As the number of COVID-related hospitalizations trends downward, Abrazo hospitals will begin allowing elective surgery and emergency room patients one designated visitor. Two weeks ago, hospitals again were permitted to perform elective surgeries. Abrazo's policy continues to allow visitors for childbirth and end-of-life patients.

Each visitor will need to be screened for fever, respiratory symptoms and travel history to high-risk areas before being allowed to enter the hospitals. They’ll also be required to wear masks, wait in designated areas and stay away from units with active COVID-19 cases.

“Our COVID safety standards were developed with key principles in mind to maximize safety — maintain vigilance of all potential risks, create separate care pathways and take a multi-factor approach to maintaining a safe environment for patients and visitors,” Abrazo said in a statement.

Currently, ADHS says ICU and hospital beds are hovering at around 80% capacity.

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