With limited exceptions, MD Anderson closing to visitors amid heightened coronavirus concerns

In an effort to shelter its patients and staff from the coronavirus, the MD Anderson Cancer Center will no longer allow visitors on its campuses, effective March 24, with limited exceptions.

“By limiting visitors until further notice, we will protect our patients, who are uniquely vulnerable to COVID-19,” the cancer center wrote in a post on its Facebook page on March 22. “We will also protect our staff to ensure their sustained health and availability to care for patients.”

The measure is temporary, the cancer center wrote in the post.

Meanwhile, additional employees will be on-site to assist patients with traveling between appointments, and patients are encouraged to bring smart devices to connect during their appointments with family members.

However, exceptions will be made in allowing one adult visitor who has no symptoms of fever, cough or shortness of breath.

These exceptions include:

• pediatric patients who require one adult parent or guardian;
• same-day surgery or outpatient surgery patients who need one adult to hear discharge instructions and provide a safe ride home; and
• patients who need a visitor for assistance due to physical or mental limitations or patients receiving end-of-life care.