CASPER, Wyo. — Officials with Wyoming Medical Center in Casper are telling residents to continue to seek medical care if needed, and to keep in touch with their doctors.
“Amid spread of the novel coronavirus, many people are avoiding hospitals and medical offices,” said WMC spokesperson Kristy Bleizeffer. “But it’s critical to continue to seek medical care.”
Bleizeffer advises that Wyoming Medical Center’s Emergency Room is open, and asks anyone in need of emergency care to not delay treatment.
“We have taken extra precautions to protect patients against coronavirus infections including separate waiting rooms for people with respiratory symptoms. Wyoming Medical Center and other hospitals treat infectious disease every day, and we have protocols to protect patients, staff and physicians,” Bleizeffer said. “Please call 911 for symptoms of stroke, heart attack, breathing problems or respiratory distress, serious trauma, head injuries, or headaches and abdominal pain.”
People who suspect they have a serious case of COVID-19, and are exhibiting shortness of breath or other severe symptoms can call 911. Officials say that staff are alerted of suspected case and responders can to prepare for the patient’s arrival, either by reporting to the ER or arriving by ambulance.
People with non-severe symptoms can call the WMC Respiratory Clinic Telehealth Hotline for COVID-19 symptom questions. Virtual appointments with medical providers or referrals to another level of care are available. That number is 307-233-7288. The hotline is open 8 am to 8 pm every day.
“It is also important to stay in touch with your family’s healthcare providers to manage chronic health conditions and medications, talk about new concerns, get your annual wellness check and more,” Bleizeffer continued. “All Wyoming Health Medical Group providers are scheduling virtual appointments over your phone, tablet or computer. Simply call your doctor’s office, and they will get you started.”
