SC Hospitals Prepare for Coronavirus
Staff Report From South Carolina CEO
Wednesday, March 4th, 2020
South Carolina’s hospitals stand ready 24-7 to provide essential care to the communities they serve. As the possibility that a coronavirus patient is identified in South Carolina increases, the state’s hospitals and health systems are working closely with local and state officials to ensure the safety and well-being of all patients, staff and first responders.
While there are no confirmed cases of coronavirus in South Carolina, the state’s hospital community is actively watching its stock of personal protective equipment and working closely with vendors and other officials to maintain access to needed medical supply chains. The US Food and Drug Administration has heard reports of increased market demand for certain medical supplies; however, no specific widespread shortages have been reported.
South Carolina’s hospitals prepare, plan and drill for epidemiologic emergencies as part of their missions to protect public health. The state’s hospital community also maintains a strong Mutual Aid Agreement that allows for the sharing of resources and supplies as facilities work together in times of need.
With the number of coronavirus patients in the US increasing, South Carolina’s healthcare providers are following the most recent guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and coordinating all testing through the SC Department of Health and Environmental Control.
Patients and providers are encouraged to make every effort to access telehealth consults so those with symptoms can be interviewed via telephone, text monitoring system or video conferencing. Hospitals and health systems will also be revisiting their policies for monitoring and managing visitors to secure the health of their facilities.