Mask Requirements Eased At ARHS Medical Facilities

Appalachian Regional Healthcare System has updated mask policies when visiting patients in their hospitals.

On Friday, March 24, 2023 ARHS updated its mask policy for patients and visitors at Cannon Memorial Hospital, Watauga Medical Center and Appalachian Regional Medical Associates Offices, from "masks required" to "masks encouraged."

The new policy still requires masks in certain circumstances. Patients and visitors who have symptoms of respiratory illnesses must wear a mask. Certain units and clinics may require masks based on their specific patient populations and patient care needs.

The change in policy is consistent with current Centers for Disease Control (CDC) guidelines and falling infection rates in our communities across North Carolina.