Life happens. So we want you to know we’re open for more than Coronavirus Care.
We’re open. We’re available. We’re ready to serve and take care of you.
Much about life has changed because of COVID-19, but some things haven’t: If you experience a serious injury or health crisis, such as a potential stroke or heart attack, you should still call 911 right away.
Increased safety precautions during the coronavirus
At Central Maine Healthcare (Central Maine Medical Center, Bridgton Hospital and Rumford Hospital) we are committed to keeping patients safe and protected at all times. Our enhanced safety protocols follow guidelines set forth by the CDC and are designed to help keep COVID-19 from spreading. Here are just some of the ways that we are doing that, beginning when you walk in the door:
- Every person entering the hospital is screened at the Emergency Department entrance, and immediately directed to the appropriate area for their condition. Screening begins with using antibacterial solution on your hands. Then you’ll put on the face mask we require everyone to wear in the hospital (we will provide you a disposable mask if you do not have one). Finally, your temperature will be checked and you will be asked a few simple questions about symptoms and exposure.
- Our process is speedy and safe, without long lines or patients congregating in the lobbies.
- Additional precautions include:
- Those needing emergency care, such as for a broken bone or abdominal pain, are treated separately from respiratory/COVID patients.
- Patients with respiratory or suspected COVID symptoms are immediately shown to a private room in a separate part of the ED
- Our team members who work with respiratory or COVID suspected patients do not treat other ED patients
- Most visitors to our hospitals are still restricted to further reduce the risk of viral spread.
Increased hospital sanitation
We are diligently cleaning and disinfecting every patient room and all frequently touched surfaces. Additionally, our healthcare professionals are:
- Using protective equipment to avoid spreading infections among patients
- Following strict hygiene and handwashing protocols
Trained infectious disease control specialists
Even before COVID-19, our healthcare professionals, including our ER teams, received training in infectious disease control. Because we deal with communicable diseases on a daily basis, we know how to treat and manage infectious illnesses while minimizing risk to patients and caregivers.
If you or someone in your family has a non life-threatening illness or injury requiring emergency care, you can also opt for one of our Maine Urgent Care locations, or even register for a “virtual visit” at urgent care. Additionally, most of our provider practices now offer Telehealth options to their patients.
