Ozark Radio News had the opportunity to sit down and discuss the new COVID-19 related restrictions at Ozarks Medical Center.
Ozarks Medical Center (OMC) has implemented a higher level of restrictions as of March 16, to continue to help reduce the possibility of spreading COVID-19 throughout the community. OMC joins many other healthcare organizations in proactively deploying these restrictions as recommended by the CDC and the Missouri Department of Health.
As of March 16, the restrictions include:
1. All patients and visitors will be required to enter the hospital through a single entrance located through the doors on the North side of the building beside the emergency department.
2. No one under the age of 18, who is not seeking treatment, will be allowed in the hospital.
3. Each patient will be limited to one visitor per patient, per day.
4. OMC Pharmacy Drive-thru will be the only location open for pharmacy services.
The existing restrictions put into place on March 13, are still in effect when visiting any OMC facility.
5. Anyone who has had a fever or who has felt sick within the previous 24 hours, and is not receiving treatment, should avoid visiting all OMC facilities for the protection of others including the hospital, and outpatient clinics.
6. Anyone with a scheduled appointment at an OMC facility should attend alone unless extra assistance is needed. Everyone should check their temperature before arriving at a facility. If they experience a fever before arrival, please call to reschedule.
“If you have questions about symptoms or exposure, please call Missouri’s dedicated COVID-19 hotline. If you develop symptoms such as fever, cough, and/or difficulty breathing, and have been in close contact with a person know to have COVID-19 or have recently traveled from an area with an ongoing spread of COVID-19, stay home and call your healthcare provider for guidance,” says Dr. Curtis Horstman, Medical Director of OMC Emergency Department. “Patients that need to be seen for emergencies and that also have a fever, are asked to call before their arrival, so that we may properly isolate them.”
OMC continues to operate at full capacity to meet the needs of the communities they serve. These proactive steps are put in place to limit the possible transmission of COVID-19 and other viruses. OMC will continue to provide care to all who seek treatment at their facilities.
If you have questions about exposure or symptoms, please call 877-435-8411 to be screened before going to the emergency department or your primary care provider.
