March 17, 2020 – Changes to operations will take effect this week
Healthcare facilities, including Windom Area Health, have a critical role to play in slowing the spread of COVID-19 in our communities. Some of the key measures Windom Area Health is taking include:
- Effective March 19th at 8:00 am, we are limiting inpatient visitors and visitors that accompany outpatients. One adult immediate family member, or designated caregiver, will be allowed per day for inpatients. This individual can visit up to 2 times per day. This may be a different family member/caregiver each day.
- Effective March 17th at 5:00 pm, our cafeteria will be closed to the public. Food preparation will be for patients and staff only.
- We will be limiting entry points to our main entrance this week. We are still working on the logistics and timing of this change. A screening process will also be implemented at that time. Additional information will be communicated when that change occurs via press release and social media.
- Effective immediately, our Wellness Center will be closed and all related classes cancelled through March 27th.
- Events through the next month at least are canceled. These include the Healthy Together class, Student/Parent Tours, and Easter Eggstravaganza. Childbirth classes will continue as scheduled.
The hospital has a committee that is working daily to keep updated on the COVID-19 situation. The changes outlined are both for the protection of our community and our employees. In addition, employees are limiting meetings, avoiding travel, and working from home when able.
Shelby Medina, Chief Executive Officer, notes, “Although we understand the disappointment some of these changes create, we are committed to ensuring our responsible part in keeping our community safe and healthy.” Medina plans on speaking live at the Windom City Council meeting tonight, March 17th, which is broadcast locally.
It’s important for the public to understand that COVID-19 cases range from very mild, including some with no reported symptoms, to severe. There are cases that have resulted in death. Not everyone who is exposed to this virus will experience serious or life-threatening illness, in fact, the majority of cases are mild. Older people or people of all ages with underlying health conditions such as heart disease, lung disease or diabetes, seem to be at higher risk of developing serious illness.
Individuals that think they may be sick:
- People who are mildly ill with COVID-19 are able to recover at home. Do not leave, except to get medical care.
- Seek medical care right away if your illness is worsening (for example, if you have difficulty breathing). Call your doctor before going in. Before going to the doctor’s office or emergency room, call ahead and tell them your symptoms. They will tell you what to do.
- Continue to practice good hygiene including hand washing and covering cough/sneezes.
Windom Area Health services are still operating as normal, and we encourage patients to keep their appointments, including:
- Wound & Hyperbaric Healing Center
- Outreach Clinic
- Rehabilitation (Physical, speech and occupational therapy)
- Cardiac Rehabilitation
- Inpatient/Swing Bed
- Infusions/Chemotherapy
- Lab
- Imaging
- Surgery & Pain Management
Patients can call 507-831-2400 to check on their appointment if they wish.
To keep up to date with ongoing operations updates at WAH, Click Here.
To learn more about COVID-19 and get the most accurate, up-to-date guidelines, go to the CDC website by Clicking Here.