The Mohawk Valley Health System (MVHS) has updated its outpatient service model in order to keep patients in our region as safe and comfortable as possible while receiving care in our system. In accordance with New York State on PAUSE, MVHS has implemented social distancing measures in all locations. In addition, MVHS is performing temperature checks, asking screening questions and requiring the wearing of masks in all of our facilities.

 

In an effort to provide multiple options for care, MVHS also began offering telehealth services at its primary and specialty office locations as well as in our urgent care center. MVHS asks patients who are in need of care to first call your MVHS primary care provider to decide if an on-site, phone or virtual visit is most appropriate. If a patient does not have an MVHS provider, they are asked to contact our urgent care center at 315-624-5226. Patients will then be scheduled for a telehealth appointment with an urgent care provider or be directed to go to the Emergency Department (ED).

 

“Our goal is to make sure our patients get the care they need while at the same time keeping them safe and comfortable,” said Michael Attilio, MD, vice president of the MVHS Medical Group/Physician Practices. “These changes, though different than what we may be used to, will do just that. Reducing the number of face-to-face visits with our providers will allow our patients to receive quality care from MVHS while staying home.   And when a face-to-face visit is needed, this helps make sure we bring them into a safe environment.”

 

Another level of safety that has been added to our ED is a respiratory triage tent which keeps patients demonstrating respiratory symptoms such as a cough, shortness of breath, congestion, etc., separate from other patients. The tent helps to identify those who have symptoms of coronavirus/COVID-19 before they enter the facility which significantly minimizes their exposure to other patients and staff. Once patients have been triaged, they may be directed to the ED for further treatment based on the initial assessment. Patients with conditions not related to respiratory issues should continue to use the main ED entrances. The tent is open Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on the St. Luke’s Campus located at 1656 Champlin Avenue, Utica.

 

Visit mvhealthsystem.org/medical-group for more information.

 

 

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