1/12/22 - Local Hospitals Say Patients Are Still Welcome

Due to the rising number of cases of Covid-19 and their respective variants, many hospitals are under increased strain. But doctors say past experience has been their teacher and they've adapted.

Despite increases in Omicron cases, local health care providers report they are not closing down their facilities. 

Dr. Kristin Woods, President of Mercy Health Partner says early in the pandemic hospitals restricted access, but they’ve learned through time.
“But we’ve figured that out now, and we have very safe practices.  We’re not shutting down as long as we have enough staff to man the practices and we’ll coordinate and shift as needed.  If nothing else, we have learned to be adaptable.”

And while there are still restrictions in place, including prioritized access, but Woods says you are encouraged to contact your physician to better understand the reasoning.