Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) Updates
News and updates on the local COVID-19 response
Free COVID-19 Screening
Please note that the screening is for asymptomatic people only. If anyone has symptoms, they should not come to the event. They should call the clinic at 707-884-4005 to make other arrangements.
RCMS is pleased to announce that, in collaboration with the Mendocino and Sonoma County Health Departments, we will be performing another COVID19 screening event. Residents of both Sonoma County and Mendocino County are invited to attend. We are hopeful that this will be the beginning of recurrent screening events for our counties.
When: Sunday May 24, 2020 from 8:00 am until we run out of swabs
How Many Will Be Screened: 300
Who can be screened:
What do you need to bring:
Where is the screening: The upper parking lot at RCMS, by the Treatment Tent. (You will be directed by a “Traffic Person” to your parking spot.) PLEASE DO NOT GO TO THE RCMS BUILDING.
What to expect:
Please note that the screening is for asymptomatic people only. If anyone has symptoms, they should not come to the event. They should call the clinic at 707-884-4005 to make other arrangements.
RCMS is pleased to announce that, in collaboration with the Mendocino and Sonoma County Health Departments, we will be performing another COVID19 screening event. Residents of both Sonoma County and Mendocino County are invited to attend. We are hopeful that this will be the beginning of recurrent screening events for our counties.
When: Sunday May 24, 2020 from 8:00 am until we run out of swabs
How Many Will Be Screened: 300
Who can be screened:
- ROUND 1: 8:00am – 10:30am: ONLY First Responders (e.g. EMTs, Firefighters, Police/Security, Medical Personnel) AND Essential Personnel (Post Office Employees, Government Employees, Store Employees and others who have been working in front line positions servicing the community during Shelter in Place). This is not invitation only – so any person meeting the above criteria is welcome to get screened (until we run out of swabs). If you do not meet ROUND 1 screening criteria, you will be asked to return after 10:30am to ROUND 2 screening.
- ROUND 2: 10:30am – until we run out of swabs: ANY resident of Sonoma County or Mendocino County who would like to be screened for COVID19. This includes First Responders and Essential Personnel who could not make it to Round 1.
What do you need to bring:
- If you are in ROUND 1: ( First Responder or Essential Worker), bring proof of your job (work ID, EMT license, paystub from your work, or some other proof of your work) and 2) a photo ID which proves you are a Sonoma/Mendocino county resident.
- If you are in ROUND 2: Bring a photo ID with your name and date of birth which proves you are a Sonoma/Mendocino county resident.
Where is the screening: The upper parking lot at RCMS, by the Treatment Tent. (You will be directed by a “Traffic Person” to your parking spot.) PLEASE DO NOT GO TO THE RCMS BUILDING.
What to expect:
- Drive to the upper RCMS parking lot at the Gualala clinic. DO NOT GO TO THE MAIN RCMS BUILDING. You will be stopped by a Traffic Volunteer who will ask to see IDs, and collect personal information, of all persons in your vehicle.
- You will be directed into a parking space. Stay in your vehicle. You will be met by a second volunteer who will complete paperwork for you and all persons in your vehicle.
- If you are alone in your vehicle, you will be tested for COVID19 sitting in your vehicle. If there is more than one person in your vehicle, you will be asked to leave the vehicle to be tested (so you do not contaminate other passengers)
- You will be swabbed in your nose or your throat.
- Test kits will be sent to a lab at UCSF. Results may take 4-7 days to return. You will receive a phone call with your results from the health department once testing has returned. You do not need to isolate/quarantine at home while awaiting your results. If you test COVID19 positive, you will be contacted by RCMS for your medical care, and the Health Department to isolate for 14 days and to do contact tracing.
- PLEASE NOTE: Screenings are public events. We will do our best to respect your privacy when possible, but your screening will be performed in a public space, and may be observed by other people who are also attending the screening.
