Mass Eye and Ear
Visitor Policy
Updated Visitor Policy
To continue to keep you, our patients and our staff safe during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, Mass Eye and Ear is enforcing a limited visitor policy with certain exceptions. We recognize this is a stressful time for you and your family, and we appreciate your help and understanding.
Wherever possible, we encourage and support alternatives to in-person visits, including accessible methods of electronic communication. If you have any questions, please speak with a staff member.
Please read below for the specific visitor policy by patient care area.
Visitor Policy by Patient Care Area
Visitors are not allowed in the Emergency Department unless they are an essential support person for patient care:
- Two (2) parents of patients who are under the age of 18 years old
- Attorneys of patients
- Companions for patients with intellectual and/or physical disabilities
Visitors are not allowed in outpatient/ambulatory areas of the hospital unless they are an essential support person for patient care:
- Two (2) parents of patients who are under the age of 18 years old
- Attorneys of patients
- Companions for patients with intellectual and/or physical disabilities
One (1) essential support person is allowed for adult surgical patients because many patients require assistance after procedures.
One (1) parent or legal guardian is allowed for patients under the age of 18.
One (1) non-essential visitor is permitted for adult inpatients not on Enhanced Respiratory Isolation.
This visitor must be screened for COVID-19 and adhere to visitation hours.
Visiting times are patient- and unit-specific, and our inpatient areas observe overnight Quiet Times to support patient rest and recovery. The patient’s nurse can assist with determining the best time for visiting.
Two (2) parents or legal guardians are allowed.
- One (1) parent/guardian is allowed overnight (8:00 pm-8:00 am)
Essential Visitor Information
Essential visitors also include the following:
- Vendors and contractors whose urgent, non-deferrable services are deemed essential for the functioning of Mass General Brigham activities
- Emergency services personnel (e.g., EMS, Fire Department, Law Enforcement)
Per the MA Department of Public Health and Department of Mental Health, all essential visitors and support persons:
- Are required to wear a face mask at all times while in the hospital
- Will be screened for symptoms of possible COVID-19 infection (fever, cough, shortness of breath, sore throat, chills, myalgia, or new onset of loss of taste or smell)
- Will not be allowed to enter the hospital with respiratory symptoms
- Must perform hand hygiene (hand washing/sanitizing) prior to entering and upon leaving the patient’s room/care area
- Must remain at least six feet from the patient at all times (as much as possible)
