Holyoke Medical Center promotes community health during COVID-19

Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, we’ve seen healthcare organizations go above and beyond to meet the challenges of this unprecedented time. Holyoke Medical Center (Holyoke, MA) is just one hospital that is taking a multifaceted approach to ensure the safety of their patients, staff, and surrounding community. 

Reorganizing to increase patient capacity 

Holyoke recently opened two new areas in the hospital to combat COVID-19. The first accepts patients with flu-like symptoms outside of the normal hospital building, while patients that test positive for COVID-19 are transferred to a specially outfitted floor for battling outbreaks.

Providing assistance to local veterans 

Holyoke is going the extra mile to provide assistance to veterans living at the nearby Soldier’s Home. Within hours of a request for assistance from the Executive Office of Health and Human Services, the Holyoke converted its Birthing Center and outpatient Cardiovascular Center to safely house 40 veterans that tested negative for COVID-19. Maternity patients will temporarily be delivering their babies at an alternative location nearby. 

 Members of Holyoke’s Physical Therapy team have been designated as veteran liaisons, working with these patients to increase their mobility, and connecting with their families to provide updates and facilitate video calls.

Redistributing PPE

In light of a nationwide shortage in Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), Holyoke has shared their supply with local first responders, including Action Ambulance Service, the South Hadley Fire Department, and the City of Springfield.

Implementing drive-up medication monitoring

Holyoke’s Anticoagulation Department is now offering drive-up services for its patients in order to continue monitoring their medication levels. Many of these patients are considered high-risk for contracting COVID-19, or have ambulatory issues.

Recognizing frontline staff

Holyoke Medical Center is partnering with local schools to arrange for thank-you notes, homemade posters, and pictures to be sent to frontline staff. Several local churches have also collaborated with Holyoke to have church bells rung during shift changes, as a display of hope and support for the community. 

Stay tuned as we continue to share our customers’ strategies and experiences battling COVID-19. Learn how MEDITECH can help you in your efforts.