Masks now optional for patients, visitors at Blessing Health System hospitals, clinics

QUINCY — For the first time since the COVID pandemic started in March 2020, masks are now optional at Blessing Health System hospitals and clinics for patients and visitors.

The change to Blessing Health’s masking policy was made Tuesday and confirmed by the marketing, communication and community relations department. The only exception is for anybody in the Blessing Hospital Emergency Center or if the individual has a cough or other respiratory symptoms.

Blessing Health’s masking policy previously called for masks to be worn by everyone in all patient care areas and in all public facing areas including hallways, cafeteria, the Tea Room, etc. Staff members who were current on all eligible COVID vaccines were allowed remove their masks in non-patient care areas such as offices and conference rooms.