DeQuincy Memorial makes statement regarding COVID-19

DeQuincy Memorial Hospital and clinics are concerned about the care of our patients, community and staff. We have implemented measures within our facilities to help promote the health and safety in our community.

If you are concerned you have COVID-19, we recommend seeking care from primary care physician or local physician’s office however if both options are not available then using the closest hospital’s emergency room. They can evaluate you and determine if you meet the CDC guidelines for testing based on symptoms, travel and exposure. If you meet the criteria, you will be advised on how to proceed with testing. Symptoms may include: respiratory or flu like symptoms such as fever, chills, cough, muscle aches, and sinus congestion/drainage. If these symptoms are present, The CDC recommends to limit exposure to others and contact your healthcare provider.

GOSEP Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness has also set up a COVID-19 hotline (1-855-523-2652) for those with questions or concerns.

Currently we are testing in accordance with CDC Guidelines. As this situation changes, we will continue to evolve our testing procedures.

It’s important to keep in mind that the majority of COVID-19 cases are mild and only a small percentage of patients will require hospitalization. The majority of patients should be able to recover at home. Currently care for COVID-19 patients is supportive and there are no vaccines available to treat this disease.

We encourage everyone to practice infection prevention techniques as outlined by CDC such as washing hands frequently, avoiding touching your face and covering your mouth when you cough, sneezing with a tissue or coughing into your elbow to control your cough, avoiding large crowds and staying home when you are sick.

According to Darrell Ross, Director of Nursing, the only entrance into the hospital is through the Emergency Entrance. No visitors are allowed at this time to see patients. If any out-patient has doctor’s orders for testing or diagnosis, some of those tests can be administered in their vehicle to limit exposure. Hospital employees are being screened as they enter, before their shift, for fever or other symptoms.

You may also go to the CDC website at www.cdc.gov/COVID19 for current updated information.

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