Sanford Bemidji Joe Lueken Cancer Center

Due to a recent increase in respiratory illnesses in the Bemidji region, Sanford Bemidji Medical Center and Sanford Bagley Medical Center have implemented visitor restrictions.

These restrictions will take effect at 7 a.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 23, 2025, and will remain in place until further notice.

Visitor guidelines include:

• Up to four visitors per patient per day.
• All visitors 15 years or younger must be accompanied by an adult.
• One visitor may stay overnight as an emotional support person.

Masking guidelines:

• Masks are strongly encouraged for patients and visitors, especially if showing signs of respiratory illness.
• Masks are required for visitors in the following areas:
  • Special Care Nursery
  • Intensive Care Unit (ICU)
  • Joe Lueken Cancer Center (patients and visitors)

Additional restrictions: Individuals who are ill or showing symptoms should not visit.

Special Care Nursery: No more than two visitors at a time, one of whom must be a parent/caregiver wearing an infant ID band. All visitors must be six years or older and wear a mask at all times. Visits are limited to 15 minutes.

Specific visitation requests may be accommodated at the discretion of the department director.