Banner eases visitor restrictions as coronavirus metrics improve

PHOENIX — Arizona’s largest hospital system eased visitor restrictions on Friday as coronavirus metrics in the state continue to improve.

Banner Health is now allowing one visitor over the age of 12 per patient per day between the hours of 10 a.m. and 6 p.m.

Outpatient locations and services such as urgent cares, clinics and emergency rooms are also allowing one visitor.

Those who have COVID-19 or exhibit symptoms of respiratory illness will not be permitted.

A health screening will be conducted upon check-in for all visitors, who are required to bring their own mask and wear it throughout the visit.

The move comes as the state moves away from its latest surge in coronavirus cases and hospitalizations.

As of Friday, the new case report has remained below 2,000 for seven consecutive days, the longest such streak since early November.

The number of confirmed or suspected COVID-19 inpatients in the state’s hospitals decreased to 1,738 on Thursday, the fewest since Nov. 17.

The number of ICU beds used by COVID-19 patients declined to 563, the fewest since Nov. 27.

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