As the global effect of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) continues to evolve, Pikeville Medical Center (PMC) is making adjustments to help keep our patients, staff, visitors and community safe. Our commitment to provide world-class quality healthcare has never been more evident, as our staff remains ready to service needs that may arise from this new virus.
In the past few months, PMC has been working closely with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Kentucky Department for Public Health and the Pike County Health Department to determine how best to proceed. The medical center is making necessary arrangements to protect our community and treat those who may potentially contract COVID-19.
PMC has the ability to operate a Highly Infectious Disease Unit, capable of handling a large number of cases, thanks to the practices developed and exercised in our Ebola Isolation Unit that was funded through a 2015 Federal grant. This Highly Infectious Disease Unit at PMC meets or exceeds all applicable standards for treating COVID-19.
In addition to the Infectious Disease Unit, PMC also has enough negative pressure rooms to treat 40 patients at the hospital, with the ability to greatly expand that number if needed. This is the preferred environment of care for patients with this virus. For the most severe cases, PMC has multiple ECMO machines for patients with extreme respiratory needs. Having this advanced form of life support is unique for hospitals in rural areas.
Pikeville Medical Center has proactively prepared for this novel coronavirus, and we encourage everyone to take the necessary steps to stay safe and well. Anyone seeking information about COVID-19 is encouraged to call the Kentucky COVID-19 Hotline at 800-722-5725.
More information is also available at www.pikevillehospital.org/covid19/.
