To maintain the highest level of patient safety at Capital Health, a new process has been established for those arriving at the Emergency Departments (ED) at Capital Health Regional Medical Center and Capital Health Medical Center — Hopewell. Upon arrival, patients will be met by a clinical greeter who will assess their condition. Patients with respiratory illness concerns for COVID-19 will be evaluated by specially trained staff in new screening facilities adjacent to the ED. All other patients will be evaluated in our standard emergency department facilities.
“As an added safety measure during the current health crisis, patients coming to our Emergency Departments will be screened before entering,” said Dr. Louis D’Amelio, Vice President of Clinical Performance at Capital Health. “From there, we will either bring them into the hospital or the new treatment area based on the urgency of their condition or illness. After that, patients who require the resources inside of our hospital will be brought in as necessary.”
COVID-19 symptoms include fever, cough, and difficulty breathing, some of which are similar to the common cold, flu or allergies. If you’re not feeling well, start by contacting your primary care provider for instructions to be screened for appropriate testing. If you are having a medical emergency, call 9-1-1.
Patients who are tested for COVID-19 at Capital Health are kept in isolation. Staff caring for these patients wear protective equipment to limit spread of the virus, and any material or equipment they come in contact with is rigorously disinfected. This strict protocol is the same that would be used for a patient who tests positive for COVID-19 or flu.
Like all hospitals, Capital Health cares for patients with respiratory disease and is treating patients with COVID-19 illness in accordance with CDC guidelines. With these safety measures in place, patients can be reassured that it remains safe to receive care at both Capital Health hospitals.