Optim Health System and Optim Orthopedics continue to closely monitor the coronavirus (COVID-19), and are in regular communication with local, state, and national health officials.
For the safety of our patients, visitors and staff during this time, we are taking additional precautionary measures and appreciate your patience and cooperation as we navigate the rapidly evolving coronavirus (COVID-19) situation together.
CALL AHEAD PROCESS FOR PATIENTS WITH FLU-LIKE SYMPTOMS
Before arriving in person at any of our Optim Health System or Optim Orthopedics clinics, Optim Medical Center-Tattnall, Optim Medical Center-Screven, or Optim Surgery Center, we ask anyone with a fever, cough and shortness of breath to please call the clinic or facility first for a brief phone screening and instructions.
CLICK HERE for list of all Optim clinic and facility locations and phone numbers.
EXPANDED PATIENT SCREENINGS
Optim Health System and Optim Orthopedics are following the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) travel screening guidelines. All PATIENTS, and VISITORS accompanying patients, will be asked a list of questions based on the CDC guidelines and recommendations when they arrive for an appointment at:
- Optim Medical Center-Tattnall hospital; orthopedic, neurosurgery, and pain management clinics; and rural health clinics
- Optim Medical Center-Screven and rural health clinics
- Optim Surgery Center
- Optim Therapy
- Optim Imaging
- Optim Orthopedics physician practice clinics
A list of the travel screening questions that will be asked may be downloaded here.
VISTATION RESTRICTIONS
We understand visiting your loved one or friend while they are in the hospital or recovering after surgery is important – to both you and the patient – however, during this heightened flu season and the rapid advancement of coronavirus, it is imperative that we do everything we can to avoid the potential spread of any respiratory illnesses, including COVID-19.
Any visitor who is experiencing flu-like symptoms are asked to not visit patients in the hospital or surgery center.
We are also requesting patients only bring one, with a maximum of two, family member or friend with them to appointments / procedures.
An important update is starting immediately, no visitors or guests may be under 18 years old.
PREVENTION
At this time there is no vaccine available to prevent COVID-19, there are steps you may take to help reduce your risk of infection. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO) recommend the following standard precautions:
- Wash your hands with soap and water, or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer
- If you cough or sneeze, cover your mouth and nose with your elbow or a tissue
- Avoid touching your face – eyes, nose, mouth – as much as possible
- Avoid close contact with anyone who is sick
- Disinfect surfaces you touch often or that are in highly trafficked areas of your home / school / office / public areas
- Stay home from work, school, public areas if you are sick
If you are not sick, WHO does not recommend wearing a facemask as a form of protection or prevention. Only wear a facemask if a healthcare provider tells you to do so.
TRAVEL
If you are planning on personal or business travel, check the CDC and WHO websites for current updates and advice.
*Please note, as this is a rapidly evolving situation, be aware that procedures and requested documentation may change.
