COVID-19 Updates

On May 11, 2023, the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency ended. Our COVID-19 Response Team has released the following COVID-19 guidance based on recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the Maryland Department of Health:

June 22, 2023

Dear Patients & Families,

As you may be aware, on May 11, 2023, the Federal government declared the end of the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency (PHE). In response, Montgomery Hospice & Prince George’s Hospice has updated our COVID-19 guidelines for our staff, volunteers, patients, and families. They are as follows:

  • Wearing a mask is OPTIONAL for staff, volunteers, patients, and families.
  • Wearing a mask is REQUIRED in the following circumstances:
    • At the request of patients and families
    • Patients who have tested positive for COVID-19
    • Patients who are showing symptoms of respiratory illness 
  • We fully support the right of any staff member to wear a mask.
  • We will no longer require staff and volunteers to ask screening questions prior to patient visits.
  • Our care teams will continue to follow infection prevention protocols to reduce the transmission of any respiratory infections.
  • We may increase precautions when transmission and infection rates in our community are trending high.
  • We will continue to coordinate closely with local, state, and federal health agencies.
  • We will abide by any future vaccination requirements for healthcare workers imposed by the State and/or Federal governments.

For questions or concerns, please call 301-921-4400.

Sincerely,

David Schrier, MD
Medical Director & Chief Medical Officer  

Jennifer Plude, RN, BSN, CHPN 
Chief Clinical Officer

Visit Guidelines

A comprehensive overview of our visiting guidelines and safety precautions for Casey House in light of the end of the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency (PHE):

Casey House recognizes the importance of visits from family and friends during this difficult time. The recommended guidelines have been created to benefit your loved one, and your family and friends. These recommended guidelines are based on our care that has been provided over the years to ensure comfort and peace while receiving Hospice care.

At this time, the recommended guidelines are as follows:

  • 4-5 visitors at a time in the facility, per patient.
  • 8-10 total visitors per patient, per day.
  • Visiting Hours are 8am-8pm & Quiet Hours are from 8pm-8am.
  • After 8pm, 1-2 visitors may stay overnight in the patient’s room.
    • Sleeping is only permitted in the Patient’s room, and not permitted in the main sitting areas.
    • We ask that you remain at Casey House throughout the night.
  • If you’re experiencing any symptoms of illness such as fever, cough, nausea/vomiting, please wait to visit until you are symptom free.

If there are any needs that arise, please ask to speak with the Director or Social Worker.