ISHPEMING – UP Health System – Bell announced today that it is transitioning from a zero-visitor protocol to limited visitor restrictions as the hospital gradually resumes elective and non-urgent cases and services at its facilities. The decision was made as current projections continue to indicate a lower than expected volume of COVID-19 in the region and after careful review of state and federal guidelines. The updated restrictions, which will now allow most patients to have one visitor or support person per day, have been implemented effective immediately.

“Our hospital’s top priority is safeguarding the health and wellbeing of our patients, providers, employees, and community,” said Mitch Leckelt, chief executive officer (CEO) of UPHS – Bell. “We continue to monitor closely the prevalence of the virus in our community as we adapt our operations to safely care for and support our patients, and we feel confident that it is safe to begin allowing limited visitors again at this time.”

As part of the updated visitor restrictions, patients are now limited to one well visitor per day, including one companion for outpatient appointments and one support person for obstetric patients. All visitors must be 18 years of age or older, will be screened upon entry, and are required to wear a mask while in the facility. Designated visitors are permitted between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. and must remain in the patient’s room except for use of the restroom and vending machines. Visitors who do not pass the screening at entry will be asked to reschedule their visit until they are symptom-free. Visitors are not allowed for patients in isolation including those who are under observation or test positive for COVID-19.

UPHS – Bell continues to screen everyone who enters the facility for symptoms consistent with COVID-19, per CDC guidelines. For additional updates on how the hospital is working to maintain a safe and supportive environment during the COVID-19 pandemic, please visit BellHospital.org.

About UP Health System – Bell

UP Health System – Bell has been serving the residents of Western Marquette and Baraga county for more than a century. The main campus is a 25-bed hospital. Services include a dedicated physician for hospital stays, emergency room, Express Care walk-in clinic, obstetrics and gynecology, family medicine, orthopedics, x-ray & diagnostics, radiological & laboratory services, digital mammography, rehab, and more. UP Health System – Bell is part of the UP Health System, a unified identity including Bell, Marquette, and Portage.