Partner present for epidural?

Candace
So when we went for our hospital tour we were told that it is hospital policy for everyone (ie my husband) to wait in the waiting room when I get the epidural. I am not ok with him leaving my side at all during the whole labor, but especially not for that (I do very poorly when needles are involved). My Dr said that was pretty standard and that they might make an exception but no one else I've talked to (friends that are nurses or have kids) have ever heard of such a policy and all say husbands are always present. I'm at the point of considering changing hospitals (which means I'd need a new doctor) at 38 weeks over this. Anyone heard of such a policy?