O’FALLON, IL – HSHS St. Elizabeth’s Hospital established a triage tent at the hospital’s emergency department entrance as an alternative screening location for patients with respiratory symptoms. Please note that this is not a drive-thru testing site tent.
“The intent of mobilizing the tent is to screen those who have or may have a fever along with other symptoms, such as cough and shortness of breath,” stated Emergency Department Manager Erin Hazen. “Patients who present with other emergent issues and non-COVID-19 symptoms will be directed to proceed into the building at the normal entrance. We are taking these extra measures in separating possible COVID-19 patients to further protect our community and colleagues.”
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Registration, vital signs and other standard patient intake processes will occur in the tent, just as they would occur in the Emergency Department. If the patient is suspected of having COVID-19 or found to be in severe respiratory distress, he/she will then be taken into the hospital’s emergency department through an alternate door with direct access to a prepared room for further evaluation.
St. Elizabeth’s is following guidelines set forth by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and public health authorities to evaluate those who self-refer or are directed by their doctor to take part in the screening.
HSHS Medical Group is offering COVID-19 Virtual Assessments through Anytime Care (anytimecare.com) and are waiving the fee for visits related to screening and evaluation of coronavirus (COVID-19).
“Using Anytime Care helps patients minimize possible exposure to COVID-19 with a virtual visit,” said Melinda Clark, chief executive officer of HSHS Medical Group. “Anytime Care providers are equipped to assess patients who may be experiencing COVID-19 symptoms and provide instructions on next steps for the patient’s health and the safety of those around them.”
Any associated lab tests will be billed to the patient’s insurance. All calls not related to COVID-19 will be charged the regular $29 fee. If you are concerned about your symptoms, visit AnytimeCare.com, download the app or call 1-844-391-4747 to start your medical visit.
The hospital still strongly encourages the community to continue to comply with the governor’s directive and practice social distancing to help our community and our health care professionals remain healthy.
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