HCMH to resume non-emergency services


Humboldt County Memorial Hospital Chief Executive Officer Michelle Sleiter announced Wednesday that over the coming weeks the hospital will safely and cautiously resume outpatient clinic services and surgeries on a case-by-case basis, along with resuming non-emergent medical, diagnostic radiology and laboratory services. The hospital will continue to enforce social distancing and all health safety protocols, including screenings for fever and respiratory symptoms upon entering the facility.

From Michelle Sleiter, CEO
Humboldt County Memorial Hospital (HCMH) will begin a phased approach to safely resume services, effective immediately.
The decision was made in accordance with Governor Kim Reynold’s recent declaration of Iowa’s initiative to begin lifting restrictions on health care services. HCMH’s phased approach is designed to resume medical services safely while continuing to do our part to stop the spread of COVID-19.
This first phase includes resuming non-urgent/non-emergent medical, diagnostic radiology and laboratory services that have been on hold since March 23. These noninvasive tests and procedures include magnetic resonance imaging scans (MRI’s), computed tomography scans (CTs), CT calcium scoring, bone density imaging, CT lung cancer screenings and mammography.
Physical, occupational and speech therapies for all ages in our wellness hub will also resume; as well as cardiopulmonary, cardiac rehab, sleep studies, diabetes and nutrition therapy.
Over the next few weeks, HCMH also plans to safely and cautiously resume outpatient clinic services and surgeries on a case-by-case basis. New protocols and procedure clearances will be put in place to ensure we are following all state guidelines.
We recognize that many patients, including some with serious medical conditions, have put off seeking medical care and had to delay procedures and surgeries. The need for medical intervention is essential to the overall health and well-being of these patients and we want to get them in as soon as possible. However, as we gradually open up services, we will continue to offer telehealth services, rather than in-person services whenever possible for the safety of our patients and staff.
As part of this plan, HCMH has implemented several measures to enforce social distancing in waiting and registration areas and staggering scheduled appointments.
Additional safety enhancements include:
• All employees, providers, patients and visitors will continue to be screened for fever and respiratory symptoms upon entering our facility.
• Patients and visitors are encouraged to wear their own face covering. Those who do not have a face covering and show signs or symptoms of respiratory illness will be given a surgical mask to wear.
• Employees and providers caring for patients will be provided the recommended personal protective equipment (PPE).
• The no-visitor policy remains in place for our hospital, Long Term Care and Springvale Senior Living.
• Our cafeteria and gift shop will remain closed until further notice.
• Infection prevention best practices including thorough cleaning and sterilization in between each and every patient visit, will continue.
Due to the dedicated and around-the-clock work of our staff we are confident in our ability to care for you and your loved ones as we fight against the coronavirus. We have an adequate supply of personal protective equipment (PPE) and we continue to secure more. Our care team is comprised of very talented and compassionate individuals ready to safely serve YOU.
Thank you for your patience and continued support.

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