Masks welcome but no longer required

Oct 30, 2023

Face masks are welcome but are no longer required at MyMichigan Health medical centers, medical offices and outpatient clinics.

The decision comes three years after MyMichigan, along with health systems across the nation, were first required to implement masking during the COVID-19 pandemic. The change will go into effect on Thursday, May 11, marked as the official end of the Public Health Emergency. Masking protocols will remain in place for COVID-19 patients and their care team.

“This has certainly been a journey for all of us, not just in health care, but all industries, education, our communities alike,” said Lydia Watson, M.D., president and CEO, MyMichigan Health. “While COVID-19 indeed pushed us forward in areas of progress such as telemedicine, we are simply overjoyed to be on the other side of this crisis. The pandemic changed all of us in some way. There will be lessons learned and emotions felt surrounding this experience for years to come.”

While the masking has lifted, MyMichigan Health continues to recommend those that are sick to stay home as to not spread infection. In addition, the best way to prevent the spread of this virus is proper hygiene, such as hand washing and not touching our faces.

“Although COVID-19 is no longer a pandemic, people can still contract the virus. So, we’ll continue to monitor data and implement safety measures needed as guided by the CDC,” said Dr. Watson. “But, we’re hopeful that returning to pre-pandemic masking and visitation policies at our health care facilities will give people the confidence that we can live with the virus and can go on with normal life.”

Sign up for email newsletters