WACO, TX — Ascension Providence and Baylor Scott & White Medical Center - Hillcrest say current COVID-19 policies and practices will not be changed at this time following Governor Greg Abbott's recent executive order.
On Tuesday, the governor ended the statewide mask mandate and rescinded orders limiting business occupancy levels that were issued during the pandemic, effective March 10.
In a joint statement, the two hospitals announced "no intentions" to change their current policies at this time. This means existing safety protocols, including mask requirements, social distancing and COVID-19 screenings, will remain in place.
Full statement:
"With respect to Governor Greg Abbott's Executive Order GA-34, Ascension Providence and Baylor Scott & White Medical Center - Hillcrest have no intentions of changing current COVID-19 policies and practices at this time. Each healthcare system will continue with existing safety protocols, including mask requirements for everyone who enters our facilities, continuing to practice social distancing at each of our sites of care, and continuing with COVID-19 screenings. We believe these evidence-based practices are in the best interest of the community, and we will continue to take every precaution to protect all of those we are committed to serve, including our frontline workers, our patients and our community. With more COVID-19 vaccines on the horizon, there is hope around the corner. In the meantime, we must remain vigilant in order to prevent the transmission of COVID-19."
