St. Luke’s Updates Visitor Policy In Duluth

As COVID-19 numbers in the Northland continue to drop, a variety of government, commercial, educational, and medical facilities have evolved their policies and procedures.  The general trend is towards loosening any remaining masking, social distancing, and testing requirements.

One of those facilities that is making a change to their COVID-19 protocols is St. Luke's.  They've updated their Visitor Policy - effective immediately - "due to the decreasing prevalence of COVID-19 in the community".

The complete details of their Visitor Policy is available on their website.  Here are a few highlights of the changes:

• Many types of patients are now allowed two visitors at a time, between 6:00 AM and 8:30 PM
• There is also no limit on the total number of visitors per day
• The requirement of showing a proof of vaccination has been dropped
• The requirement for a negative PCR test within three days of visiting - in lieu of showing proof of vaccination - has been dropped

There is a remaining requirement that all visitors to St. Luke's be symptom free and not awaiting a COVID-19 test result.  Additionally, all visitors still need to be wearing a mask while they are inside of a St. Luke's facility - no matter what the CDC recommendations might be.

Similar to what's been in place since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, St. Luke's does make exceptions to their Visitor Policy for the following situations:

• Labor and Delivery:  One adult support person.  If the patient has a certified doula, the certified doula will be allowed if not suspected or confirmed COVID-19 positive
• Pediatric:  Up to two parents or guardians are allowed
• End Of Life:  Up to two visitors at a time are allowed, with a maximum of 4 visitors per day.  A minor is allowed to be a visitor if accompanied by an adult (who also counts as a visitor).

Complete details about St. Luke's Visitor Policy are available on the specific page set up on their website.