Barton Health updates community on their surge preparedness

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - The safety of patients and healthcare workers is Barton Health’s top priority. The health care system has operations in place to continue to meet the demand for medical services as COVID-19 cases surge across the nation and Lake Tahoe. After preparation for the anticipated increase of patient volume this fall and winter, aspects of Barton’s plan are being implemented to meet the needs for patient care.

El Dorado County has moved into the tightest level of restrictions, instituting more safeguards to slow the spread of COVID-19 including no indoor dining, no indoor religious services, no indoor fitness services, and only outdoor family entertainment. Barton’s operations will continue to shift to meet the restrictions of the new Widespread (Purple) Tier.

Keeping care safe and accessible:

All clinical operations will continue, including elective surgeries until further notice. For the safety of healthcare workers and patients, virtual visits with medical providers will be conducted whenever possible.

On the line for the community:

Additional clinicians are answering the increased call volume to Barton’s COVID-19 Health Line, 530.600.1999, providing free 24/7 screening, medical guidance and referrals to get tested.

Expanded testing:

Barton has reactivated its Drive-up Clinic on Emerald Bay Rd. in South Lake Tahoe to expand testing capabilities for those referred by the COVID-19 Healthline. Free asymptomatic testing continues to be offered at Lake Tahoe Community College; register and make an appointment online at LHI.care.

Ready at the Emergency Department:

Expanded capacity at Barton Memorial Hospital’s Emergency Department (ED) has expanded waiting and treatment areas for suspected COVID-19 patients. Visitation to the ED has been restricted, allowing visitation only for pediatric patients, those with disabilities, in crisis or end-of-life situations at this time.

Reactivated COVID-19 Response Fund:

To support community members facing food insecurities brought on by the pandemic, the Barton Foundation has reactivated its COVID-19 Response Fund. Applications for those needing financial assistance are available at BartonHealth.org/Foundation.

Restricted patient visitation:

Both parents may accompany their child at the hospital and one parent at in-person medical appointments. Adult patients can no longer have visitors with the exception of patients with disabilities, in crisis, or facing end of life.

Keeping mothers and babies close:

Barton Family Birthing Center allows one support person as well as a certified doula or midwife to accompany delivering mothers. Mothers-to-be are tested prior to delivery, and even if the mother tests positive for COVID-19, skin-to-skin contact is enabled and the family is kept close together.

Maintaining adequate protective equipment:

Barton’s Supply Chain continues to procure all necessary personal protective equipment (PPE) such as face masks and gowns, and Barton’s PPE levels exceed all state requirements.

Barton Health urges the community to continue mitigation efforts including wearing a face mask outside the home, practicing physical distancing and good hand hygiene, and following guidance from public health officials. California has issued a travel advisory discouraging residents from traveling outside the state. Anyone going into or returning to California, both residents and non-residents, is recommended to complete a 14-day quarantine.

This information is subject to change, based on state, federal, and county guidance. For the latest operations at Barton Health and more information on the pandemic, visit bartonhealth.org/coronavirus.