Information on Disaster Relief Assistance for Immigrants
The Disaster Relief Assistance for Immigrants (DRAI) is a one-time, state-funded disaster relief program for undocumented adult immigrants impacted by COVID-19. Qualified applicants can receive up to $500 in direct assistance, and up to $1,000 per household. For more information visit https://covid19.ca.gov/guide-immigrant-californians/.
The Disaster Relief Assistance for Immigrants (DRAI) is a one-time, state-funded disaster relief program for undocumented adult immigrants impacted by COVID-19. Qualified applicants can receive up to $500 in direct assistance, and up to $1,000 per household. For more information visit https://covid19.ca.gov/guide-immigrant-californians/.
Update on Emergency Dental Hours
Effective Monday May 11th, the Dental clinic will be open Monday’s from 8:00 am - 5:00 pm and on Wednesday’s 8:00 am- 12:00 pm for emergency patients. For the health and safety of our staff and our community, non-urgent dental treatments have been postponed until an unknown date. This determination will be done on a case by case basis in order to decide whether the dental facility is an appropriate setting to provide the necessary services needed. Please call our dental facility at (707) 882-2189 before coming in.
Effective Monday May 11th, the Dental clinic will be open Monday’s from 8:00 am - 5:00 pm and on Wednesday’s 8:00 am- 12:00 pm for emergency patients. For the health and safety of our staff and our community, non-urgent dental treatments have been postponed until an unknown date. This determination will be done on a case by case basis in order to decide whether the dental facility is an appropriate setting to provide the necessary services needed. Please call our dental facility at (707) 882-2189 before coming in.
Results From COVID-19 Targeted Screening
RCMS has received the results of the targeted COVID-19 testing that we performed last week in coordination with Mendocino county Public Health Department. All test results came back negative. We sincerely appreciate the participants, the volunteers, and our staff for their involvement in this important activity for our community. Please continue to follow the guidelines given out by Public Health Departments and stay safe and healthy.
RCMS has received the results of the targeted COVID-19 testing that we performed last week in coordination with Mendocino county Public Health Department. All test results came back negative. We sincerely appreciate the participants, the volunteers, and our staff for their involvement in this important activity for our community. Please continue to follow the guidelines given out by Public Health Departments and stay safe and healthy.
RCMS Community Update – April 30, 2020
A Message from RCMS on our Procedures to
Keep you Safe During Your Visit to Our Clinics
We would like to reassure our community that we are taking all necessary steps to make sure that our providers, staff and patients are protected during medical visits.
Please remember, medical visits are considered “essential business” under the shelter in place orders. Don’t delay if you need day-to-day or emergent medical care. Our sites in Gualala and Point Arena are open.
We are here for you. Call before you come at (707) 884-4005.
What you need to know:
RCMS is following all guidelines and orders from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), State Health Department and Mendocino County Public Health.
RCMS team members are consistently being updated by Mendocino County Public Health. The staff is briefed every morning about any changes from the day before as to new protocols and any new or expanded orders from County Public Health Officer.
All providers, staff and volunteers take temperatures at the beginning of their shifts and before leaving work for the day. If they are not feeling well or have an elevated temperature, they are evaluated in our Urgent Care. Any staff person with symptoms of respiratory illness is tested for COVID19 and sent home to self-isolate until their test results return; they are also required to remain at home for 72 hours after their symptoms have resolved – following recommendations of the CDC and Health Department.
All of our providers and clinical staff wear masks in all areas of the clinic and the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) when seeing patients. All staff members wash their hands with soap and water, or use hand sanitizer, prior to any patient encounter. If you did not notice your care provider washing their hands prior to your visit, please feel free to ask them to do so.
RCMS is working to reduce risk of exposure to patients with respiratory illness by maintaining two “non-respiratory clinics”, one at the Sea Watch building (across from the main Gualala clinic) and the other in Point Arena. At these locations we do not admit any patients with fever, cough or cold symptoms. Patients temperatures are checked before entering these facilities and patients are required to wear facial coverings. We try to move patients directly into examination rooms instead of having them wait in the waiting room. We also give patients the option of waiting in their cars until an exam room has opened up. If patients sit in waiting rooms, they are asked to maintain at least 6 feet of social distancing and are required to wear cloth masks. Patients with cough/cold/fever symptoms are directed into exam rooms and do not sit with others in waiting rooms.
