Governor's order outlines mask wearing, physical distancing in healthcare settings

Governor Lou Leon Guerrero signed an executive order into law on Monday relative to implementing mask wearing and physical distancing requirements in healthcare settings. The law went into effect this morning at midnight. All healthcare settings are now required to implement a policy for proper wearing of face masks and, where it will not interfere with the provision of care, physical distancing.

Face masks are now required waiting areas, hallways, elevators, restrooms, lobbies and other areas of a healthcare facility. Masks must also be worn at all times by all individuals in the clinics and hospitals, with certain exceptions for specific individuals, settings or activities, such as while eating or drinking.

And regardless of vaccination status all individuals in a healthcare setting must practice physical distancing of at least 6 feet provided it does not interfere with the provision of care.

Hospitals and clinics must also arrange seating so that patients and visitors can maintain at least 6 feet of physical distance.