COVID cases surging, testing in high demand
As of Thursday, 47 patients have been accounted for throughout Phoebe Health Systems
ALBANY, Ga. – Phoebe Health Systems on Thursday morning reported seeing an influx of COVID patients. In the last two weeks, the number of patients being cared for at Phoebe has risen 161% a number Dr. Kathy Hudson, Phoebe’s Chief Medical Officer hasn’t seen in months.
There has also been an increase in demand for COVID testing as well, those test results causing the surge in cases in South Georgia.
Scott Steiner, Phoebe Putney Health System President & CEO (Courtesy: Phoebe)
“The COVID surge we have been expecting and warning about is here. Yesterday, the state smashed its one-day record of confirmed new COVID cases. We cannot ignore this significant increase in the spread of the virus. We need everyone to be smart and cautious, particularly as we enter another holiday weekend,” said Scott Steiner, Phoebe Putney Health System President & CEO. “Please avoid large gatherings and wear your mask when you’re inside and around anyone outside of your own household.”
Free COVID-19 tests are offered through county health departments and at many pharmacies. Public Health testing information is available at www.swhealthdistrict.org. Phoebe is offering limited COVID testing at its urgent care and primary care clinics by appointment with an associated visit fee, as those clinics focus on caring for rapidly increasing numbers of patients suffering from COVID symptoms.
“Once again, this pandemic is taxing and testing the Phoebe Family, but our inpatient, outpatient, and emergency teams are here for our communities. This is what we do.” Steiner said. “I am proud of our healthcare heroes, and I know we will overcome these latest challenges.”
