St. Luke’s University Health Network has implemented a universal masking policy for its patient-facing Health Care Workers (HCW) and employees.

St. Luke’s made the universal masking decision to protect its patients and staff and to help reduce the community spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19).

“We currently have an adequate supply of Personal Protective Equipment [PPE] to undertake this important safety initiative,” said Kara Mascitti, MD, St. Luke’s Medical Director of Health Care Epidemiology and Infection Prevention.

“Our ability to socially distance when providing patient care is limited, so we are implementing this policy to protect both our patients and our staff,” Mascitti said.

“We remain grateful to the community for its outpouring of donated masks and other supplies. Keep it coming,” said Mascitti.

Patients at St. Luke’s facilities will not need to wear masks unless they are exhibiting symptoms or have known exposure to COVID-19.

“Our community still has health-care needs beyond this pandemic,” said Mascitti.

“It’s important that if you need to visit one of our facilities for COVID-19 or otherwise that you know that you are safe in doing so,” Mascitti said.

Virtual telehealth visits are available for those looking to connect with their primary care or specialty doctor from home.

To arrange for a telehealth visit, call your doctor, or: 1-866-STLUKES, option 4.

Information on COVID-19 pandemic: www.sluhn.org/covid-19.