Putnam County Hospital introduces COVID-19 hotline

Wednesday, March 25, 2020

Putnam County Hospital has launched a community hotline to offer individuals in Putnam County a Coronavirus (COVID-19) hotline.

Effective Thursday, March 26, all patients calling the hospital with questions or concerns about COVID-19 will be able to talk with a healthcare professional at one of our primary care practices. This service is available to everyone and not limited to current PCH patients.

The hotline will be staffed by physicians and providers who will screen patients from home, potentially eliminating the need to visit physician offices, prompt care or emergency departments.

Patients may call 765-301-7019 or the toll free number 800-394-9338 to be connected with a healthcare professional Monday-Friday 7 a.m.-5 p.m.

PCH will place additional staff in its Prompt Care Clinic from 5-9 p.m. for COVID-19-related patient phone calls. Weekend hours will be Saturday 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sunday noon-5 p.m.

The goal is to provide patients with current information on COVID-19 and what they can do to prevent the spread of the virus if they are sick. PCH healthcare professionals will follow CDC guidelines in advising patients to stay home if they are sick with COVID-19 or think they might have it and to follow these important steps to protect other people in their home and community.

Providers may also recommend patients seek additional care depending upon individual circumstances.

The hospital also advises the following for those who have contracted COVID-19 or suspect they may have:

• Stay home except to get medical care

• Separate yourself from other people in your home, (self-isolation)

• Call ahead before your visit your doctor

• Wear a facemask if you are sick

• Cover your coughs and sneezes

• Clean your hands often

• Avoid sharing personal household items

• Clean all “high touch “ surfaces everyday

•Monitor your symptoms

• Call 911 if you have a medical emergency and put on a mask if possible

Here are two links from the CDC to help learn more about what to do to help yourself or your community: