-19 symptoms. Aspirus previously discontinued COVID testing prior to surgical procedures on March 1 for patients without symptoms.

Aspirus reminds community members to be considerate when visiting loved ones in a hospital or clinic setting. Individuals with active symptoms of respiratory illness are encouraged to stay home unless they are seeking care.