What to Know About Surgery During the Pandemic
3/22/2021
GADSDEN, Alabama, March 22, 2021– The thought of having surgery for a nagging injury or lingering pain can make some patients feel uneasy. But, as many experts have said over the last few months, it is extremely important not to neglect medical needs during the pandemic.
“There are many problems we see that could have been treated more conservatively if only the patient had sought care earlier,” states William Haller, M.D., orthopedic surgeon at Orthopedic Specialists of Gadsden and Fort Payne. “All of the hospital clinics have appropriate COVID protocols in place, and our patients’ safety and health are our top priorities. With many conditions, there is risk of permanent damage, and most often, the best course of action is to be evaluated by a medical professional as early as possible.”
Patients can feel confident seeking care the medical care they need at Gadsden Regional Medical Center. Numerous steps have been put in place to keep patients safe during their visits, including:
- Screening all visitors for COVID-19 exposure and symptoms before they are allowed to enter.
- Visitor restrictions reduce the number of people inside to enable social distancing and keep patients and employees safe.
- Facemasks are worn by everyone inside the hospital – patients, employees and physicians.
- Caregivers are using appropriate personal protective equipment and washing hands before and after caring for every patient.
- Cleaning protocols have been enhanced with extra measures and increased frequency, including disinfection of frequently touched surfaces and all patient care areas.
- Furniture in waiting areas arranged to support social distancing.
Chief Medical Officer of Gadsden Regional John Pirani, M.D., states, “I understand the fear of patients about having surgery during a pandemic, but the safety precautions being taken in the hospitals are greater than anywhere else in our community.”
Pre-surgery COVID-19 testing is required for patients undergoing procedures involving general anesthesia or aerosolizing procedures. Patients are asked to self-quarantine after receiving the test and before arriving at the hospital. Care for surgery patients is delivered in a non-COVID care zone in which all patients have tested negative for COVID and provided by a dedicated group of staff who only work in this area.
“Our world may look a little different, but delaying surgery when you have pain or an injury may result in making treatment options more challenging,” states George Douthit, M.D., orthopedic surgeon. “Do not neglect your medical needs.”
Currently at Gadsden Regional, a patient’s driver can wait inside the hospital for their loved one during their procedure. If the patient must stay overnight, one guest will be allowed to visit the patient in their room once they are admitted.
“Delaying surgical care can lead to worsening of medical conditions. At GRMC, corners are not being cut in providing the safest medical care for our patients.....for our community,” says Xavier Smith, M.D., obstetrician and gynecologist.
“I tell all of my patients the hospital is the safest place to be during the pandemic. We test everyone that comes in and compliance with hand washing and PPE is way better than at the grocery store,” says Ken Davenport, M.D., general surgeon.
Cesar Fernandez, M.D., gastroenterologist, is also encouraging individuals to not delay care during the pandemic. He states, “In times of uncertainty, it is critical to not delay necessary diagnostic studies or therapeutic interventions based on unfounded fears. Our hospitals and healthcare workers are following strict procedures and guidelines that reduce the risk of COVID transmission to a minimum. Delaying medical care could lead to further unnecessary interventions and potentially serious consequences to the health of our patients.”
Gadsden Physician Clinics employs many surgical specialists including cardiothoracic specialists, pulmonology specialists, neurology specialists, orthopedic specialists, and obstetrician and gynecological specialists. To schedule an appointment with a surgeon or another specialist in the Gadsden Physician Clinics system, visit GadsdenPhysicianClinics.com. For more information about the hospital’s safety plan, click on “Important Information Regarding COVID-19” at the top of the page.
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