Mask requirements end for Barton and other California healthcare systems

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - For three years there has been a mask mandate in place for hospitals and healthcare facilities due to COVID-19, but as of Monday that is no longer the case. In accordance with California Department of Public Health guidelines, Barton Health has updated its universal masking guidelines for patients and visitors.

As of Monday, April 3, face masks are optional at all Barton Health facilities with some exceptions, said Barton Infection Prevention Manager Jake Vinocur.

"Patients will be asked to wear a mask if they are experiencing any symptoms of illness," said Vinocur. "Visitors with symptoms will not be permitted to enter a Barton facility (exceptions may be allowed as determined by a patient's care team)."

If there is a future outbreak or high transmission levels in the community, masks may be reinstated. Residents and visitors at the Skilled Nursing Facility located at Barton Hospital will be requested to mask during medium transmission levels.

Barton Health President and CEO Dr. Clint Purvance said it was a pleasure walking through the halls of the hospital Monday without a mask. He said he could see smiling faces for the first time in almost three years.

Patients and visitors are no longer required to wear face masks in dental offices, hospitals, physicians' offices, and other indoor health care and high-risk settings in California as of April 3 per guidance from the state Department of Public Health.