My relative is in a psychiatric hospital. Can I visit them during the state’s COVID-19 emergency response?

All facilities that are operated by the Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services have imposed a complete ban on all visitors to such facilities for a period of 30 days.

The following categories of individuals will retain access to DMHAS facilities:

• First responders, including emergency medical services, law enforcement, firefighting and emergency management personnel;

• Family members, domestic partners or other persons designated by a patient only when the facility’s medical director, a licensed physician or advanced practice registered nurse has determined such patient to be at the end stage of life with death being imminent;

• Any person authorized by law to oversee or investigate the provision of care and services; and

• Service providers who are required to do maintenance or repair necessary without delay for the facility’s continued operation.

Additionally, many DMHAS facilities serve as public meeting spaces within their communities. Due to the COVID-19 outbreak, DMHAS facilities will not be available for public use until further notice.

Private not for profit providers are also prohibited from entering DMHAS facilities but are encouraged to use telephone or web-based communication to carry out necessary functions.

Insurance providers are also prohibited from entering DMHAS facilities but are encouraged to use telephone or web-based communication to carry out necessary functions.

NOTE: Individuals who come to a DMHAS-operated facility will be subject to a COVID-19 risk screening and may be refused access if they are deemed to be at risk for COVID-19. Admitted visitors will be required to use appropriate personal protection equipment (PPE) in accordance with CDC guidelines while in the facility.

Any requirement for personal service is waived as it relates to any person currently located in a facility that has restricted visitor access at this time.

Service may be made by serving an administrator or the administrator's designee.

Any requirement for an in-person meeting, hearing, or screening is also waived: meetings, hearings, or screenings may take place by any other method that allows for the participation of the interested parties.

Please see Executive Order 7f for more details.