Heartland Health Center is reaffirming their commitment to serving the needs of their patients and the community of Grand Island during the COVID-19 pandemic outbreak. The local group of clinics, located in Grand Island, comprise a non-profit Federally Qualified Health Center that is uniquely positioned to respond to public health challenges such as Coronavirus.
To meet the rising demands for healthcare, Heartland Health Center is working with local and national partners to ensure that accurate actions are taken for the safety of their patients. The center has enacted critical safety precautions that include assessing patient needs before they enter the clinic to assure social distancing and protect patient health.
“We want to let the community know we are here for our patients as well as those who may not have a primary care provider, and that we are able to serve those being impacted by COVID-19,” said Tami Smith, CEO at Heartland Health Center. “Our healthcare workers are on the front lines of the coronavirus pandemic. They are critical to preventing a strain on our hospital and helping our community respond to the virus”, Smith continued.
Telehealth Visits
In an effort to contain the spread of Coronavirus and reduce the risk for patients and providers, Heartland Health Center has transitioned many of their services to telehealth appointments, including remote visits for medical, dental and behavioral health. This allows the patients to access their healthcare provider via smartphone or computer from the safety of their home. Heartland Health Center is also following up with chronically ill patients through case management to ensure continuity of care.
Encouraging Action
Heartland Health Center is encouraging community members to continually wash hands, stay home, and practice the 6 rules of staying safe. As laid out by Governor Pete Ricketts, these practices include: socially distancing yourself from work if possible; shopping alone; helping seniors stay at home; and avoiding long-term care facilities. Healthcare professionals in Hall County continue to recommend simple measures:
· Stay home when you are sick, · Cover your coughs and sneezes, · Wash your hands frequently, and · Routinely clean frequently touched surfaces.
Heartland Health Center served over 4,300 patients in 2019 and offers medical, dental behavioral health services on a sliding fee scale. The health center provides culturally appropriate, affordable care and offers education and care in numerous languages. Clinical staff pride themselves on acting as a vital community partner in the Hall County Collaberative and Lincoln Elementary Community School.
@heartlandhealthcentergi @HCANebraska