WVU Medicine Potomac Valley Hospital has removed the COVID-19 triage tent located outside of the Emergency Department entrance. As a low occurrence of COVID-19 remains present in the Mineral County community, hospital leaders decided make this first step within the hospital, while the state continues to move forward with its re-opening plans. “All of our staff have worked very well together creating valuable processes that have allowed us to take this first step,” says Safety Officer Brenna Earnest.
Potomac Valley Hospital (PVH) will continue to offer the drive-through testing site, to continue to meet needs of the community, while allowing the emergency department to serve those who require immediate medical attention and treatment. The drive-through testing site is by appointment only, Monday through Friday, 10 am until 2 pm, with a valid order from a licensed practitioner. Patients scheduled for testing at the drive-through do not need to register at the main hospital. They can report directly to the drive-through testing site, located at the Seneca Lane Modular Building parking lot, across the street from the main hospital.
Patients presenting with acute COVID-19 symptoms at the Emergency Department are still encouraged to call the triage phone number, posted on the outside of the building, before entering the facility. This process allows for prompt care, while limiting exposure to the rest of the hospital. At this time, the no visitor policy is still in effect for all in-patient, outpatient, and emergency services.
“We appreciate the support from the community over these last few months. These have been tough times that have been very demanding on all of us. I am proud of our healthcare workers. The staff and physicians have shown great commitment and passion for their community” says President and CEO, Mark Boucot. He continues “Every week we evaluate data from WVU Medicine, as well as data specific to Mineral County, to help guide us on the processes and procedures that are relevant or need to be reconsidered, at that particular time, keeping the safety of both or patients and staff, as top priority.”