Mask Guidelines and COVID-19 Policy Changes

At The University of Kansas Health System, we are committed to keeping you, our visitors and our staff informed on safety measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and other illnesses.

The health system regularly updates its processes and policies to promote safety and reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission. These changes may occasionally affect outpatient visits and procedures.

On this page, you can learn about our visitor guidelines, mask policies and service changes related to COVID-19

The CDC continues to recommend limiting visitors, but visitors are not restricted from patients with active COVID-19 infections.

• The CDC recommends limited in-person visitation while a COVID-19 patient is infectious.
• At the health system, visitors of COVID+ patients should adhere to infection prevention principles consistent with national standards of practice. Visitors are advised to follow current safety guidelines:
• Wear a gown, surgical mask, eye protection and gloves while visiting.
• Wash your hands with soap and water or use hand sanitizer when entering and exiting the room.
• Our care team will explain these protocols to visitors and answer any visitor questions.

The health system may complete COVID-19 tests for patients admitted to the hospital. This testing helps us provide the best individualized care.

The health system offers support groups for patients and families living with chronic illness. These classes can benefit those who have been affected by COVID-19. Contact your care team to learn more.

Turning Point offers a variety of remote and in-person classes. Learn more 

While masks are no longer required in every care setting, the health system recommends masking to promote the health and safety of our patients, staff and communities.

• Masks are optional but recommended. Masks continue to be a key tool for infection prevention and control. Patients with symptoms of any illness are strongly encouraged to wear a mask while inside our facilities to protect patients, staff and others.
• Masks are required in some care settings. To keep patients safe, masks are required in some care areas. Examples include cancer care settings and those with immunocompromised patients.
• Mask requirements may vary by location. Patients and visitors should be prepared to wear a mask while inside our facilities. Areas that require masking will be clearly identified.
• Our staff will wear masks when it is best for patient safety. This includes settings in which patients are prepared for surgery and recover from surgery. Other examples are cancer treatment and cellular therapy areas.
• We are sensitive to patient preferences and comfort. If you prefer that those on your care team wear masks, simply ask. We will gladly accommodate your request.
• Please respect those around you who choose to wear a mask. The health system continues to encourage masking and respects those who opt to wear a mask to protect themselves and others.

CDC masking guidance no longer includes universal masking in healthcare facilities. To learn more about CDC guidance or check your local COVID-19 community infection rate, visit the CDC website.