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"Antelope Memorial Hospital continues to have daily meetings, monitor the constant COVID-19 updates and take steps to stay prepared in the event the virus reaches our doors," said Diane Carlin, AMH CEO. "Plus, our entire staff is taking many precautions to help protect against the spread of a possible COVID-19 infection to other patients or our employees."

Currently, clinic patients with non-respiratory symptoms are being seen in the old Neligh AMH Family Practice Clinic, Carlin added. Patients with respiratory symptoms, including shortness of breath, cough, sore throat, diarrhea, severe fatigue and/or fever of 100.4°F or higher, from any AMH clinic are being seen only in the new AMH clinic in Neligh.

Before appointments are scheduled, patients are screened over the phone and advised which clinic to go to. Patients are asked three questions: do they have any symptoms of respiratory issues; in the last 14 days, have they or anyone close to them traveled out-of-state or country or to Omaha, Lincoln or Grand Island; have they been in close contact with anyone who has been ill or who has been suspected of or tested positive for COVID-19?

Upon arrival at the clinic, each patient's temperature is taken electronically and screening questions are asked again. These steps are taken to protect other AMH patients or employees from exposure to a possible COVID-19 infection.

"Doctors are determining if a patient is to be tested for COVID-19 – based on the patient's present condition and on the three priority levels established by the Centers for Disease Control for COVID-19 testing," said Carlin.

Priority one is for hospitalized patients and healthcare facility workers with symptoms. It ensures optimal care options for all hospitalized patients, lessens risk of healthcare-associated infections and maintains integrity of the U.S. healthcare system.

Priority two is for patients with symptoms who are over 64 years old, in long-term care facilities and/or have underlying conditions. First-responders with symptoms are also included in this level.

Priority three is for individuals with symptoms who do not meet the above categories or are critical infrastructure workers. Other individuals at this level include healthcare facility workers and individuals with mild symptoms, in communities with high numbers of COVID-19 hospitalizations. These guidelines ensure limited testing available is prioritized appropriately.

"We are confident of our COVID-19 preparedness at AMH," added Carlin. "We're also pleased to announce AMH Family Practice clinics are now offering Facetime appointments with AMH providers. Individuals who require an appointment and are not able to get to an AMH clinic may schedule a Facetime appointment instead of an in-person office visit. We are excited to offer this new telehealth service, thanks to lessening of state and federal laws during this time."

"Overall, our AMH staff remains well-prepared and upbeat regarding the changes and challenges that we are all experiencing," said Carlin. "Despite the difficulties, there are many good things that will come from times like these. I feel our staff is committed, courageous and dedicated to meeting the needs of individuals who may require our care. It's a privilege to be a part of AMH at this time."