Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) updates and guidance The latest on COVID-19: Updated 4/6/2020 While the news about the new coronavirus (COVID-19) changes by the minute, we want to empower the public to safeguard their health and that of family members. If You're Sick Call your doctor's office if you have a fever and respiratory symptoms and are concerned about possible exposure to COVID-19. Telehealth: We are increasing our use of telehealth video visits. These visits allow you to stay in the safety and comfort of your home, while providing a real-time connection (similar to FaceTime or Skype) with your healthcare provider on a mobile device, phone or computer. Testing: For now, we are partnering with the Massachusetts Department of Public Health on patient testing. Talk with your doctor if you have symptoms of COVID-19. Information for providers. Insurance coverage: Health insurers in Massachusetts will cover the full cost of testing, counseling, treatment, and vaccination for COVID-19. Safety and Prevention Everyone can do their part to slow the spread of COVID-19. Donations: We are asking for donations of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Facemasks: The CDC now recommends "wearing cloth face coverings in public settings." This is especially important in areas where it is difficult to socially distance yourself (standing at least six feet from other people), such as grocery stores and pharmacies. The CDC does not recommend using surgical masks or N-95 respirators, as this depletes the supplies available to healthcare workers and first responders. Learn more about the face covering recommendation and how to make your own face covering from items in your house. Policy Updates Visitor policy: We're taking precautions in our hospitals. We are not allowing any visitors in our hospitals as of 3/18/20, with some exceptions. As of 3/21/20, valet parking services will be suspended at Baystate Medical Center's Daly, Wesson, Chestnut, Emergency Department and Baystate Wing Hospital entrances. Valet services will currently remain open at the D'Amour Center for Cancer Care at 3350 Main Street. Learn more. Staying in the hospital: Updated guidelines for patients. Birthing policy: As of 3/28, birthing partners may remain with the patient until discharge. Learn more. What to do: To protect yourself and others If you're sick To prepare in case of being hospitalized Stay Up to Date on Coronavirus News Massachusetts Governor Charlie Baker has ordered all non-essential businesses to cease in-person operations. Baker also declared a state of emergency and closed all public and private schools across the state. Read our frequently asked questions about COVID-19. Get familiar with coronavirus terms to know. The status of COVID-19 is changing constantly. Be sure to check reliable sources for information. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) information for the public CDC Information for healthcare professionals Massachusetts Department of Public Health