Press Release
Date: March 27, 2023
For: IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Randolph Health Lifts Universal Masking Requirements
Asheboro, N.C., -On March 28, 2023 at 7:00 a.m., all Randolph Health facilities will lift universal masking
requirements for patients, visitors and team members. The decision to make masks optional was made
in collaboration with other regional healthcare systems, including Novant Health, Atrium Health, Atrium
Health Wake Forest Baptist, CaroMont Health, and Cone Health.
As encouraged during the COVID-19 pandemic and flu season, everyone should consider their personal
risk when considering masking. Patients may request their care teams to wear masks during treatment
and clinic visits.
While universal masking will no longer be required, certain exceptions apply, including wearing masks
when respiratory virus symptoms are present and in treatment areas for high-risk patients, including
those in isolation.
As the threat from respiratory viruses, including COVID-19, flu and RSV evolve, Randolph Health will
routinely assess risks to patients, visitors and team members. Should additional protection be needed,
Randolph Health may implement safety guidelines, including updating visitor restrictions, masking
requirements and encourage vaccines.
Anyone experiencing respiratory virus symptoms is encouraged to help control the spread of the illness
by not visiting patients in the hospital. Symptoms include fever, headaches/body aches/pain, cough or
sore throat, stuffy or runny nose, chills, fatigue, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.
To reduce the risk of contracting a respiratory illness, health care systems recommend frequent
handwashing with soap or using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer; not touching eyes, nose or mouth with
the hands; and getting an annual flu vaccine and COVID-19 vaccine and/or recommended boosters.