Starting Monday, May 15, 2023, masks are optional at all Hawaii Pacific Health (HPH) medical centers and clinics, except for areas considered high-risk because of the medical needs of patients served there. Signs reflecting the new masking policy are posted at all HPH facilities to inform patients, visitors and staff members of the changes. Anyone who prefers to wear a mask in optional-masking zones are free to do so.
Mask-required zones include, but are not limited to:
- Intensive Care Units, including the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit and Neonatal Intensive Care Unit
- Oncology Departments.
- Infusion Centers.
- All areas providing services to immunocompromised/oncology patients.
“We continue to monitor the evolving impact of COVID-19,” said Dr. Shilpa Patel, HPH chief quality officer. “We are seeing fewer and less serious cases as well as higher levels of immunity in our community thanks to successful public health efforts. We understand some people may feel more comfortable wearing a mask at all times at our medical centers and clinics. It’s important to consider your personal situation and take precautions accordingly before arriving at our facilities.”
Patients seeking care at HPH medical centers and clinics may also request staff wear masks at any time during their care by notifying staff members.
Patients with symptoms of respiratory illnesses (such as fever, cough, runny nose, etc.) are still required to wear masks while at HPH medical centers and clinics. Visitors displaying symptoms of illness are not allowed at any HPH facility. Exceptions in mask-required areas include children under 2, and those who have a clinical reason why wearing a mask would not be safe for them.
HPH continues to monitor COVID-19 trends locally and nationally and will adjust its masking policy as needed in the future.