CEO Staff Update: 3/31/20

First, I’d like to extend my deepest condolences to the family and friends of the first patient in Tulare County who passed away from COVID-19. This was the third confirmed positive patient with COVID-19 reported in the county and had been hospitalized at Kaweah Delta for several weeks. We currently have 45 positive COVID-19 persons in Tulare County and 2 patients in critical condition at SVMC.

As news regarding the COVID-19 pandemic envelopes us, feeling overwhelmed is natural. Many of our routines changed seemingly overnight, and social media inundates us with images and information at a frenetic pace. Yesterday Governor Newsom, announced plans to expand bed capacity throughout California’s and specifically referred to Porterville, California. I am working with CHA CEO and Hospital Council CEO to ascertain more information related to those plans, and I will update you as soon as possible.

In the midst of the ongoing war against the coronavirus, and as we prepare for the surge of patients that are predicted to hit local hospitals in the weeks to come, I want you to know that we are continuing to prepare. Since late February, we have been implementing plans related to COVID-19 to ensure our patients, employees, medical staff, and community are safe as possible.

We have designated specials units to care for patients pending and confirmed COVID19 results. We continue to work with state and federal officials to ensure necessary supplies are available for our employees and medical staff. As a result, we have built a foundation that enables us to move forward with determination and confidence.

Today, we are focused on everyone’s safety. Therefore, I am notifying you that we will no longer allow visitation in person for end of life situations. Additionally, I am asking you to self-monitor your temperature daily prior to coming to work. Please continue to practice social distancing, this will protect you and others around you. Keeping everyone as safe as possible is a critical priority.

Together, we can get through this and it will be tough. Thank you for your ongoing commitment and communication. It takes teamwork, and we have an exceptional team.

As additional information becomes available, we will keep you updated. Please continue to monitor our social media accounts for the latest news. You can also check our website at www.sierra-view.com or refer to our intranet page for updated information and educational resources related to COVID-19.

For updates from the county, state, and national level, please visit:

Tulare County Public Health Branch: www.tchhsa.org

California Department of Public Health: www.cdph.ca.gov/covid19

CDC: www.cdc.gov/covid19

Sincerely,