How COVID-19 has affected ER and hospital visits in the U.S.

7/22/2020

How COVID-19 has affected ER and hospital visits in the U.S.

Over the past few months in the U.S., COVID-19 cases have risen, but emergency room visits for non-coronavirus-related reasons have dropped drastically. The CDC reports ER visits were down 42% over the month of April and 26% in the last week of May compared to the same times last year. Healthcare officials across the country have linked this decline in visits to the growing fear of contracting the virus while in the hospital.

According to the CDC, some of the largest declines were in visits for abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting, sprains and strains, and superficial injuries. There has also been a concerning drop in ER visits from patients experiencing chest pains and children requiring help for issues like asthma. This indicates that fewer people are seeking the medical attention they need for common yet serious problems. The CDC also found the sharpest drop-offs in ER visits not related to COVID-19 happened in places where coronavirus infections were the most severe. This data indicates a shift in the way the public uses the Emergency Department at their local hospitals. 

While it’s understandable to feel worried about coming into the hospital, it’s important to remember that hospital staff across the country are here to help you stay safe and healthy.

For everyone in Newberry, SC, we urge you to continue seeking medical attention for serious issues regardless of whether they’re related to the virus or not. If you ignore symptoms, they can worsen and lead to serious, long-term consequences.

Newberry Hospital is taking measures to ensure the safety of all patients during this time. There is no risk involved in admitting yourself to the hospital if you experience any symptoms that might have prompted you to visit the ER prior to the pandemic. Our healthcare professionals will treat you with the same care and ensure your wellbeing during your stay at the hospital. It is far more dangerous to skip an important appointment or try to wait out your symptoms than it is to come into the hospital. 

 

Newberry Hospital COVID-19 precautions

Here is a full list of safety measures we have in place at Newberry Hospital the ensure everyone's safety:

  • All patients are required to wear a mask when inside the hospital.
  • All patients must enter through the Emergency Department.
  • If you are here for an appointment, you will still enter through the Emergency Department. You will then be asked a series of screening questions and have your temperature taken. After that, you will be escorted to the appropriate location.
  • If you are coming for a MRI or rehab appointment, please do not come to the hospital. You can register for your appointment at the rehabilitation desk located within the Professional Building.
  • At this time, we are still unable to allow visitors into the hospital. This is for everyone's safety.

Please do not hesitate to visit the Emergency Room when appropriate. You will be met with the utmost care and support from our staff. Newberry County Memorial Hospital will continue to abide by CDC recommendations. Like and follow the Newberry Hospital Facebook page for any updates. If you have any questions about an upcoming appointment, procedures, patient care or otherwise, please contact us. We’re always here to help.