Patient Privacy
The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) includes rules pertaining to increased and standardized confidentiality and security of health data. HIPAA privacy regulations require that access to patient information be limited to only those authorized, and that only the information necessary for a task be available to them. Personal health information is always protected and kept confidential. Unless otherwise instructed, visitors of WellStar hospitals can be provided the location of a patient and general information about their condition. Read our Notice of Privacy Practices to learn more.
Visiting Hours & Policies
We believe the support of friends and family is important when a friend or loved one is ill. It is our pleasure to make this possible with a regular schedule of visiting hours that accommodate well-wishers and family members while also respecting the comfort and privacy of our patients. Please observe the following guidelines when visiting the hospital.
- All children should be accompanied by an adult.
- At times you may be asked to leave the room under special circumstances, such as special care, emergencies, or when our patient’s rights and confidentiality need to be respected.
- Please limit the number of adult visitors to two at a time.
- Visit lengths depend on the patient’s condition and needs.
- Please review additional requirements in the “Patient’s Guide” located in each patient room.
| General Hours: |
10 a.m – 9 p.m. |
| Maternity: |
You are welcome to have visitors 24 hours a day. It is up to the discretion of each physician as to how many visitors are allowed during the birth process (generally no more than 3). During epidural administration, all visitors may be asked to leave during the procedure. If you have a cesarean section, only one support person is allowed in the operating room. Physicians or nurses may limit the number of visitors at any time due to safety reasons. Children under the age of 12 are only allowed in the birthing center if they are a sibling of the newborn. |
| Critical Care Unit: |
Hours of Operation 8:30 a.m – 6:30 p.m. 6:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. (Unit closed to visitors) 7:30 p.m. – 9 p.m. |
Tobacco Policy
As of January 1, 2012, our campus is tobacco-free. Tobacco use of any kind is not permitted anywhere on hospital grounds. Your cooperation is appreciated.
Pastoral Care Hours and Availability
Monday, Thursday, Friday 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Tuesday, Wednesday, Saturday, & Sunday (On-call / Please ask any of our team-members for assistance in reaching the Chaplain)