CHCS adjusts mask policy
October 14, 2022
Categories: News
Community HealthCare System is adjusting its mask policy effective Tuesday, October 18, in accordance with evolving CDC and KDHE guidance.
Starting October 18, universal masking will be required if COVID-19 Community Transmission is high for two weeks in a row, but masks will no longer be required if COVID-19 Community Transmission is low, moderate, or substantial according to the CDC COVID-19 Data Tracker. Community Transmission data...
Why screeners and masks are so important in our facilities
November 19, 2020
Categories: News
Everyone who comes to a CHCS hospital or clinic for an appointment has been met by a screener since late March. In Onaga, St. Marys, and Holton, we have dedicated screening staff members who meet patients and support persons at the door. At other clinics, registration staff provide screening, which involves taking temperatures and asking questions about symptoms and travel of those who enter and giving everyone a procedure mask to wear (with exceptions for young children or individuals who are...
Protect the people and things you care about
November 6, 2020
Categories: Community health news, News
The following is a joint letter to the editor submitted to area newspapers for publication the week of November 9. The letter is signed by three area hospital CEOs, including Todd Willert from Community HealthCare System.
Dear citizens of northeast Kansas,
Across the state, we are hearing calls of distress from our colleagues in healthcare. Hospital beds and intensive care units are filling to capacity. ER doctors and nurses are struggling to keep up...
CHCS urges area residents to take precautions, prevent the spread of COVID-19
October 29, 2020
Categories: Community health news, News
The Kansas Department of Health and Environment tracks 14-day COVID-19 positivity rates in every county, and each county is given a rating of green, yellow, or red.1 The most recent update from KDHE indicates that both Nemaha and Jackson counties are in the red. Pottawatomie and Marshall counties are yellow along with Wabaunsee, Shawnee, and Geary. Riley County and Douglas County are green. To find the most current information, visit the KDHE COVID-19 website and select Nursing Home Metrics.
Besides...
Procedure masks required starting October 26
October 26, 2020
Categories: News
Community HealthCare System, or CHCS, remains committed to providing high-quality, compassionate, and safe patient care while ensuring the safety of our workforce. Given the widespread community transmission of COVID-19, CHCS is adjusting mask requirements for all patients and visitors starting Monday, October 26.
Masks have been required in all facilities for several months, but as an additional protective measure, CHCS clinics and hospitals...
Masks and mask exemptions
August 27, 2020
Categories: News
Some of our patients have asked questions about mask requirements and possible exemptions. CHCS providers can discuss adaptations and alternatives for those who experience mild difficulties wearing a mask. Many different styles and fabrics are available, and some wearers may find one particular type of mask more comfortable than other types. Providers may issue a mask exemption, but circumstances that require an exemption are exceedingly rare. As always, individuals...
Masks required for entry to all CHCS facilities
July 9, 2020
Categories: News
Masks or face coverings are required for all who enter Community HealthCare System facilities effective Monday, July 13.
Masks were previously required for certain patients and visitors but optional for support persons and patients with wellness appointments, but the recent uptick in COVID-19 cases around the state and in northeast Kansas caused CHCS to re-examine the policy. Associates have worn masks at work since April and will continue to do so.
Dr. Tom Walsh...
