VW Health offering dedicated helpline

VW independent/submitted information

Van Wert Health announced Monday it is taking additional proactive measures to help control the spread of the 2019 novel coronavirus (COVID-19). Van Wert Health is now offering a dedicated helpline for patients and community members who have questions, concerns, or symptoms related to COVID-19. The helpline is available from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., seven days a week. 

“The community needs to know that Van Wert Health has immediately and appropriately activated all protocols for handling potential COVID-19 cases,” said Elizabeth Neuschwanger, MSN, chief nursing officer of Van Wert Health. “We understand people in our communities are feeling uncertain and stressed in these unprecedented times. I’m hopeful that with these additional measures in place, our patients will have a clearer sense of how should they seek care if they feel they need to in the weeks ahead.”

The Van Wert Health dedicated COVID-19 helpline (419.203.9161) is designed for patients and community members who are experiencing symptoms and have questions about how best to seek care.  All community members are encouraged to call their health care provider or this helpline, first, before driving to clinics in order to help curb the spread of infection.

“Since the onset of the coronavirus, Van Wert Health has worked diligently to ensure we can meet the needs of our patients and the communities we serve.  Our existing emergency preparedness infrastructure, as well as our ability to respond in real time, will continue to help us effectively manage this ever evolving situation,” Neuschwanger added.

In addition, to do our part in reducing the spread of the COVID-19 virus Van Wert Health – Hospital will implement visitor restrictions and visitor screening policies effective Tuesday, March 17, at 8 a.m.  Visitors will be limited to one essential visitor (defined as a parent, spouse, or other primary caregiver) plus one additional visitor (age 18 or over) at a time. Visitors must not exhibit any symptoms of respiratory illness.  Special exceptions will be extended for extenuating circumstances such as end-of-life comfort care or patients with significant physical or mental disabilities.