◆ Hotline implemented to offer updates.
Life has changed in Star Valley over the last week. People are more cautious with hygiene. Businesses are adjusting hours and services. Schools have closed.
The community’s actions are coming in response to the presence of COVID-19.
“At Star Valley Health, we stand by our mission to support individuals, families and our community in achieving their best health!,” said Joel Johnson, vice president of communications at Star Valley Health.
“We take our responsibility to Star Valley and the surrounding areas seriously and are working in partnership with Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Center for Medicare & Medicare Services (CMS) and the Wyoming Department of Health to prevent the spread of the Coronavirus (COVID-19).”
“We have implemented a hotline with up-to-date information regarding the Coronavirus, to learn more dial: 307-885-5007,” Johnson added. “We have restricted visitors to our hospital, care center and all clinics to serve our patients and staff with the best hygiene and limit any possible exposure.”
As of Monday, March 16, 2020 the below visitor restrictions are in place for the hospital and clinics:
• No one who is sick is allowed to enter the facility except to seek care for their own medical condition.
• No one under the age of 18 can enter the facility except to seek care for themselves.*
• No one is allowed to visit or accompany patients who have confirmed cases or possible COVID-19.
*Speak with a nurse or receptionist about expectations and special circumstances.
“Our elderly are the most vulnerable and as such, we have implemented increased security to best protect residents at the Star Valley Care Center,” said Johnson.
As of Monday, March 16, 2020 the below visitor restrictions are in place:
• No visitors are allowed at this time. Instead, we encourage phone calls, tele-conferencing, or letters.*
*Visitors may be allowed in an end of life situation but will be screened for illness.
Star Valley Health is also asking all community members to be vigilant in monitoring their personal health.
“If you are experiencing symptoms including: fever of 100.40 or higher; body aches; fatigue; cough; shortness of breath; sore throat – please call your provider before coming into a clinic or the ER,” Johnson said. “We will evaluate your symptoms and be able to advise you on the next steps to receive treatment. The most important thing to remember is to remain calm.”
Community Resources:
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): www.cdc.org;
• Wyoming Department of Health: www.health.wyo.gov;
• Star Valley Health: www.starvalleyhealth.org or our Facebook page;
• Star Valley Health Information Hotline: 307-885-5007.