If you have any questions on our safety protocols or need additional information, please call (707) 884-4005. We are proud of our entire RCMS team for their flexibility and effort during these unique times.
Primary Care and Urgent Care are Open
PLEASE CALL BEFORE YOU COME (707) 884-4005
A Message from RCMS on our Procedures to
Keep you Safe During Your Visit to Our Clinics
We would like to reassure our community that we are taking all necessary steps to make sure that our providers, staff and patients are protected during medical visits.
Please remember, medical visits are considered “essential business” under the shelter in place orders. Don’t delay if you need day-to-day or emergent medical care. Our sites in Gualala and Point Arena are open.
We are here for you. Call before you come at (707) 884-4005.
What you need to know:
RCMS is following all guidelines and orders from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), State Health Department and Mendocino County Public Health.
RCMS team members are consistently being updated by Mendocino County Public Health. The staff is briefed every morning about any changes from the day before as to new protocols and any new or expanded orders from County Public Health Officer.
All providers, staff and volunteers take temperatures at the beginning of their shifts and before leaving work for the day. If they are not feeling well or have an elevated temperature, they are evaluated in our Urgent Care. Any staff person with symptoms of respiratory illness is tested for COVID19 and sent home to self-isolate until their test results return; they are also required to remain at home for 72 hours after their symptoms have resolved – following recommendations of the CDC and Health Department.
All of our providers and clinical staff wear masks in all areas of the clinic and the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) when seeing patients. All staff members wash their hands with soap and water, or use hand sanitizer, prior to any patient encounter. If you did not notice your care provider washing their hands prior to your visit, please feel free to ask them to do so.
RCMS is working to reduce risk of exposure to patients with respiratory illness by maintaining two “non-respiratory clinics”, one at the Sea Watch building (across from the main Gualala clinic) and the other in Point Arena. At these locations we do not admit any patients with fever, cough or cold symptoms. Patients temperatures are checked before entering these facilities and patients are required to wear facial coverings. We try to move patients directly into examination rooms instead of having them wait in the waiting room. We also give patients the option of waiting in their cars until an exam room has opened up. If patients sit in waiting rooms, they are asked to maintain at least 6 feet of social distancing and are required to wear cloth masks. Patients with cough/cold/fever symptoms are directed into exam rooms and do not sit with others in waiting rooms.
- The triage tent outside of the main clinic is for intake and temperature checks. The Gualala Clinic is now divided into non-respiratory complaints/symptom patients and upper respiratory symptom patients. After initial intake, patients are guided by staff to the appropriate area of the clinic.
- Rooms are sanitized between patients just like they have been in the past.
- RCMS recently had ventilation upgrades in all exam rooms used for respiratory patients. Mobile HEPA filtration devices are also available.
- When patients call in for appointment, they are offered a choice for face-to-face or the opportunity to have their appointment by video call or telephone call, if appropriate for their situation. All of our medical providers are offering telephone visits and some are offering video conference calls.
- All patients, and those accompanying them, have their temperature taken before entering any of the clinic sites. Patients with fever are only allowed into the Gualala clinic, and only into areas designated for patients with fevers. They are not allowed to sit in waiting rooms with other patients.
- All patients, and those accompanying them, are required to wear a fabric facial covering before entering any of the clinic sites If they arrive in without one, they are given one. Patients with respiratory complaints are only allowed to be accompanied by one family member; family members may be asked to wait outside or in a vehicle to avoid exposure to the patient in a closed space.
- Recommended physical distancing is still maintained in any waiting areas. If the patient load becomes too congested for the waiting room, patients will be directed to return to their car and wait to be escorted in.
- Laboratory blood draws are still being done at RCMS, including in the “non-respiratory” clinics (Sea Watch and Point Arena) by appointment only, including orders from outside providers. Please call (707) 884-4005 for appointment scheduling and additional requirements.
