New 'at-the-door' screening procedures on Salem Hospital campus

As part of this process, all patient-care buildings now have designated entry points where screening will take place.

Salem Health is committed to following guidance from the state as the current COVID-19 situation continues to unfold. To reduce exposure and reduce the risk of community spread of COVID-19, Salem Health has created new screening procedures for patients, non-patient visitors, employees, contractors and patients on our campus.

What this means for you:

ALL employees, non-patient visitors and contractors

• Upon entry to a building, employees, visitors, and contractors will be screened for symptoms (temperature 100 or above, coughing, difficulty breathing etc.), and be asked questions regarding recent travel history and contact with individuals confirmed or awaiting test results for COVID-19.
• Anyone with positive answers or results to the above screening process will be asked to leave. Staff, visitors and contractors will not be permitted to return until they are symptom-free for 24 hours.

Patients and those seeking care

• Upon entry to a building, all patients will be screened for symptoms (temperature 100 degrees or above, coughing, difficulty breathing etc.), and be asked questions regarding recent travel history and contact with individuals confirmed or awaiting test results for COVID-19.
• If a patient is identified as positive for a symptom or an answer to questions through the above screening process, screeners will then ask the patient about the purpose of their visit and who they are coming to see. Screeners will then call the appropriate clinic to discuss the situation. If the clinic responsible agrees to see the patient, screeners will give the patient a mask and they will be escorted to their appointment. If the clinic does not agree, the patient will receive instruction to call their primary care provider for screening, use urgent care or go to the emergency department as a last resort.