Inland NW Hospital Visitor Limits Due to Illness Surge

Spokane, Wash. – Jan. 12, 2026 – Visitors to several hospitals and clinics in Spokane and Stevens Counties will face new restrictions starting today, Jan. 12, as respiratory illnesses surge in the region. It’s a familiar story, isn’t it? Just when we think we’re past it, another wave hits, and healthcare facilities have to tighten the screws to protect patients and staff.

Visitor Limits return to Eastern Washington Hospitals

Temporary restrictions aim to curb the spread of respiratory viruses.

• Visitation hours are limited to 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.at most facilities.
• patients can have a maximum of two visitors at a time.
• visitors under 18 are restricted from certain areas,including women’s health and labor & delivery.
• Masks are recommended for all visitors.

What’s driving these changes? – A recent increase in respiratory illnesses prompted Providence Inland Northwest to temporarily restrict visitations at its facilities in Spokane and Stevens Counties. The goal is to minimize the spread of viruses like influenza,RSV,and COVID-19,protecting vulnerable patients and ensuring adequate staffing levels.

Wich Facilities Are affected?

The restrictions apply to Sacred Heart Medical Center, Holy Family Hospital, Mount Carmel hospital, St. Joseph’s Hospital, and St. Luke’s Rehabilitation Medical Center. Though, Pediatric, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), and Labor and Delivery units are exempt from the limited visitation hours.

While most areas will have limited hours, the most vulnerable patients – newborns and those in critical care – will still be able to receive more consistent support from loved ones.

Patients are permitted to have up to two visitors simultaneously. The health care provider has specified that visitors under the age of 18 will not be allowed in specific areas, including the Women’s Health Center and Labor and Delivery units.The hospital system strongly recommends that all visitors wear a mask while on hospital grounds.

Understanding the Restrictions

These measures aren’t meant to be punitive, but rather a proactive step to safeguard the health of everyone involved. Hospitals are already stretched thin, and an outbreak within a facility could quickly overwhelm resources. Limiting visitors and encouraging mask-wearing are proven strategies to slow transmission.

For detailed, hospital- and department-specific guidelines, please refer to Providence’s visitation policy hear.

Do you think these restrictions are a necessary precaution, or do they go too far? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

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