By: Donovan W. Mann – [email protected]
Humboldt, IA – HCMH plans to use a phase in approach to providing previously postponed medical services during the on going COVID-19 pandemic.
The CEO of Humboldt County Memorial Hospital, Michelle Sleiter informs KHBT the Humboldt County Memorial Hospital 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.
The phased in approach being taken by HCHM is designed to resume medical services safely while they continue to do their part to stop the spread of COVID-19. The first phase includes resuming non-urgent/non-emergent medical, diagnostic radiology and laboratory services. Physical, occupational and speech therapies for all ages in the wellness hub will also resume. Cardiopulmonary, cardiac rehab, sleep studies, diabetes and nutrition therapy are also set to resume.
HCMH also plans to resume outpatient clinic services and surgeries on a case by case basis. New protocols and procedure clearances will be put in place to ensure they are following all state guidelines.
As part of this plan HCMH is implementing several measures to enforce social distancing in waiting and registration areas and staggering scheduled appoints.
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.
Sleiter assures that due to the dedicated and around-the-clock work of the staff at HCMH they are confident in their ability to care for the community through the COVID-19 pandemic. She also says that at this time they have and adequate supply of personal protective equipment (PPE) and continue to secure more.
She concludes by saying that “Our care team is comprised of very talented and compassionate individuals ready to safely serve YOU.” HCMH would like to thank the community for their patience and continued support.