JCHC Latest COVID-19 Release

JCHC has not experienced much change in the past 2 days. Most of the activity continues to be staff gearing up and preparing for the expected higher numbers of ill patients coming in with COVID-19. At this time, we have seen many people, are taking a lot of phone calls and testing those individuals for whom our doctors order tests.

Patient Testing

• Since Friday, March 27, we have tested 7 people. We have received 1 negative result back, and are awaiting the other 6 tests.
• JCHC has received more testing supplies and our medical providers test more individuals going forward. Please remember that testing does not change treatment of COVID-19. Adhering to guidelines for social distancing, isolation and hand hygiene are key to individual and community health during the outbreak.

Clinic Appointments

• Patients are encouraged to call clinic staff at (307) 684-2228 from home prior to arrival, or from their vehicle when they arrive. We also have a Telehealth option that is either by phone call or can be done by teleconference, as well.

Telehealth Options

• JCHC’s clinic is setting up a telehealth service for patients (basic primary care visits, consultations and wellness checks).
• The technology interfaces our Electronic Medical Record with Zoom video conferencing.
• It is ready, and we are already using it.
• In preparation for using telehealth technology for visits, it is required that people use the Follow My Health portal on the clinic’s electronic medical record system in order for our visits to be compliant with patient privacy laws.

The access link is on the front page of the Johnson County Healthcare website, or go to

https://jchealthcare.followmyhealth.com/ and complete the online form.

COVID Evaluation Center

• We have expanded our ability to deal with the COVID-19 virus in Johnson County.
• JCHC has opened a COVID Evaluation Center with the capability to evaluate patients from their vehicle or in an isolated part of the hospital.
• It is important for the public to understand that standard clinic and hospital protocols remain in effect that require people to call (307) 684-2228 in advance to undergo a phone screening prior to arriving. Based on the screening, patients will be directed to the most appropriate care setting.
• This evaluation center is located near the clinic, but is in an isolated area of JCHC, in order to reduce the spread of COVID. Patients with medical needs that are not suspected to be COVID illness are seen in the regular clinic setting. Those with suspected COVID are seen in the COVID Evaluation Center, thus reducing the spread of virus throughout the facility. This protects patients and staff members.
• This is critical to protect our healthcare team (so we have enough labor resources to care for high-acuity patients in the future) and the community at large.
• When you call and speak with a nurse, they will direct you where to park when coming into the evaluation center.
  
  

Traffic Pattern

• The traffic pattern at JCHC has changed because of the COVID evaluation clinic. Please watch for traffic signs directing drivers where to go.

Hospital Access

• When coming to JCHC, patients and staff will continue to undergo screening at all entrances for coronavirus symptoms. Our dedicated team ensures our facilities undergo high-level disinfection around the clock.

Amie Holt Care Center:

• The nursing home remains on lockdown in order to limit potential infection. Resident spirits remain high and our staff continue to meet their daily needs. Families are encouraged to work with AHCC staff to arrange telephone, video and other approved communication methods with their loved ones.

Supplies

• JCHC recently collaborated with Sheridan Memorial Hospital and Campbell County Health on a joint supply order for mass quantities of critical supplies. Potential delivery is in 1-2 weeks. JCHC expects to receive 5,000 quantity each of N95 masks, surgical masks, gowns and gloves.

• JCHC continues to conserve critical supplies throughout the entire COVID-19 outbreak. Johnson County School District is currently 3D printing 50 face shields, an important protective measure for frontline staff. They have also 3D printed sample filter masks in the event JCHC needs them. Additionally, the John and Amie Auxiliary are making reusable protective gowns.

• Community members are encouraged to donate unused masks in bins outside JCHCs’s emergency room or clinic entrances. We are grateful for the many community members who have reached out to help!

How the public can help

• Collections:
  • JCHC is accepting donations of unused surgical and N95 masks, gowns and gloves. Drop them off at the emergency room entrance or clinic entrances. A box is located just inside the doors at both locations.

• Blood Donation:
  • Healthy people are strongly encourage to donate blood during this time due to the growing blood supply shortage across the country. A blood drive will occur on April 20 from 12:30 – 6:00pm at the Johnson County Fairgrounds. Contact www.bloodhero.com for information and to make an appointment.

• Oxygen Concentrators:
  • JCHC is looking for donations of Oxygen Concentrators. Contact Julia at 684-6320 for information.

• Sewing:
  • Please contact Lois Peterson for information on what sewing needs JCHC has at this time. 684-9160