Visitor Restrictions Announced For These Capital Region Hospitals

The Albany Med Health System is rolling out temporary visitor restrictions at several hospitals across the Capital Region starting today (Monday, December 15th).

The change comes as seasonal respiratory illnesses continue to spread, and hospital leaders say the goal is to keep patients, visitors, and care teams as healthy as possible.

The updated guidelines apply to inpatient areas at Albany Medical Center, Columbia Memorial Health, Glens Falls Hospital, and Saratoga Hospital. While each location has slightly different rules, the overall message is the same. If you are feeling sick, it is best to stay home and visit another time.

At Albany Medical Center, visiting is allowed daily from early morning through the evening. Guests should be healthy, and children under 12 are not permitted. Two visitors may be at the bedside at once, and everyone must enter through the B2 entrance.

Special circumstances such as pediatric care, labor and delivery, clergy visits, and end-of-life situations may allow for exceptions. Hand hygiene and following staff guidance are strongly encouraged.

Columbia Memorial Health allows visits from late morning into the evening. Patients may see up to two healthy visitors per day, with no visits from children under 12. Family meetings can still be scheduled outside standard visiting times when needed.

At Glens Falls Hospital, visiting hours run from late morning through the evening. Two healthy visitors are allowed at a time, and all guests must enter through the Tower Entrance for screening. Visitors should follow hand hygiene guidelines, and visitation is not permitted for patients who are COVID-positive.

Saratoga Hospital welcomes visitors from late morning into early evening. Patients may have two visitors at a time, and guests must be at least 12 years old. Pediatric patients and those with cognitive or developmental needs may have designated support people with them.

More details and a full list of exceptions can be found on the Albany Med Health System website.