As the Northland battles the COVID-19 pandemic, fear of the virus may be leading people away from local hospitals to get the necessary care needed for other things.  Essentia Health says that is a mistake.

According to Essentia Health officials, hospitals still provide the safest settings for much of the care patients require, including labor and delivery:

At Essentia Health, we are following guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, as well as state departments of health, to continue providing care while minimizing the risk to our patients. We have taken several steps to protect expectant mothers and their babies. Among them, all staff, patients and visitors are screened for COVID-19 each time they enter one of our facilities. We also limit the number of visitors to help contain the spread of this virus and minimize the chances of exposure.

When it comes to labor and delivery, patients practice social distancing by conducting some prenatal and post-partum appointments online.  You're invited to call (844) 663-1068 for more information.

Essentia Health cardiologists are also available 24 hours a day.  You can call the Heart and Vascular Center at (218) 786-3443 to schedule a virtual visit.

If you are experiencing serious symptoms, such as chest pain; shortness of breath; nausea/vomiting; sweating; and jaw or arm pain please call 911.  Symptoms of a heart attack need immediate attention.

The bottom line is don't let the fear of COVID-19 lead you to avoid getting the necessary care needed for other serious symptoms and concerns.

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