For Immediate Release

April 29, 2020

Contact:

Jeffrey Scott, Director of Marketing and Development

740.393.9085

Jeffrey.Scott@KCH.org

Knox Community Hospital To Resume Medical Procedures

Following Governor Mike DeWine’s announcement on Monday, April 27, Knox Community Hospital will begin gradually resuming a variety of surgeries, medical procedures, and diagnostic testing and imaging that will not require an overnight hospital stay.

In compliance with the state’s order restricting nonessential surgeries and procedures on March 19, KCH postponed a number of scheduled cases that did not meet the state’s criteria as essential. Under the new guidance, those delayed procedures will now begin to be rescheduled.

“Ensuring the safety and well-being of our patients is our highest priority,” said Dr. Jeffrey Northup, Chief Medical Officer at Knox Community Hospital. “Over the past two months, we’ve implemented a number of new safety protocols and procedures, including telemedicine visits, visitor restrictions, and screenings stations for staff and patients at all entrances, to ensure that our patients, workforce, and community are safe and protected. As we begin to enter this next phase of recovery, we’ll continue to take the same approach.”

In the coming days and weeks, KCH staff will be contacting patients who have had a procedure postponed to reassess their individual needs and to either reschedule the procedure or to schedule a telehealth appointment with their provider to jointly consider how to move forward.

Currently, all persons entering KCH, including staff, patients and approved visitors, are required to wear a mask or face covering. This requirement went into effect on Monday, April 27, and has been implemented as an additional safety precaution against the spread of COVID-19. Members of the public are encouraged to wear their own face covering when arriving at any KCH facility. Anyone who does not have their own mask will be provided one for use for the duration of their visit. 

“Despite the continued caution surrounding the pandemic, it is vital that patients continue to seek medical attention for their healthcare needs, especially those with chronic or pre-existing conditions,” said Dr. Northup. “KCH facilities are a safe place to receive care and treatment, and our providers and clinicians are eager to work with you to provide the best possible care for your needs in the safest environment.”

Knox Community Hospital is a 99-bed, community-owned, not-for-profit hospital offering comprehensive inpatient and outpatient services across more than thirty areas of specialty including interventional cardiology, orthopedics, medical and radiation oncology, women’s health, and bariatric medicine among others. KCH is located in Mount Vernon, Ohio, and serves residents of Knox and surrounding counties with award-winning care and personalized customer service. Visit www.KCH.org.

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