Effective at 8 a.m. on Monday, Jan. 14, Southeastern Regional Medical Center (SRMC) will implement visitation restrictions due to the increasing trend of flu cases throughout the region.

“Influenza is widespread in our state at this time and we are taking these precautions to prevent possible spread of the virus to our patients,” said SeHealth Chief Nursing Officer Renae Taylor.

The visitation restrictions allow for two visitors, ages 18 and older, per patient, except in the emergency department, where only one visitor will be allowed per patient. Any pastor/clergy who has registered with Pastoral Care Services and has a SeHealth clergy badge will be allowed to visit. Some areas, such as ICU, may have a stricter policy as part of their normal operations. Exceptions will be made in extreme medical circumstances only.

Any individual with flu-like symptoms, including muscle aches, fever, headache, sore throat, coughing or vomiting, is asked not to visit patients at SRMC until they have been symptom-free for 24 hours. All visitors are reminded to wash hands before entering a patient room or interacting with a patient. Please note that general visiting hours are from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m.

If friends or loved ones wish to contact individuals while a patient at Southeastern Regional Medical Center, they are encouraged to call or send cards or letters. Most patients may be reached by calling (910) 671-5000 and asking for the patient by name. Please be aware of patients’ need to rest by limiting phone calls during evening hours. Letters may be addressed to Southeastern Regional Medical Center, Patient Name, Room Number, PO Box 1408, Lumberton, NC 28359.

Individuals who feel they may be sick and need to seek non-emergency medical care may visit a Southeastern Health primary care or walk-in clinic. The walk-in clinics include: Southeastern Health Mall Clinic on the campus of Biggs Park Mall, The Clinic at Walmart, The Clinic at Lumberton Drug on Fayetteville Road, and Southeastern Urgent Care Pembroke. 

*INFORMATION ABOVE IS FROM A SUBMITTED PRESS RELEASE