SCH will post daily updates on website and Facebook Page regarding COVID-19

Stephens County Hospital is posting daily updates on the Coronavirus on its website and Facebook Page to keep residents informed.

According to Vice President of Physicians Practices Van Loskoski the updates will be posted daily at 9:30 a.m.

He says the hospital has activated its Emergency Plan.

“At this time, Stephens County Hospital has activated our Emergency Operations Plan in response to the spread of COVID-19,” he said. “As of this point, we have tested three individuals for the virus, we have no positive cases at this point. We have two results pending, and one negative result. No patients have been hospitalized at this point. Four patients are quarantined at home, and three of those are under quarantine, pending results and monitoring.”

Loskoski says the hospital has a limited number of test available; therefore, only those who meet the required guidelines by the CDC will be tested.

“At this time, we are working with the Department of Public Health and LabCorp to be able to test patients for the virus. There is a very limited supply of test kits available nationwide. As such, we are only able to test patients at high risk from the virus who are potential carriers based on CDC guidelines,” he said. “Those at highest risk are older adults with certain chronic conditions, like heart disease, diabetes, and lung disease. Others who are at risk are those who have come in contact with someone who has or is suspected of having the virus. Symptoms of COVID-19 are fever and signs of respiratory illness, like cough, wheezing, or shortness of breath.”

If you think you have the virus you are asked to contact your health care provider by phone.

He says the best way to avoid catching the virus is to wash your hands frequently, and by limiting your exposure to others and avoiding large gatherings.

According to Loskoski, the hospital has implemented the following protocols.

The hospital has limited the points of entry into the hospital to the Emergency Department and Labor and Delivery Department.

He adds that all patients will be allowed one designated support person, this support person will receive a wrist band, similar to the one’s patients wear.

Anyone coming to the hospital or its other facilities will have their temperature taken before gaining entrance to the facility.

Lastly, the hospital cafeteria is indefinitely closed to the public.

For questions regarding the recent changes at Stephens County Hospital, contact staff by calling 706-282-4296.