March 18, 2020, Ithaca, NY – Per today’s directive from the NYS Department of Health, effective immediately, we are suspending all hospital visitation to Cayuga Medical Center and Schuyler Hospital except when medically necessary (i.e. the visitor is essential to the care of a patient) or for family members or legal representatives of patients that may be facing end-of-life situations.

In addition, any visitors meeting these exceptions will be screened for symptoms (cough, shortness of breath, or fever) or potential exposure to someone with COVID-19 and the duration and number of visits should be minimized.

We are encouraging our patients to use electronic communications when available, including cell phones, tablets, etc. We are working hard to provide alternative solutions for patients that may not have access to these devices.

Thank you for understanding and for your efforts to help contain the spread of COVID-19.

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About Cayuga Health 

Cayuga Health System (CHS) has two hospitals, Cayuga Medical Center and Schuyler Hospital, as well as a multi-specialty group, Cayuga Medical Associates. Combined employment, including affiliated organizations, is over 2,200 employees. CHS is clinically linked to Mayo Medical Laboratories, Rochester Regional Health for cardiac services, Roswell Park for cancer services, and the University of Rochester for neurosciences. It has also teamed up with Family Health Network of Central New York to enhance care in the region. To learn more about the Cayuga Health System, visit cayugahealth.org.