Mankato Clinic Offers Hotline And Safe Screening Measures for COVID-19
Monday, March 16, 2020
(Mankato—March 16, 2020) Mankato Clinic is actively responding to the coronavirus (COVID-19) and working to prevent the spread of the virus in our community. The safety, health and well-being of our patients, staff and communities is our top priority during this critical time.
At all Mankato Clinic locations, staff are following infection control guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). First, all people experiencing upper respiratory symptoms of fever, cough or difficulty breathing should call before going to a facility for care.
Mankato Clinic has activated a COVID-19 Hotline at 507-389-8548. People who are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms and are concerned they may have been infected should call the hotline. A Mankato Clinic nurse will guide the caller through the COVID-19 screening process. If testing criteria is met, the caller will be directed to a drive-thru screening location. Mankato Clinic is following CDC guidelines to make sure testing is appropriate.
Mankato Clinic is operating a drive-thru method for coronavirus (COVID-19) testing. Patients must call the Hotline first. A nurse will complete a phone screening to determine if a lab test is needed. Patients cannot use the drive-thru screening method unless they call the hotline first and have been directed to go to the drive-thru location. At the location, patients are to remain in their vehicles with windows closed. Healthcare professionals, wearing appropriate safety gear, will collect a sample to be sent to the Minnesota Department of Health for testing. Other healthcare organizations have effectively used this drive-thru method to prevent the spread of the virus to other patients and staff.
Please visit the Mankato Clinic Coronavirus Page for the most up-to-date information.
Other Health Care Needs
For patients who require care that is not related to the coronavirus, the Mankato Clinic is here for patients and continuing to provide health care during this time. Staff members are greeting and screening patients as they come to the clinic. Every precaution is for the health and safety of patients and staff.
In keeping with public health recommendations and social distancing, Mankato Clinic is limiting visitors to the clinic to help keep everyone safe. Patients may only be accompanied by one caregiver if a caregiver is necessary. Caregivers should not be showing symptoms of respiratory illness such as a cough. Parents are asked not to bring children to parental appointments. When parents bring a child to an appointment, Mankato Clinic requests parents to only bring the child who has the appointment and not bring siblings.
Extra precautions also include the cancellation of OB Childbirth classes and other events. Participants and patients are being notified of cancellations as well as other precautions for their safety.
Prevention
People should continue to follow CDC directions to cover your cough, stay home when you are sick and wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
Local Response
Mankato Clinic is committed to the health and safety of patients and staff. Mankato Clinic is a member of the South Central HealthCare Coalition which includes clinics, hospitals, public health, emergency management and others. Working together, the coalition will provide a coordinated response in our region.