NEBRASKA — Nebraskans will no longer be required to wear masks at all times at most Nebraska hospitals.

In a joint statement, Bryan Health, Boys Town, CHI Health, Children’s Hospital and Medical Center, Madonna, Methodist System and Nebraska Medicine said they will be making masking optional starting next week. The facilities say they are moving away from face coverings with the COVID-19 health emergency set to end on May 11.

While the masking rules are relaxing, they're not going away entirely. The facilities say that masking will still be required in certain areas where they were necessary prior to the pandemic. The statement says patients can request that all staff members interacting with them wear masks.