Hospital leadership at the Punxsutawney Area Hospital has been participating in planning sessions for resuming medically necessary, time sensitive surgeries and procedures on May 11th.
Early in the response to COVID-19, Punxsutawney Area Hospital was challenged with the planning for a surge of patients. We continue to monitor the projected peaks of occurrences and are caring for fewer cases then originally projected by experts nationally.
We will be populating our surgical schedule beginning May 11th for a ‘back to normal operation.
Due to the risk of mortality, morbidity, and resource consumption, the hospital will only be doing surgeries on COVID-19 patients in an emergency.
As we continue preparing for the restoration for normal surgical care at the hospital visitor restrictions will remain in place. Rigorous medical evaluations of visitors, patients and staff will continue. We are not letting our guard down. Throughout this pandemic we have been able to maintain employment for our 390 employees as a result we are ready to resume all of our services in a timely manner.
What are two of the most frequently asked about topics currently during this pandemic?
Testing and Masking
During the current time of uncertainty– information and policies are changing daily on two major topics: testing and masking. The Punxsutawney Area Hospital is actively educating staff and community members regarding these two topics as it relates to our individual and community health efforts.
How has the community support been?
The support from the community has been tremendous. We want to thank the community for the flooding of donations of all kinds’ masks, PPE, food and more. Our staff has felt the love and support from the people we call friends and family- the communities we serve.
Donations from: local and regional businesses, churches, schools, individuals, restaurants, and so many others.
What are some important reminders for people?
– Our ER remains open
– We may look different with masks and gloves and gowns, but we want to assure the community we lead with compassion/empathy and steadfast commitment to clinical excellence.
– If you have potential Covid symptoms– Call ahead 814-938-4955 to our hotline. We have established a 24/7 hotline for those that feel they are having symptoms and those presenting to the campus with symptoms.
What are the other plans for PAH opening services back up?
We have been offering video visits with our new Rapid Care Walk In Clinic. This has been very well received as our providers are able to provide care while effectively utilizing social distancing.
This technology is very easy to utilize, what is needed is a smart phone, device, or computer with a camera, internet access, and a confirmed appointment time. A member of our staff will send you the link for your visit, along with the instructions of how to participate. Video Visits are covered by most major insurance companies.
Our new Rapid Care walk in clinic on the hospital campus will soon be seeing patients in person. The location of the Rapid Care Office will be in the medical arts building at the Punxsutawney Area Hospital Campus.
If you have specific coverage and copay questions, contact your insurance company or give the Rapid Care office a call at 814-938-2064.
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