MRH provides community update on Covid-19
By Robbie McKay Lincoln News • March 26, 2020
MILLINOCKET – Millinocket Regional Hospital is sharing information with the public in regards to their procedures during the Covid-19 outbreak. CEO Bob Peterson issued the following statement Tuesday.
“Due to the severity of this virus, MRH has taken a proactive approach to protect our patients, staff and community as a whole,” Peterson said. “We have a solid plan in place, and that plan is continuously evolving to incorporate the latest information and CDC guidelines, which are received several times a day. We are closely following the progression of the outbreak and adjusting our response accordingly.” he said.
While the hospital is still operating as a business as usual, there is still a no visitors policy in place. Access to the hospital will be via one of two locations: the main entrance is open 24/7, Primary Care on Somerset Street is open Monday through Friday, 7:30am to 4pm. Satellite buildings entrants will also undergo screening prior to entry. Anyone displaying symptoms of COVID will be further evaluated and tested if necessary at an alternate, on-site location to minimize spread.
The cleanliness of the hospital is always of concern, but the community should take heart that the facility has earned many awards through the years for its cleanliness in general. Dale McLaughlin, MRH Director of Plant Operations, offered the following assurances to the public.
“Our Environmental Services department keeps our facility exceptionally clean; and now is no exception. They’ve been working closely with Infection Control to take additional precautionary measures to ensure facilities are safe, clean and disinfected. Employees have been provided disinfectant wipes and asked to pitch in by cleaning work stations and high touch areas multiple times throughout the day,” McLaughlin said.
MRH does have the capabilities to test for the virus for those who fit the four high risk criteria. Those who display COVID symptoms should call their primary care provider. If after hours, please call ahead to the Emergency Room to let them know you’re coming. The goal in doing this is to avoid community spread and contamination as much as possible.
“While we currently have three reported cases here in Penobscot County, it’s important to understand that we should heed the message of Dr. Nirav Shah of the Maine CDC to “live our lives as if COVID is among us; as it likely is.” said Missy Martin, Chief Quality Officer for MRH. CEO Bob Peterson reiterated words that should be very familiar to people.
“MRH will continue to do our part, but we also ask that you continue to do yours. Proper handwashing – do it often. Practice social distancing, exhibit appropriate caution, respect the gravity of this situation, and act accordingly,” said Peterson.
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About Millinocket Regional Hospital
Millinocket Regional Hospital (MRH) is a 25 bed Critical Access Hospital nestled at the base of Baxter State Park that provides vital healthcare services to those who live, work and play in the Katahdin Region. Beyond the friendly staff and award-winning patient care, MRH provides an impressive range of specialty and general services; with a recent expansion resulting in the addition of eight new specialties and a Walk-In Care facility. In 2018, MRH was awarded the Press Ganey ‘Guardian of Excellence Award’ for exceptional patient experience; a nationally-recognized symbol of achievement for hospitals who consistently perform within the top 5%. Providing jobs to approximately 250 people, MRH is the largest employer in the Katahdin Region and a crucial economic driver within its community. For more information, please visit www.mrhme.org or www.facebook.com/MillinocketRegionalHospital