As the COVID-19 pandemic continues across the United States, WellSpan Health is urging community members not to ignore emergency medical matters that may arise.
Since late March, hospital officials have noticed a 50 percent drop in patients seeking care at WellSpan Health’s six hospital emergency departments across southcentral Pennsylvania with some patients ignoring the early warning signs of issues like heart attack or stroke.
“When it comes to stroke care we say time is brain. How quickly patients receive treatment is critical,” said Grant Sorkin, M.D., WellSpan neurosurgeon and surgical director of the Comprehensive Stroke Center at WellSpan York Hospital. “At our stroke center we’re able to diagnose and treat patients rapidly, but only if the patient acts on the early warning signs. It can be a life-saving move when seconds count.”
Data from large health systems across the country show younger patients in their 30s and 40s that are COVID-19 positive may be experiencing strokes at a higher rate than non-COVID-19 patients in their age group.
Early warning signs of a stroke can include face drooping, arm weakness, speech difficulty or disorientation. Individuals experiencing these symptoms should dial 911 or seek immediate medical attention at one of the six Comprehensive or Primary Stroke Centers across WellSpan Health.
Doctors at the health system have also heard from patients experiencing serious medical issues, including behavioral health concerns, and choosing not to come to the hospital and getting the care they need for fear of contracting COVID-19 within the building.
WellSpan takes the safety and security of its facilities seriously. To protect patients WellSpan has taken the following measures within the hospitals:
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Dedicated COVID-19 patient care area — Patients who have tested positive or those that are showing symptoms of COVID-19 are isolated to specific treatment areas. Those patients are treated by a care team assigned to only COVID-19 patients.
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Limited entry points at all hospitals — All staff, patients and visitors will enter the hospital at designated entry points where they will be screened prior to entering. Staff who screen positive are evaluated by Employee Health and Safety department before they can return to work.
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Visitor restrictions — By limiting visitation to specific types of patients, we can maintain social distancing and help prevent exposure to COVID-19.
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Protecting our staff — All staff members working in COVID-19 patient care areas, screening areas and emergency departments are required to wear personal protective equipment (PPE) including masks, gloves, gowns and eye protection. Our staff is trained in the proper use of PPE.
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Safety for all — All hospital staff are now required to wear the appropriate mask during their shift and our patients are also encouraged to wear face coverings to prevent any spread within our hospitals.
