A patient has been identified through reference lab testing with the first presumptive case of COVID-19, the disease caused by the novel coronavirus, or SARS-CoV-2, at Phillips County Health Systems (PCHS). The patient was screened in the designated COVID-19 screening pod in front of the Emergency Department at the Phillips County Hospital and was further examined in the isolated exam room within the ER. These designated and isolated areas were set up to prevent the spread of the virus to other patients, staff, and the community.
Upon arrival, caregivers wearing protective personal gear provided the patient with a mask and coordinated the patient’s screening in the COVID-19 screening pod and then escorted the patient into the hospital for further examination in one of the isolated ER rooms. No patients, visitors, or caregivers were exposed. PCHS followed the CDC and KDHE guidelines to protect our community, patients, and staff from exposure.
The patient is currently quarantining at home and their health is improving. We will not share information about patients diagnosed or admitted for COVID-19 in order to protect their privacy as required by HIPAA. PCHS is working in tandem with the Phillips County Health Department and the Phillips County Emergency Operations Center for contact exposure tracing and notifying people at risk of exposure per their protocols. All questions related to public safety should be directed to the EOC.
PCHS’ top priority is the safety of our patients, staff, and our community. Our medical team and community health partners have been well prepared for this inevitable event. The correct tools and techniques are in place to protect and care for our community. We are equipped and ready.
While some patient appointments have been postponed or delayed already due to our COVID-19 protocols, patients who have appointments are safe to keep their medical and outpatient appointments. You can also contact the Phillips County Medical Clinic about setting up a virtual telehealth visit by calling 785-543-5211.
COVID-19 is now officially in our community. Please continue to stay home, wash your hands, and take all the necessary precautions.
If you have questions or concerns about the novel coronavirus, please call the Phillips County EOC at 785-540-4262 or Infection Control Nurse at PCHS Jaime Baker, RN at 785-543-5226.