March 29, 2024

Hendricks gives update on local healthcare climate

Adair County Health Systems Vice President/CEO Marcia Hendricks says that all forms of personal protective equipment are being taken by Adair County Health System, including hand sewn masks, as the local and wider scale fight against COVID-19 goes on.

Previously, Hendricks had stated that hand sewn masks were being taken but could only be used as reinforcement for hospital masks. Current guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention allow for hand sewn masks to be worn by staff who are not treating or facing patients but have to be in a health facility to perform their jobs.

“We are encouraging all clinical personnel to wear masks. All other staff are asked to wear one of our donated hand sewn masks while in public areas,” Hendricks said. “We are also reviewing our staff and being sure that everyone who can work from home is set up to do so.”

Due to a 30% shortfall in revenues mainly because of the suspension of elective procedures at the health system, some employees have been laid off. Hendricks reports that the CARES Act passed by the Federal government last week allows for unemployment benefits “better than traditional unemployment.”

“We remain committed to bringing staff back as soon as we can,” Hendricks said. “Our executive staff have taken pay reductions and I am renegotiating where possible with vendors to reduce any unncessary expense.”

Hendricks said she expects some influx of cash from the Federal Government in the next few weeks but it will “likely pale in comparison to the lost revenue.”

“We will hope to not dig too deep into our reserves but feel fortunate to have some reserves as we navigate this very challenging time,” Hendricks said.

Hendricks said that while the Saturday morning urgent care clinic has been closed temporarily due to a low to no volume of patients, telehealth options are currently being explored for patients to be seen without them visiting the clinic. Senior Life Solutions is beginning to see patients through this avenue this week.