Having a baby is a time to celebrate bringing life into the world. But during a pandemic, you might be feeling more reluctant than rejoiced when it comes to delivery in the hospital. We understand those concerns and want you to know that we’re doing everything we can to keep our patients, staff and physicians safe during this uncertain time of COVID-19.
What we’re doing to protect you:
At Northeast Georgia Medical Center (NGMC), we’re committed to providing a safe and healthy delivery. We continue to work closely with the Georgia Department of Public Health and the CDC to create the best care plans for our patients. We have implemented additional precautions to help prevent the spread of COVID-19, including testing of all OB patients, pre-screening prior to entering the hospital, frequent handwashing, limited visitation and expedited discharge to get you and your baby home safely as quickly as possible.
What to know when coming to the hospital:
We’re doing everything we can to ensure that it’s safe for you to come to the hospital for care – both during your pregnancy and when it’s time to deliver. We’ve put the above-mentioned precautions and restrictions in place to help protect our patients first and foremost. All staff, providers and other members of the healthcare team will be wearing masks in our facilities and will also provide masks to visitors and patients.
If you feel sick or believe you may have signs or symptoms of COVID-19, however, it’s important to communicate directly with your provider before coming to the hospital. At this time, we recommend that you do NOT automatically come to the Emergency Room unless you are experiencing life-threatening symptoms to prevent the spread. Both Longstreet Clinic and Northeast Georgia Physicians Group OB/GYN practices are currently offering video visits for patients.
What happens if you have COVID-19:
If you arrive in labor and have signs and symptoms or a diagnosis of COVID-19, our staff will still provide the same great care you’re used to – but we’ll take extra steps to prevent the spread of the virus to your baby and others, including limiting the number of staff entering your room and wearing protective masks and gear while caring for you and your infant. We believe each situation is different and will work with you to provide the best care plan appropriate for you and your family.
Who can visit:
We understand how important it is to have a family with you during such a special time. We also understand, however, the necessity of keeping our patients and staff healthy, which is why we are reducing the number of visitors allowed at this time. Our visitation guidelines may change or be updated as needed, so please be sure to check the current visitation guidelines for our Labor & Delivery, Mother/Baby, and NICU units here.
Thank you for trusting us to care for you during this special time.
Need more information?
For more information about COVID, including the latest data, testing and vaccine information, visit nghs.com/covid. To learn more about Labor & Delivery Services at NGMC, visit nghs.com/women-children.