April 21, 2020

Don’t delay essential care: MultiCare facilities remain open, and safe, for care

MultiCare Health System encourages patients to get the necessary health care they need and continue to take care of their health during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Emergency departments and clinics are open and have capacity to take care of people and address their health issues. During the state’s Stay Home, Stay Healthy order, MultiCare has seen a decrease in the number of people seeking care.

“While these are unprecedented times for all, we cannot stress enough the importance of seeking medical care when you need it,” says Dr. David Carlson, MultiCare’s Chief Physician Officer. “MultiCare is following strict guidelines and taking measures to protect all patients and prevent the spread of this virus. It is still safe and in your best interest to seek care in emergency situations or if you are unwell. We know that health care concerns have not gone away during this time.”

Although practicing social distancing and using virtual health services is encouraged for minor health conditions, such as allergies, colds or sinus infections, MultiCare urges patients not to put off getting in-person care for serious health issues such as:

• A change in mental status (such as confusion)
• Chest pain
• Coughing or vomiting blood
• Deep cuts or bleeding that won’t stop
• Difficulty breathing
• Loss of consciousness
• Motor vehicle accidents or other traumatic injuries
• Numbness in the face, arm or leg
• Pregnancy complications
• Seizures
• Sepsis
• Severe abdominal pain
• Severe allergic reaction
• Severe burns
• Severe skin infection
• Sudden blurred vision
• Sudden, severe headache
• Sudden dizziness, weakness or loss of coordination or balance

Other essential care services that patients should continue to receive in-person care for include: women in active labor; individuals who are in treatment for cancer; and those who need surgery urgently. Those who are unsure if their health needs require in-person care should call their doctor for guidance.

While COVID-19 is new to our community, caring for patients with serious illnesses is not new to MultiCare. Every day, the organization routinely cares for patients with serious illnesses, including contagious diseases, while protecting the health of other patients.

Patients with serious infections are isolated and cared for in appropriate spaces by trained staff. MultiCare follows best practices and strict safety and quality guidelines. And is equipped to care for these patients while protecting the health of the community.

All MultiCare facilities remain open, and safe, for patients who require in-patient care. Visitor restrictions are in effect at all locations.