CEO Putnam gives PC Hospital, Clinic COVID-19 pandmic update

On Tuesday, March 24, Phillips County Hospital and Family Health Clinic staff took a COVID-19 training course taught by the Yellowstone Pathology Institute physicians from Billings as they continue to deal with the new medical challenge.

Larry Putnam, Interim CEO at the facilities, said the clinic and hospital made preparations to screen and possibly test potential Coronavirus patients on Monday, March 9th.

“Two weeks ago on March 16th, for the safety of patients and employees, the hospital suspended walk-in patients to the clinic and posted signs at the front entrance,” Putnam told the PCN. “Anyone with a clinic appointment will be seen by a Medical Provider. Appointments can be made over the phone by calling 654-1100. Clinic patients are being screened at the front entrance. ER, and Saturday Clinic patients are also being screened.”

Putnam said Coronavirus screenings are always coordinated with Public Health officials and the hospital has done nine Coronavirus tests, as of March 26, and all have come back negative.

“At the beginning of March, the hospital and clinic had enough Personal Protective Equipment for patients and employees under normal conditions,” Putnam said. “On Wednesday, March 25th, the hospital and clinic did receive additional N95 masks, surgical masks, face shields, gloves and gowns from the national and state stockpiles.” Phillips County Hospital does have a negative air pressure room that can be used as an isolation treatment room and medical providers do have a portable ventilator for transporting patients. Putnam said he is pleased with the staff at the hospital and clinics and stressed social distancing during this time.

“I’m really proud of the Medical Staff, excellent Senior Leadership Team and all of our employees,” he said. “Everyone has pulled together at the hospital and clinic and is working very hard to prepare for a possible surge of patients needing hospital care. Please urge everyone in Phillips County to take social distancing seriously. If we all do that, we all have a better opportunity to be safe and be well.”