The Brooks-TLC Hospital System is bracing for a potential surge in patients as the coronavirus pandemic continues to plague New York State. Brooks-TLC announced on Sunday that a major spike in positive COVID-19 cases will result in sicker patients and increased admissions across the community and health system, and that having regulatory relief and clear direction from the state can only help hospital system officials moving forward. The state's goal is to increase hospital inpatient bed capacity by 50% to help fight the ongoing health crisis. Brooks TLC President/CEO Mary LaRowe says the hospital system is looking at all areas to maximize resources including equipment, space, and personnel. State leaders say capacity "surge" plans will include the following:
· Scope of practice change for physicians and all licensed personnel.
· Partnering with labor unions on establishing dedicated coronavirus care teams.
· Bringing back physicians and nurses who may have recently retired.
· Expediting graduates of health sciences, nursing and medical school programs.
Brooks-TLC is emphasizing the "stay at home" message, along with state and federal authorities across the nation: Leave home only when absolutely necessary and practice social distancing and aggressive hand washing. The community's support of these recommendations is vital to the efforts of hospitals to keep staff and patients safe. The hospital has restricted visitation for everyone's safety. As a reminder, per the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention and the Chautauqua County Health Department, if you think you have been exposed to COVID-19 and/or if you develop a fever and symptoms, such as cough or difficulty breathing, call your health care provider for medical advice; do not come to the emergency department or hospital. If you get sick with a fever (100 degrees or higher), cough, or have trouble breathing: call your health care provider and explain your symptoms, avoid contact with others and stay home when you are sick, and clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
Brooks-TLC is also asking for the community's help in protecting staff in the coming weeks by donating unused masks they may have: any N95 and non-N95 mask donations will be accepted. N95 masks that are in high need are the 3M 1860 model (size regular and small), as well as Halyard models 46767 and 46867. To help, contact Shelia Walier at 363-3313 or e-mail [email protected].
