March 16, 2020
Visalia, CA – Family HealthCare Network (FHCN) announced this morning that the organization has updated its Visitor Policy as a precautionary measure for its patients and FHCN team members. Specifically, only one visitor will be allowed to accompany a patient at all of FHCN’s clinical and administrative sites. In addition, all patients and visitors will be screened prior to entering the facility. “We understand that this will impact our patients visiting our health centers, and administrative sites. We do not want this viewed as a barrier or in any way deter patients from receiving their routine care, but we strongly feel this change is in the best interest of the health of all of our patients, team members, and communities during this time”, stated Kerry Hydash, President & CEO.
The organization is following the Center for Disease Control daily guidance and coordination with local health departments. Patients and visitors seeking care at FHCN facilities can expect pre-screening questions such as:
- Does the patient/visitor have a fever or cough or shortness of breath or fatigue?
- Has the person/visitor traveled within 14 days prior to the onset of symptoms to an affected domestic or international geographic area?
- Has the patient/visitor had close contact with a person known to have COVID-19 illness within the last 14 days?
- Has the patient/visitor traveled in a cruise ship in the past 14 days?
Serving over 214,000 patients annually across 39 locations throughout three counties, the organization is taking seriously their part in preventing the spread of COVID -19. The organization has been actively working with the Fresno, Kings, and Tulare County Public Health Departments, local hospitals, and community based organizations. The organization has created a task force that includes their clinical and operational leadership, and other key members of the organization. “Information is fluid, changing daily, and our team members, in particular our clinical and operational leadership have continued to adapt every day over the last two weeks. I commend their commitment to our patients as we navigate through various challenges”, added Hydash.
Family HealthCare Network recommends community members contact their primary care provider if they are having symptoms or have questions. To schedule an appointment at any Family HealthCare Network location, please call 1-877-960-3426 or visit our website at www.FHCN.org
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