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CHCS confirms COVID-19 case

Laboratory test results have confirmed that a patient who was treated at the St. Marys Clinic has tested positive for COVID-19. This is the first case in a Community HealthCare System, or CHCS, facility.

CHCS has been preparing for the arrival of COVID-19 for quite some time.

“We knew it was just a matter of time before this occurred,” said Todd Willert, CHCS CEO.

“We have been preparing for COVID-19, and we’re confident in our associates and medical staff to do what’s necessary to protect our patients, associates, and communities,” Willert said.

The patient is a Wabaunsee County resident and is isolating at home, and the associates who cared for the patient followed all safety precautions and guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and local and state health departments, including wearing proper personal protective equipment, or PPE.

Willert said he is thankful for the many local, county, state, and regional partnerships that have helped provide supplies and make other plans to address the COVID-19 crisis.

Patients should call their healthcare providers if they fever, cough, shortness of breath, or other COVID-19 symptoms.

All area healthcare facilities have protocols and guidelines in place to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. Community HealthCare system is screening all who enter clinics, hospitals, and other facilities; taking extra precautions in cleaning and sanitizing all facilities according to the latest guidance from the CDC and the Kansas Department of Health and Environment; ensuring that all medical and clinical staff members are properly trained to care for COVID-19 patients; carefully monitoring supplies; maintaining contingency plans; and much more.

“We are proud of our staff and their diligence in keeping patients and staff safe,” said Melissa Talley, CHCS chief practice management officer.

“They followed the protocols well,” Talley said.

Note: This case does not involve St. Marys Manor and, to date, we have zero cases there. Our senior care facilities have been closed to visitors since March 13, and all employees are closely screened for symptoms and wear masks while at work to protect residents. 

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