Evergreen Reporter

Gov. Jay Inslee (D) announced that long-term care facilities will now be allowed to offer visitation as well as a number of other activities — a change since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic — according to a press release from the governor’s office.

While certain metrics must be met at these facilities in order to have continued improvement in fighting the pandemic, its especially important given the at-risk nature of those at long-term care facilities, but residents and families will now be allowed to make visits. 

Phase 1 will allow for window, remote or outdoor visits. Phase 2 will allow for the same activities with the addition of limited indoor activities for those who cannot make it outside for visits. Phase 3 will include limited indoor visits for all residents, according to the press release. 

The return of normal visitation practices will not return until Phase 4.

“This phased plan will allow families to begin to spend some time together while not compromising the health and safety of the Washingtonians most susceptible to the virus,” DSHS secretary, Cheryl Strange, said in the press release.