In this video, Columbus Regional Health President and CEO Jim Bickel addresses the community regarding the health system's COVID-19 response and preparation for expanded operations.

Transcript

Hello, I'm Jim Bickel, President and CEO of Columbus Regional Health. You might wonder why I'm wearing a mask today during this video. I want to make sure all of you know that when you come to Columbus Regional Health and to any of our facilities, all of our team members are expected to wear a mask for your safety as well as theirs. We also know wearing a mask out and about in the community is one of the most important ways we can help contain further spread of this virus. I'm alone here in my office. I'm going to take my mask off so I can further address you and hopefully be clear with my messaging.

I want to take this opportunity to say thank you and express my gratitude to the residents within our region that we serve for your commitment and sacrifice to help contain the spread of the COVID-19 virus. Your efforts have and will continue to make a difference. Because of your efforts, our health system has been able to effectively manage this pandemic to date locally. As I'm sure you are aware, like most health systems across the country, we were asked to curtail elective surgeries and other procedures, wellness and preventative care and screenings among others given the governor's most recent executive orders to allow resumption of these services, coupled with our preparedness efforts, we want you to know that you can confidently and safely receive services at any CRH facility.

So what have we done to prepare? We have sufficient personal protection equipment to keep our caregivers and patients safe. We conduct and ongoing extensive sanitizing efforts within our facilities. We continue to screen all patients and visitors at our entrances and mask all who enter. Expanding testing capabilities are now available and allow us to prioritize rapid result testing for patients coming in for specific services or procedures. This ensures not only their safety but the safety of our workforce and informs the procedures and protocols for handling the patient's care. Based on the results of the test, we are excited and eager to resume the services we curtailed.

We know that many people have put off seeking much needed care and realize the importance of these services. CRH values being your health and wellness partner for life and the trust you place in us to safely, effectively, and compassionately provide the services you depend on. Please know we are here for all of your health and wellness needs. Thank you for the trust you place in us each and every day.