Coronavirus COVID-19 Awareness - VA Palo Alto Health Care System
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VA Palo Alto Health Care System

 

Coronavirus COVID-19 Awareness

Coronavirus VA Palo Alto Health Care System (VAPAHCS) is prepared to serve Veterans diagnosed with Coronavirus COVID-19. It is our essential mission to support in emergency situations, therefore our health care system is preparing to receive patients seeking quality care. Executive leadership will provide notification should the medical center receive patients affected by the Coronavirus COVID-19, and if any additional steps will be needed at that time.

Information Update

  • The VAPAHCS Incident Command team is meeting routinely for advanced preparation, planning and messaging.
  • Staff assigned to work with Coronavirus COVID-19 have been identified and appropriately trained utilizing Personal Protective Equipment and techniques.
  • Standard Work has been developed for staff to follow for the support and care of Veterans.
  • Veterans and staff are encouraged to take everyday preventative actions to avoid being exposed to the virus:
    • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
    • Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.
    • Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
    • Stay home if you are sick or becoming sick.

Frequently Asked Questions and Answers

Question: Do you have a patient who is positive for COVID-19?
Answer: A Veteran who has tested positive for Coronavirus (COVID-19) was transferred to VA Palo Alto Health Care System for treatment in February. The risk of transmission to other patients and staff remains low, as the Veteran is being cared for in isolation and treated by trained staff.

Question: Tell me about the screening process. Why am I being stopped at the front entrance?
Answer: Everyone who enters the campus will be pre-screened to quickly identify individuals who have symptoms and direct them to a location for further triage and treatment. This may lengthen entry times, so patients are advised to plan to arrive at the facility at least 30 minutes in advance of their appointment to allow additional time for the screening process.

Question: What are you doing to protect me? What extra measures is VA Palo Alto Health Care System taking to keep me from getting sick?
Answer: All Veterans who have symptoms (fever, cough and shortness of breath) should call the Nurse Triage Call Center at 1-855-632-8262 for triage and instruction prior to coming to the medical center or clinics. In addition, Veterans who receive care at VAPAHCS have the option to schedule a Virtual Care appointment if they wish.

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