COVID Chronicle

There are a lot of stories in these pages, stories of teamwork, dedication, and quiet heroism. But there are stories left to be told and the book is still being written. COVID-19 is still present and we are still living in a world of pandemic response. Our goal is to move forward, ready to both return to a new normal providing safe, high quality patient care and to be prepared for a surge of COVID-19 patients. More than any other event in our time as a healthcare system, our response to COVID-19 has brought our system together. The challenges that have always been here remain, but a renewed commitment to lifting one another up and making healthcare work for the people of Maine is driving our day-to-day work. Our return to care is guided by access to three important components: increased testing, access to PPE, and the steady decline in the new number of COVID-19 cases in the state. With these three things in place we are confident in our ability to continue to provide safe, high-quality care. Returning to Care While COVID-19 hasn’t left us, we are returning to a new normal. Our patients’ and communities’ healthcare needs cannot be paused indefinitely. Under the guidance of Infection Prevention and Control and other clinical leaders we have developed a play book for a safe return to extended and elective care.

All our locations – from hospitals to healthcare centers – have implemented enhanced safety measures to keep you safe:

Masks or other personal protective equipment are worn by all caregivers and doctors.

Pre-screening occurs before appointments, with temperature and symptom checks for anyone visiting our facilities in person.

Anyone arriving at our locations must wear a mask or cloth face covering, and most visitors are not permitted.

New seating arrangements, signs, and other means to support safe physical distancing are in place.

All spaces are cleaned and sanitized per strict Northern Light Health medical standards.

Patients with COVID-19 or COVID-19 symptoms are treated by dedicated staff in designated areas.

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