If you have any questions on our safety protocols or need additional information, please call (707) 884-4005. We are proud of our entire RCMS team for their flexibility and effort during these unique times.
Primary Care and Urgent Care are Open
PLEASE CALL BEFORE YOU COME (707) 884-4005
COVID-19 Targeted Screening Test Update - Click the link to read the update on our news page. Posted 4/30/20
RCMS Community Update – April 15, 2020
Primary Care and Urgent Care are Open
PLEASE CALL BEFORE YOU COME (707) 884-4005
COVID-19 Preparations at the Clinic
RCMS continues to prepare for a potential surge in patients related to the coronavirus (COVID-19). Our main Gualala Clinic has been divided into respiratory and non-respiratory illness sections. We continue to see all urgent medical issues — respiratory and non-respiratory.
Sea Watch in Gualala (across from main clinic) and the RCMS Point Arena Medical Clinic are open for Primary Care for patients without infectious respiratory symptoms. We have providers available for well child visits and vaccinations (important not to get behind), lab/blood draws ordered by your primary care provider or outside provider, prescriptions and refills, and chronic and other health care maintenance issues. Please call us at (707) 884-4005 to schedule your appointment.
During this time of uncertainty, please remember to take care of yourself. We are here for you.
Telehealth Visits Available
Your health is important us! If you unable to come to one of our clinics in person, consider a telehealth visit. A provider can call you at home and/or connect with you on a video platform (requires a smart phone with a camera or a computer) and address your medical concerns. Please call us at (707) 884-4005 to schedule your telehealth appointment.
Reminder: Wear Face Coverings in Public
The Sonoma County Health Officer issued a Health Order on April 13, 2020 that requires members of the public to wear facial coverings. The Health Order will go into effect 12:01 a.m. on April 17, 2020.
Per the Health Order: All persons in Sonoma County shall wear facial coverings in the following situations:
Face coverings, when worn by someone with COVID-19, even if they don’t have symptoms, may reduce the risk of spreading the virus to others. Since not everyone with COVID-19 knows that they are sick, wearing a face covering helps make sure that you are not unknowingly affecting others. If worn by everyone when outside the home doing essential activities, this can help slow the overall spread of the virus and keep our community safer.
The Mendocino County Health Officer issued guidance on face coverings on April 3, 2020 which recommended everyone who leaves their home for essential activity wear a face covering.
Be Counted in the 2020 Census
Census results help determine future funding for many of the critical healthcare and emergency services being used today. It is easy to respond to the 2020 Census on your own, whether online, over the phone or by mail—all without having to meet a census taker. Help shape our future. Respond Now! My2020census.gov.
Primary Care and Urgent Care are Open
PLEASE CALL BEFORE YOU COME (707) 884-4005
COVID-19 Preparations at the Clinic
RCMS continues to prepare for a potential surge in patients related to the coronavirus (COVID-19). Our main Gualala Clinic has been divided into respiratory and non-respiratory illness sections. We continue to see all urgent medical issues — respiratory and non-respiratory.
Sea Watch in Gualala (across from main clinic) and the RCMS Point Arena Medical Clinic are open for Primary Care for patients without infectious respiratory symptoms. We have providers available for well child visits and vaccinations (important not to get behind), lab/blood draws ordered by your primary care provider or outside provider, prescriptions and refills, and chronic and other health care maintenance issues. Please call us at (707) 884-4005 to schedule your appointment.
During this time of uncertainty, please remember to take care of yourself. We are here for you.
Telehealth Visits Available
Your health is important us! If you unable to come to one of our clinics in person, consider a telehealth visit. A provider can call you at home and/or connect with you on a video platform (requires a smart phone with a camera or a computer) and address your medical concerns. Please call us at (707) 884-4005 to schedule your telehealth appointment.
Reminder: Wear Face Coverings in Public
The Sonoma County Health Officer issued a Health Order on April 13, 2020 that requires members of the public to wear facial coverings. The Health Order will go into effect 12:01 a.m. on April 17, 2020.
