Summa Health is implementing additional safety protocols as we return to standard operations

Posted June 19, 2020 by Dr. Vivek Bhalla

COVID-19 has forever changed our society. As cases continue to stabilize in Ohio and the stay-at-home order has been lifted, it’s time to navigate our way forward with our new normal — together.

In accordance with Governor Mike DeWine and the Ohio Department of Health, Summa Health is now scheduling procedures and surgeries.

While we understand resuming services for preexisting conditions and preventative measures is critical to the overall health of our community, we are moving into this next phase with an abundance of caution.

While serving our patients in a clean and safe environment has always been of utmost importance, we are redoubling our efforts due to COVID-19.

At all of our facilities we are implementing additional protocols to ensure your safety and the safety of our employees while we reopen and return to standard operations, including:

·      Screening everyone prior to entering our facilities. We are taking temperatures of all patients, visitors and employees prior to entering the hospitals, and patients and visitors when appropriate at practices in medical centers.

·      Keeping modified visitor restrictions in place to limit the number of people in our facilities.

·      Practicing strict social distancing in all areas, including waiting rooms. 

·      Universal masking. We are requiring all staff members, patients and visitors to wear a face mask at all of our facilities. Exceptions will be allowed in situations involving those who are unable to wear a mask because of a health condition.We continue to have adequate supply of personal protective equipment (PPE) for all of our staff. 

·      Cleaning and disinfecting all areas thoroughly and repeatedly. We’ve also removed high-touch point items, such as magazines and toys from our waiting rooms.

·      Promoting telehealth visits whenever possible. Your appointment may be rescheduled as a phone or video visit to limit your exposure.

In addition, we encourage you to continue to follow the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines regarding social distancing and hand hygiene as we reopen to the community.

Rest assured, while we may look a little different, the high-quality care you’ve come to rely on remains unchanged.

So don’t delay your medical needs or ignore symptoms that you would typically visit an emergency center or call your doctor about. If you postponed an appointment or procedure due to COVID-19, we urge you to contact your provider’s office to get it rescheduled. As always, early detection and treatment improve our ability to provide the most comprehensive and effective care for you.

If you have questions or concerns about COVID – 19 or think you may be experiencing symptoms, call our 24/7 COVID-19 hotline to speak with a trained nurse at 234.867.6314 or visit summahealth.org/coronavirus. Just make sure to call the office first before going in.