PHOENIX, Ariz. – Banner Health, one of Arizona's largest healthcare providers, will reinstate a mandatory masking policy for all individuals – including staff, patients, and visitors – at its hospitals and healthcare facilities across the state, effective January 1st, the company announced Wednesday. The decision comes in response to a significant uptick in influenza cases and other respiratory illnesses impacting the region, straining healthcare resources and posing a heightened risk to vulnerable populations.
The move aims to mitigate the spread of respiratory viruses within Banner Health facilities and protect both patients and healthcare workers. This marks a reversal from the organization's previous policy, which had relaxed masking requirements earlier in the year as COVID-19 case numbers declined.
"Our priority is always the safety of our patients and staff," said Dr. Marjorie Bessel, chief clinical officer for Banner Health, in a prepared statement. "We are seeing a substantial increase in flu and other respiratory viruses, and masking is a proven and effective way to reduce transmission in healthcare settings. We believe this temporary measure is necessary to protect those we serve and those who dedicate their lives to caring for others."
The mandatory masking policy will apply to all Banner Health hospitals, clinics, outpatient centers, and other healthcare locations throughout Arizona. Individuals will be required to wear a well-fitting mask that covers their nose and mouth at all times while inside these facilities. Acceptable masks include surgical masks, N95 respirators, and KN95 masks. Cloth masks, while providing some level of protection, are not explicitly mentioned as being discouraged or disallowed in the company's public statements.
Banner Health joins a growing number of healthcare organizations nationwide that are reimplementing masking policies in response to the current surge in respiratory illnesses. Health experts have warned of a potentially severe flu season, coupled with ongoing COVID-19 activity and other viruses like RSV (respiratory syncytial virus), creating a "tripledemic" that could overwhelm hospitals.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that individuals stay up-to-date on their vaccinations, including annual flu shots and COVID-19 boosters, to protect themselves and others from respiratory illnesses. The CDC also advises practicing good hygiene, such as frequent handwashing and covering coughs and sneezes, to prevent the spread of viruses.
The specific duration of Banner Health's mask mandate remains unspecified but is expected to be in effect until the surge in respiratory illnesses subsides and is continuously being monitored by the organization's infectious disease experts. The health system will regularly reassess the situation and adjust the policy accordingly based on the latest data and guidance from public health authorities.
“We understand that masking can be an inconvenience, but we believe it is a necessary precaution during this time,” Bessel added. “We appreciate the cooperation of our patients, visitors, and staff in helping us protect our community.”
Beyond masking, Banner Health is also implementing other measures to address the surge in respiratory illnesses, including increasing staffing levels, expanding capacity at its facilities, and promoting vaccination efforts. The health system is encouraging individuals to seek medical care if they experience symptoms of respiratory illness, such as fever, cough, sore throat, and body aches.
For more information about Banner Health's masking policy and other efforts to combat respiratory illnesses, individuals can visit the organization's website or contact their healthcare provider. The website also details visitor restrictions that may be in place at specific facilities due to the surge.
The reinstated mask mandate represents a proactive approach by Banner Health to safeguard its patients, employees, and the broader community during this challenging flu season. By taking these steps, the healthcare system aims to minimize the impact of respiratory illnesses on its operations and ensure that Arizonans have access to the care they need.
