CHARLOTTESVILLE (WINA) – Starting April 18, UVa Health is loosening up some masking requirements at its ambulatory centers and lower-risk areas… and going back to some pre-COVID visitation policies at the main hospital. Dr. Tracey Hoke — UVa Health Chief Quality Officer — says masks will be optional at their ambulatory medical centers in Culpeper, Haymarket, and Prince William. Optional masking will also be at outpatient imaging and surgery centers, as well as the Caton Merchant House.

As for visitation… they going back to pre-COVID hours and number — which is 8am-to-9pm at the main hospital with two-at-a-time allowed at the beside.

However, CEO Wendy Horton says masking will still be required at the main hospital not just in high-risk areas… but even in hallways, lobbies, and cafeterias. She says as a major academic hospital, it’s more likely critical and/or immunocompromised patients are in any area, and they need to be protected.

Click here for all the masking and visitation information at UVa Health facilities.