May 1, 2024

Attention: ZSFG All Staff

Updated Masking Guidelines at ZSFG Effective Today

The San Francisco Health Officer Order that required masking in all healthcare settings has expired and returned decision-making back to individual medical centers and health networks. ZSFG has updated masking guidelines after engaging in broad multi-stakeholder discussions throughout ZSFG and across the San Francisco Health Network with input from a wide variety of clinical areas and programs serving our diverse patient population. Please see the memo summarizing the full guidance. With the goal of optimizing patient care as well as patient and staff safety, the following briefly summarizes guidance on masking practices at ZSFG effective today, May 1, 2024, including all inpatient and outpatient locations on campus.

(click for PDF)

At times of heightened transmission of respiratory illnesses, during outbreaks, or in case of a new and emerging disease challenge, masks may be temporarily required due to elevated risks of exposure to staff and patients. We will keep you updated if and when masking requirements are augmented.

While our masking policies are changing, and while much progress has been made in mitigating the impacts of COVID-19, please remember that respiratory viruses circulate year-round, and that COVID-19 remains an ongoing challenge for patients and staff. If you are experiencing symptoms or are diagnosed with COVID-19, please contact Occupational Health (OHS) at 628-206-4100 to discuss your work plans. Thank you for all you do to make ZSFG a safe, calm, and welcoming atmosphere for all our patients and our staff. If you have questions about the new guidance, please contact your unit manager.

Attachments:
- Updated Masking Guidelines at ZSFG Effective Today (this message as a PDF)
- SFHN Memo
- Masking Guidelines Chart