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VDMC to limit some non-essential services

In order to minimize the risk of exposure and to provide the best care for communities, while protecting the health and well-being of patients and caregivers, Van Diest Medical Center officials announced Wednesday that the facility would be following the most recent updates and recommendations of the Centers for Disease and Prevention (CDC) including the temporary suspension some non-essential procedures and services throughout their hospital and clinics effective Wednesday.

This temporary suspension would include elective surgeries, procedures and screenings. All diagnostic procedures and appointments as well as essential healthcare visits will continue as usual. The suspension will continue through April 15 and the hospital will monitor the situation based on community health care changes.

Officials also said at the discretion of physicians and providers, the hospital is evaluating some specialty and outpatient services to determine their essential need during this suspension period. Hospital and clinic personnel will be contacting patients to reschedule non-essential appointments and will re-evaluate after the 30-day period.

In addition, hospital officials are exploring further tele-health opportunities and quickly working to implement phone and video visits for certain specific patient types that may not require an in-person visit.

The hospital has also taken additional precautions in their Garden View Café to minimize exposure by removing the salad bar; separating and clearing tables in the dining area. Similarly, hospital officials are discouraging the general public from coming into the hospital for meals during this state-issued Public Health Disaster Emergency.

The hospital and clinics will continue to screen every visitor and staff member at each entry point into the facilities by documenting name, body temperature, travel history, and desired location. Limited visitor restrictions also continue to remain in place throughout the hospital.

COVID-19 guidelines and recommendations are changing daily, often multiple times a day, and Van Diest Medical Center in partnership with Hamilton County Public Health, will continue to provide the most up-to-date information to our communities. For the latest CDC guidelines regarding COVID-19, visit www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/. Anyone with general questions about COVID-19 are directed to please call 2-1-1.

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