Sidney Regional Medical Center implements essential staffing measure

SIDNEY, NE - Sidney Regional Medical Center (SRMC) announced the move to ‘essential staffing’ as a precautionary measure Wednesday.

Essential staffing is a general definition for reducing staff to only those needed during emergency situations, yet being able to provide patient care, according to a news release. The decision to decrease non-essential personnel at this time was made through the consulting of the medical staff and the Panhandle Public Health District (PPHD).

“The organization is taking every precaution to ensure the safety and wellbeing for our patients and staff,” Chief Executive Officer of SRMC Jason Petik said. “This includes the decision to temporarily hold the scheduling of elective surgeries and certain outpatient services, and we ask that you call ahead if you have any questions.”

Another change SRMC is making is the opening of the triage trailer. The mobile unit will be located outside the Emergency Room next to the ambulance bay.

It will be managed by triage nurses and providers that will evaluate patients for COVID-19 symptoms to determine if further assessment is required. Patients with flu-like symptoms should either contact PPHD (308-262-5764) or come to the trailer for further assessment.

Sidney Regional Medical Center (SRMC) will also offer telehealth visits at the Physician’s Clinic, Walk-in Clinic, Orthopedic Surgery Services, and the Emergency Room.

Under the guidance of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, telehealth services improves patients access to providers through devices like a smartphone, tablet, or computer.

“Ensuring those with health concerns can contact their provider for routine care and to prevent unnecessary travel is a top priority,” Petik said. “We are thankful this opportunity is finally available for rural areas.”

SRMC has tried to make the process as efficient as possible. Call the Physicians Clinic (308-254-5544) or Walk-in Clinic (308-254- 4752) with your health-related concern, and an appointment will be scheduled.

At the appointment time a provider will connect with the patient, and the visit will take place through the use of a device and a virtual platform.