With the understandable concern over the COVID-19 pandemic, Liberty Regional Medical Center has continued to provide full emergency and inpatient services as well as limited outpatient services, the hospital announced.
“Liberty Regional is beginning to gradually open up services again for our patients” says Tammy Mims, CEO. “In doing so, we are following stringent guidelines and taking every precaution necessary to protect our patients and staff.”
In addition, Liberty Regional is working closely with the local and state Departments of Public Health as well as the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) to coordinate local public health response efforts, according to the announcement.
To date, the organization has received overwhelming support and supplies from the community in the form of masks, face shields, gloves, shoe and head covers, hand sanitizer, thermometers and probe covers, and lots of meals and goodies for staff, officials said.
Liberty Regional reported the following stats related to COVID-19:
• 94 tests administered to the community
• 4 positive tests from the community, 2 admitted to the hospital and 2 recoveries at home.
• 81 negative tests
• 9 awaiting results
• 4 recoveries
• 0 deaths
In addition, LRMC reported no staff members test positive to date.
Liberty Regional currently is equipped with test kits, PPE and all necessary protocols in place for screening those who have the need, the hospital said.
The organization said it is is also following best practice recommendations and proper infection prevention protocols such as a no visitation policy and required masking for those entering the facility, including staff.
In its announcement of a shift back toward reopening services, LRMC said its staff continues to perform best practices in infection prevention such as frequent hand hygiene with soap and water and alcohol hand sanitizer.
“In addition, they are required to notify the Infection Prevention Director of any symptoms such as cough, fever, sore throat, shortness of breath, loss of taste and smell, new muscle aches and known exposure to anyone positive with COVID-19. Those in the community experiencing any of these symptoms should contact their primary care physician immediately,” the announcement said.
In addition, LRMC said it hasdeveloped a strategy and emergency response protocol to accommodate potential surges in patients.
”Fortunately we have not experienced a high patient census with a COVID-19 diagnosis” Mims said. “However, we remain vigilant and ready to accommodate a spike if one should arise.”
Liberty Regional reminds the community to adhere to best practices related to hand hygiene, including frequent hand washing with soap and water or alcohol hand sanitizer, comply with any statewide mandates, continue to practice social distancing in public spaces, and use discernment in all travel, shopping, or other activities away from the home.
Mims said: “The spread of this virus is especially concerning for our medically fragile and elderly populations. So adherence to these best practices not only help to keep you and your family safe and healthy but protects those who are most vulnerable as well.”
If you, or someone you know, is concerned about their potential exposure or is exhibiting signs consistent with COVID-19 symptoms, testing is available at Diversity Health Center locations in Hinesville, Ludowici and Jesup. The Department of Public Health Coastal Health District is offering specific dates for testing as well. Additionally, COVID-19 hotlines are available. The Coastal Health District’s hotline number is 912-230-9744 and accepts calls Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. and on Saturday from 8:30 a.m. until 5 p.m.. The state Department of Public Health hotline is 844-442-2681 and is open 8 a.m. until 5 p.m.