News

Moving Forward Together!

Ravalli County is a unique location; we have fresh air, and an abundance of recreational space, access into the valley is limited, and our population is relatively low. Nationally and locally, there are ongoing discussions about open vs. closed, masks vs. no masks, education in the classroom vs. at home or a combination of both, team sports, returning to work, resuming travel, and so much more. These discussions will continue, and our environment will continue to change as we further understand how this virus works, how to treat it, and how to prevent it. While our responsibility as a hospital is to focus on providing for our community's healthcare needs, we also acknowledge the many complex factors that go into each of our lives daily. COVID-19 has affected us economically, socially, emotionally, and physically and mostly not for the better.

We would tell you more than anyone that we have had enough of COVID-19. Unfortunately, COVID-19 is a new virus and appears to be here for the foreseeable future. Time is needed to develop and confirm the efficacy of a vaccine, understand how it is transmitted, to develop herd immunity, and more. There is still much to learn about the transfer, treatment, and control of the spread of COVID-19. At the same time, through research and science, much has been discovered.

Over the past months, all of us have taken steps to control the spread of COVID-19 within our community, healthcare facilities, and businesses. In today's environment, we must look forward to the future with a sense of purpose and hope. Over the last few months, we have identified a few best practices. As you strive to find balance today and into the foreseeable future, we hope you find these best practices helpful.

1. If you are sick, stay home, avoid going to work, school, or other public places until fully recovered. If you own or run a business, ensure your policies and benefits allow for and encourage this behavior.
2. Wash your hands frequently. Wash from fingers to wrist, for a minimum of 20 seconds with soap and water.
3. Avoid touching your face, especially your eyes or mouth.
4. Practice proper hygiene when coughing or sneezing.
5. Whenever possible, maintain appropriate social distance from others.
6. When in areas where you are unable to maintain social distancing wear a face-covering. Masking has protected our team and has safeguarded medical professionals for decades.
7. When gathering choose locations with clean, well-ventilated air, or enjoy using the outdoors whenever possible.
8. Clean high-touch areas and items frequently.
9. If you have been exposed to COVID-19, stay home, and contact your primary care provider, the Viral Clinic, or Ravalli County Public Health for the next steps.
10. If you test positive for COVID-19 do the following unless otherwise instructed:
    1. Discuss your situation with your medical provider or public health.
    2. Separate yourself from others and limit your visitors, COVID-19 is highly-contagious.
    3. If possible, avoid sharing items, food, space, bathrooms, etc.
    4. If symptoms worsen, don’t wait, contact your medical provider or proceed to the emergency department.

Please be kind, patient and take care of yourself and others. Thank you for working together to build a healthier community!

Stay Safe,

Marcus Daly Memorial Hospital