Carson-Tahoe Health postpones all non-emergency surgeries through April, establishes ‘Respiratory Care Tent’
Submitted by Kelsey Penrose on Fri, 03/20/2020 - 3:26pm
In accordance with recommendations from the U.S. Surgeon General and the American College of Surgeons, the Carson Tahoe Health Medical Executive Committee decided that effective 1800 (6:00 PM) Friday, March 20, elective/non-urgent surgeries and procedures will be postponed until at least April 20,2020. The elective/non-urgent surgery & procedure plan will be reassessed and extended, if needed.
“By postponing all non-emergent surgeries and procedures, we also are able to refocus our available resources to assist in the new (and continually changing) ways we are addressing COVID-19 and providing quality care during this ever-changing situation,” says Allen Fink, DO, MHA, FACEP, Vice President and Chief Medical Officer for Carson Tahoe Health.
The new guidelines do not apply to emergency surgeries/procedures. Patients who have been affected by this change will be notified by Carson Tahoe Health staff as soon as possible.
Carson Tahoe Medical Group Telemedicine
Carson Tahoe Medical Group (CTMG) has rescheduled all annual wellness exams and is utilizing telemedicine through Zoom and telephone to conduct patient follow-up visits. For CTMG patients who have symptoms for respiratory illness, patients are still directed to the drive thru clinic at 775 Fleischmann Way (parking lot across the street from the Specialty Medical Center).
Respiratory Care Tent
A medical tent outside Carson Tahoe Emergency Department has been set up at the Regional Medical Center and is operational. Right now the tent will serve as a designated area to screen/triage patients concerned with respiratory illness, not as a COPVID-19 testing center. This area can accommodate both drive-up patients (screened in their vehicles) and walk-up patients.
Drive-Up patients will be asked to wait in their vehicles and call (775) 445-6675 for further medical assistance.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
The increased demand for PPE supplies such as masks, gloves, and gowns have created several supply chain issues. Although, these items are scarce nationally, Carson Tahoe is closely monitoring its supply and patients, staff, and providers are all donning the appropriate protective gear. Carson Tahoe Health has been working with all local & national agencies and sources to obtain additional items.
We appreciate both our staff and community’s understanding as we make adjustments for all of our safety.
Since this is an ongoing situation, we will keep you informed as things change. Please visit carsontahoe.com to stay updated with the latest proactive measures taken by Carson Tahoe.
