By Journal Staff

IRON MOUNTAIN — The Oscar G. Johnson VA Medical Center on Tuesday announced it is implementing COVID-19 health protection levels as part of Veterans Administration’s consistent, nationwide approach for veterans health. Administration facilities will adjust COVID-19 safety protocols locally as needed.

The three VHA COVID-19 health protection levels — low, medium, and high — align with community transmission levels reported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, which are based on new COVID cases and percentage of positive tests.

Using the CDC’s guidance, clinical staff and facility leadership will determine the appropriate health protection level for the main hospital and each of the outlying community-based outpatient clinics and update levels on a weekly basis accordingly, the center said.

“Our local veterans are resolute about receiving their care at our facilities and we want to keep them safe during the ups and downs of COVID-19 community spread,” said Zachary Sage, acting medical center director, in a statement. “Instead of increasing or decreasing access to care, safety protocols will be adjusted based on COVID-19 levels in the community.”

Masks and physical distancing are still required regardless of the health protection level, and the VA will continue to actively screen veterans and visitors at its entrances, but staff will adjust safety protocols and operational practices to maintain safe access to quality care within each level.

At this time, veterans are still allowed to have a caregiver or supportive care partner attend visits with them if necessary, but VHA will continue to follow all CDC and federal COVID guidelines for safe provision of care and communicate any required changes as they are made.

Visit www.ironmountain.va.gov for current protection levels in your area. Visit www.va.gov/coronavirus-veteran-frequently-asked-questions/ for questions and answers regarding the VHA COVID-19 health protection levels. For more information specific to the Iron Mountain VA Medical Center, contact Public Affairs at 906-774-3300, extension 32001.