Public News Release
As you are now aware, cases of coronavirus (#COVID19) have been confirmed in Georgia. While none of these cases have been in Ben Hill County, Dorminy Medical Center or any of the DMC physician clinics, we are continuing to actively monitor the ongoing concerns related to the coronavirus. Our goal is to ensure a safe place for our patients and staff. In doing so, we are following guidelines put forward by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), which recommends avoiding crowded gatherings.
Effective Monday, March 16th: As your healthcare provider, all of us at DMC have your health and safety as our primary concern. We are actively taking the necessary steps to ensure the safety of our caregivers and community. In response to the growing number of COVID-19 cases in Georgia, at this time we believe it is necessary to temporarily suspend visitation at Dorminy Medical Center (DMC) to protect our patients and staff.
Emergency Patient Care and Entry
At the Emergency Department entrance, patients transported by ambulance will enter the building at the ambulance bay as usual. For patients arriving by other than emergency transport, a triage station staffed by clinical care providers will be in place, outside the Emergency Department, where patients will be triaged and screened from 8am – 6pm. Patients who arrive after 6pm will be screened in the ER waiting room area. Those presenting with symptoms of COVID- 19 will be advised and appropriate treatment will be provided.
Patients for Outpatient Services
All non-emergency patients presenting for surgery or diagnostic services and treatment should use the hospital’s outpatient entrance (back entrance of the hospital), where a staff member will greet patients and provide directions to the area where care is to be provided. Rehab patients will enter through the side door of the DMC Rehab Department.
Patient Visitor Changes
For patient and staff safety, DMC is not allowing visitors at this time. Family members will be contacted if a physician or staff needs to speak with them concerning a patient. Phones are available in every patient room and we encourage you to give your loved one a call at any time by dialing 229-424-7100.
DMC Cafeteria Closed to Public
Effective immediately, the DMC Cafeteria will be closed to the public until further notice for breakfast and lunch. An announcement will be made when the cafeteria will reopen to the public.
What if I suspect I have been exposed to COVID-19?
If you suspect that you or a loved one has been exposed to coronavirus, and you are showing correlating symptoms of COVID-19, please take these measures. Unless you are experiencing a health emergency and need immediate health intervention, do not go to an emergency room. Call your primary care physician’s office to discuss your symptoms and your possible exposure. Your healthcare provider will determine if you need to be tested for COVID-19.
Be prepared to treat the common symptoms of COVID-19, which includes fever, cough, and possible respiratory congestion. Be sure to remain hydrated, drinking plenty of liquids. Sports drinks such as Gatorade and Powerade contain electrolytes that are effective in combating dehydration.
When should I go to the Emergency Room?
If you are experiencing shortness of breath or respiratory distress, please report to the nearest Emergency room or call 911. Be sure to make all those who come into contact with you aware of your suspected condition so they can take precautions against contracting the possible COVID-19.
For questions or concerns, contact our 24/7 DMC Hotline at 229-424-7340. Please continue to follow the basic hygiene protocol of washing your hands with soap and water. Stay home if you are sick (unless an emergency). Avoid contact with people who are sick. Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces and objects. Stay vigilant and stay safe! We will update you as our situation changes.
For more information on what to do to prevent the spread of disease and illness if you are sick:
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/…/about/steps-when-sick.html
