Avera Marshall Makes Precautionary Changes to Clinic Hours and Locations

With the rising likelihood of COVID-19 in the region, Avera Marshall has implemented some changes for patients who need to be seen in the clinic setting or if they suspect they have coronavirus.

These precautions are necessary to minimize exposure to health care workers, residents and patients and to control the flow of patients as recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH).

AveraNow at Hy-Vee is closed until further notice. Patients will be redirected if they present there. Urgent care will only be offered at the Bruce Street clinic location on first floor, not at the Carlson Street Clinic, starting Thursday, March 12.

The Carlson Street clinic is open for patients who are well and have routine appointments. Screening of patients presenting will occur to ensure they are not presenting with respiratory symptoms requiring other processes.

The Emergency Department (ED) is open for emergencies. Persons who feel they may have been exposed to COVID-19 or who are displaying symptoms are asked to call 1-877-AT-AVERA (877-282-8372) for instructions. Entrance points into Bruce Street location for all patients and visitors will be controlled at the main entrance and ED (emergency department) entrance.

Visitors are limited to essential visitors only in both the hospital and long-term care setting.

Signs are posted with instructions as well as staff at entrances to direct people.

Community programs at these sites have been cancelled.

SYMPTOMS

Typical symptoms of COVID-19 are fever of over 100 degrees, cough and shortness of breath. We are asking anyone who thinks they might have COVID-19 to please call before coming to the clinic or ED, to protect staff and other patients. Additional updates will be provided as they become available. For more information go to www.avera.org/COVID-19