MMH initiates temporary visitor restrictions

Melissa Memorial Hospital has announced multiple persons under investigation for the coronavirus (COVID-19), which means they have triggered a screening that meets the criteria for a possible case of COVID-19 in Phillips County. They will be confirmed by the State after testing.

Public health officials with Colorado Department of Health and Environment understand that there is fear and confusion around COVID-19 and want to assure the community that the risk of COVID-19 in Phillips County is currently low.

“The health and well-being of our community is always our top priority,” said Cathy Harshbarger, interim CEO. “As with any health threat, we are committed to minimizing risk in Phillips County and keeping our community safe.”

Anyone who has respiratory symptoms should call Family Practice of Holyoke at 970-854-2500 or MMH admissions at 970-854-2241 before going to the ER or clinic. A care plan will be developed with specific instructions for testing to minimize exposure and the potential spread of illness to others.

As an additional precaution, MMH has initiated temporary restrictions and guidance for patient visitors to all care locations.

General patient visitor restrictions

— All visitors must check in at designated triage stations at all main entrances.

— Visitors are limited to one visitor per patient. This means only one person may accompany a patient to the hospital, to the emergency department or to the clinic for an appointment.

— No visitors under the age of 18 including infants and siblings (unless they are parents of pediatric patients).

— No visitors waiting in common areas at any care locations. Other family members or friends will not be permitted to enter the facility or to wait in lobbies or common areas, including chapel, cafeteria, waiting rooms or any other area within the care location.

These restrictions apply to all care locations.

General patient visitor guidelines

— All patient visitation should be kept to a minimum until further notice.

— Visitors with flu-like symptoms should not visit. These symptoms include fever, cough and trouble breathing. Symptoms should be reported to a health care provider.

— Visitors will be screened for flu-like symptoms upon arrival. This will include the screening questionnaire plus temperature taken.

— Visitors returning from international travel must be in the United States, symptom-free, for 14 days prior to visiting.

— Visitors in close contact with someone diagnosed with COVID-19 will not be allowed to visit.

— Visitors from areas with high cases of COVID-19 and/or the mountain and urban areas of Colorado must be symptom-free for 14 days prior to visiting.

Visitor restrictions specific to COVID-19 confirmed patients or patients under investigation

— No visitors will be allowed for patients under investigation or those who are confirmed to have COVID-19. MMH encourages video meetings between patients and loved ones.

All visitors must be in personal protective equipment consistent with clinical personnel.

For updates from the Colorado Department of Health and Environment, visit https://bit.ly/Coronavirus CO.