HOLLAND, Michigan — A local community center will be utilized as a patient overflow site for Holland Hospital if cases surge due to the novel coronavirus pandemic.
Evergreen Commons, located on State Street south of downtown Holland, will receive beds on Thursday, April 9. They will be used in the "unlikely event the hospital exceeds its maximum inpatient capacity in the coming weeks," a spokesperson said.
There are currently an adequate number of beds at the hospital, Vice President Rob Schwartz said.
"[We are] prepared to treat an influx of patients," Schwartz said. "However, should the hospital reach [its limit], the community can rest assured knowing we have the space available to use as needed."
Extra beds will be set up at the center, which is currently closed due to COVID-19, to treat patients that are almost ready to be discharged.
"It's really about patients who don't require a lot of intensive hospital resources, so we can free up beds in the hospital for other people," Schwartz said.
The hospital and Evergreen Commons share a mission to enhance the community's health and well-being, said David Knibbe, president and CEO of Evergreen Commons.
"Our partnership with Holland Hospital dates back 20 years," Knibbe said. "We know that offering our space during this public health crisis will best serve the community."
Of approximately 800 COVID-19 tests reported to the Ottawa County Department of Public Health, 56 results are positive as of April 8, a spokesperson said Wednesday. Around 23% of cases have required hospitalization, and one patient with underlying health conditions has died.
Both Holland Hospital and the health department are urging community members to stay home, adhere to social distancing and wash their hands frequently.
"If we can do a good job flattening the curve, hopefully we don't have to use this space at all," Schwartz said.
STATE RECOMMENDATIONS FOR COVID-19
Patients with confirmed infection have reportedly had mild to severe respiratory illness with symptoms of:
- Fever
- Cough
- Shortness of breath
The best prevention for viruses, such as influenza, the common cold or COVID-19 is to:
- If you think you have been exposed to COVID-19, call your health care provider. If you do not have a health care provider, call the nearest hospital.
- Wash your hands often with soap and warm water for 20 seconds. If not available, use hand sanitizer.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands.
- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or upper sleeve when coughing or sneezing.
- Avoid contact with people who are sick.
- If you are sick, stay home, and avoid contact with others.
- Stay at least 6 feet away from others when in a public setting.
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