Visitation Policy and Procedures
Residents have the right to visitors. Visitation is allowed unless the resident rejects the visitor. Importantly, essential caregivers are never restricted entry—a requirement under both F.S. 429.28 and SB 988.
SB 988 states health care facilities must allow in-person visitation in all of the following circumstances, unless the resident, client, or patient objects:
- End-of-life situations.
- A resident, client, or patient who was living with family before being admitted to the provider’s care is struggling with the change in environment and lack of in-person family support.
- A resident, client, or patient is making one or more major medical decisions.
- A resident, client, or patient is experiencing emotional distress or grieving the loss of a friend or family member who recently died.
- A resident, client, or patient needs cueing or encouragement to eat or drink which was previously provided by a family member or caregiver.
- A resident, client, or patient who used to talk and interact with others is seldom speaking.
- For hospitals, childbirth, including labor and delivery.
- Pediatric patients.
Additionally, the bill allows a resident, client, or patient the option to designate a visitor who is a family member, friend, guardian, or other individual as an essential caregiver. The provider must allow in-person visitation by the essential caregiver for at least 2 hours daily in addition to any other visitation authorized by the provider.
- All visitors must sign in upon entering the facility. In accordance with facility policy, visitors may be subject to health screening procedures, including temperature checks and/or the completion of a health questionnaire, prior to entry. Visitors are required to comply with the facility’s Infection Control and Education policies, Protective Equipment (PPE), such as properly fitted face masks and other necessary protective gear, and performing appropriate hand hygiene. Educational materials will be provided, and staff will offer instructions and assistance regarding the correct use of PPE and compliance with all infection prevention protocols. Again, essential caregivers are never restricted entry.
- The ED or designee will be responsible for ensuring that employees adhere to the visitation policies and procedures.
- Consensual physical contact between residents and their visitors will not be restricted.
- There is a limit of 4 visitors per resident at one time.
- There is no length of time of visitation, however, overnight visits must be approved prior to occurring by facility ED and will only be allowed in certain circumstances. Any resident can visit with any person of his or her choice, at any time between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m. at a minimum.
- Visitors will not be asked to produce proof of vaccination or immunization, and it will not be a condition of visitation.
- A provider may suspend in-person visitation of a specific visitor if the visitor violates the provider’s policies and procedures.