A phased approach is necessary to ensure there is adequate personal protective equipment available, along with appropriate levels of testing, supplies and staffing.
During phase one, which begins May 11, surgeries and interventional procedures will be scheduled at OSF HealthCare Saint Anthony Medical Center in Rockford, including surgeries that were previously cancelled or postponed, as well as new elective surgeries.
“It is important to provide the elective services our Greater Rockford community needs as quickly as possible, but even more important is that we do this in a safe manner,” said Paula Carynski, Hospital President, OSF HealthCare Saint Anthony Medical Center. “Safety has always been priority number one at OSF HealthCare and we’re doubling down on cleaning and disinfecting processes to keep patients and Mission Partners safe from infection. The Illinois Department of Public Health said procedures can restart on May 11 if hospitals and outpatient surgery centers met certain guidelines—guidelines we have already had in place to care for patients in the safest environment possible.”
Patients coming to OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center for a scheduled procedure can expect additional safeguards in place, including COVID-19 testing 72-hours prior to the procedure. We understand this may impose an inconvenience, but it’s an important step to keep everyone as safe and healthy as possible.
Other measures such as routes for transporting patients through designated COVID-19 free zones have been put into place, and all elective surgery patients will be taken from the registration area and escorted by a nurse navigator immediately so there’s no waiting in general areas like lobby. All OSF HealthCare hospitals, urgent care centers and medical offices are following strict guidelines provided by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for cleaning and disinfecting.
“Keeping our patients safe is a number one priority at all times, not just during this pandemic,” said Dr. Shaaban, Trauma Director, OSF HealthCare Saint Anthony Medical Center. “We have protocols in place for cleaning and disinfecting all areas of the hospital. We are the Critical Care experts in the Rockford area and rest assured that we will provide you with the safest and greatest care available.” If someone is experiencing signs of a heart attack, stroke, or other emergency situation, don’t wait. Immediately call 911 to be treated quickly and to have the best recovery results.
As has been the case since May 1, OSF HealthCare requires anyone entering an OSF facility to wear a mask. Exceptions are made for those younger than two or those with medical conditions that prohibit wearing a mask.
OSF HealthCare seeks to partner with you and those who visit and support you. At this time, the safety of each person in our communities requires us to limit visitors. Patients who need mobility assistance, women giving birth, pediatric care, and end-of-life situations are all exceptions. There are critical situations where we will offer guidance and direction. Patients are encouraged to include family members or other supporters in their care by having them connect over the phone. Additionally, OSF care teams can suggest an array of communication tools and technologies.