On March 15, two patients presented to the emergency department of Inspira Medical Center Mullica Hill. The first patient was symptomatic for COVID-19 and identified as high risk. This patient was admitted to the hospital. The second patient was not symptomatic and not considered high risk. This patient was sent home to self-quarantine, consistent with guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Also in accordance with federal and state guidelines, both individuals were tested for COVID-19 on March 15. On March 17, the Department of Health notified Inspira that both patients tested positive.
The symptomatic patient works in the radiation oncology department at Inspira Medical Center Vineland. Following guidance from the CDC, patients and staff who had direct contact with the symptomatic patient were notified. The department is temporarily closed, and patient appointments will be rescheduled. Patients and staff who had direct contact with this employee have been offered testing as well as mental health counseling.
The asymptomatic patient works in the surgical services departments at Inspira Medical Centers Elmer, Mullica Hill and Vineland. Inspira is reaching out to patients and staff who had direct contact with the asymptomatic patient, as recommended by the CDC and Department of Health. All patients and staff are being asked to self-quarantine. All patients and staff are being offered an opportunity for testing as well as mental health counseling and guidance on when to contact a health care provider.
Inspira, and health systems across the state, are also taking other measures to keep their patients and employees safe. Inspira has adopted a “no visitation” policy with very limited exceptions. Elective procedures are also being canceled. Visit www.InspiraHealthNetwork.org for more details.
