“As we slowly and carefully ease restrictions, we will be
working with the Allegany County Health Department to monitor for any spikes in
COVID-19 in the county,” said Dr. Kevin McCormick, the medical director at
Jones Memorial. “It is like we are turning the dial a little at a time, observing
to assure no harmful effects, and moving forward gradually.”
This week Jones Memorial has started Phase One of the New
Normal. The number of patients being seen in the Jones Memorial Medical
Practices has been expanded and the hospital has started scheduling a limited
number of elective surgery procedures. “Our patients will notice when they come
to the hospital or the medical practices, that it is not business as usual,”
said Eva Benedict, CEO at Jones. “Adjustments have been made in every area to
ensure the safety or our patients and our staff.”
Here are some of the things you can expect:
• Universal
Screening & Masking: You will be asked questions about possible COVID-19
symptoms. Everyone who comes to the hospital will be provided a facemask if you
do not have one. If you have a facemask, please wear it to your appointment.
• Staggered
Scheduling: This will limit the number of patients in an area at one time. In
addition, the time for appointments will be expanded to avoid patient overlap
and ensure social distancing is maintained. If you arrive more than 15 minutes
before your appointment you may be asked to wait in your car. If you are late
for your appointment, it may need to be rescheduled.
• Telehealth:
The providers in the Jones Memorial Medical Practices will determine which
patients need to be seen in person and which are candidates for telehealth
appointments.
• Registration
Changes: In many cases, registration will be done over the phone prior to the
appointment with signatures provided upon arrival if needed. For Medical
Imaging exams, patients should go directly to the department to register.
• Limited
Support People: We will continue to restrict support people accompanying
patients to appointments. If you have a driver, they are asked to remain in the
car and will be contacted when you are ready to leave.
• Additional
Restrictions: If your provider, therapist, or technician has additional
restrictions, they will call you before your appointment to discuss them.
“It is very likely that COVID-19 will continue to be a part
of our lives for some time,” added Mrs. Benedict. “By working together and
following these precautions, we can keep our community as healthy as possible.”
If you have questions, please contact your provider’s office
or the hospital department where you will be receiving care.