Per the Health Order: All persons in Sonoma County shall wear facial coverings in the following situations:
- Before they enter any indoor facility besides their residence. Examples: grocery stores, laundromats/dry cleaners, work facilities, post office, etc.
- In any enclosed open space. Examples: outdoor work sites, construction sites, taxis/rideshares, or buses.
- When outdoors if the person is unable to maintain a six-foot distance from another person at all times. Examples: Farmer’s market, pumping gas, drive thru/delivery/carry out/curbside pickup, etc.
Face coverings, when worn by someone with COVID-19, even if they don’t have symptoms, may reduce the risk of spreading the virus to others. Since not everyone with COVID-19 knows that they are sick, wearing a face covering helps make sure that you are not unknowingly affecting others. If worn by everyone when outside the home doing essential activities, this can help slow the overall spread of the virus and keep our community safer.
The Mendocino County Health Officer issued guidance on face coverings on April 3, 2020 which recommended everyone who leaves their home for essential activity wear a face covering.
Be Counted in the 2020 Census
Census results help determine future funding for many of the critical healthcare and emergency services being used today. It is easy to respond to the 2020 Census on your own, whether online, over the phone or by mail—all without having to meet a census taker. Help shape our future. Respond Now! My2020census.gov.
RCMS Community Update – April 6, 2020
PLEASE CALL BEFORE YOU COME (707-884-4005) for Urgent or Primary Care
While we hope it does not happen, we at Redwood Coast Medical Services (RCMS), in conjunction with the Mendocino County Health Department and other emergency responders, continue to remain vigilant and prepared for COVID-19 related patient surge. We will keep the community updated as needed.
Masks in Public: Per the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Mendocino County Health Department, it is now recommended that all persons cover their face while in public, with a mask, bandana, scarf or other type of cloth barrier. This will help reduce risk of spreading infection via droplets to other people. Please continue to preserve N95 masks – which are in short supply – for first responders and health care providers.
Medical and Non-Medical Volunteers Needed: If you are a current or former health care professional, or you are interested in helping your community during this COVID19 pandemic, please add your name to our Medical and Non-Medical Volunteer list on the RCMS webpage at: https://www.rcms-healthcare.org/medical-volunteers.html We will contact you if we could use your help.
PLEASE CALL BEFORE YOU COME (707-884-4005) for Urgent or Primary Care
While we hope it does not happen, we at Redwood Coast Medical Services (RCMS), in conjunction with the Mendocino County Health Department and other emergency responders, continue to remain vigilant and prepared for COVID-19 related patient surge. We will keep the community updated as needed.
Masks in Public: Per the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Mendocino County Health Department, it is now recommended that all persons cover their face while in public, with a mask, bandana, scarf or other type of cloth barrier. This will help reduce risk of spreading infection via droplets to other people. Please continue to preserve N95 masks – which are in short supply – for first responders and health care providers.
Medical and Non-Medical Volunteers Needed: If you are a current or former health care professional, or you are interested in helping your community during this COVID19 pandemic, please add your name to our Medical and Non-Medical Volunteer list on the RCMS webpage at: https://www.rcms-healthcare.org/medical-volunteers.html We will contact you if we could use your help.
RCMS Community Update March 30, 2020
PLEASE CALL BEFORE YOU COME (707-884-4005) for Urgent or Primary Care
COVID-19 Testing
Given the shortage of test kits, we are following the Public Health Department protocol and guidelines regarding who will be tested. Not everyone is tested. Given the current lab turnaround time, it could take 7+ days for us to get the results.
If you are tested, you will be instructed to follow the Public Health Department’s self-isolation guidelines that are provided to us
Urgent Care
Main Gualala Building, for the time being, is converted into an Urgent Care only facility.
While our focus is those with respiratory issues, Urgent Care is still seeing all other urgent/emergent medical conditions. We have divided Urgent Care into respiratory and non-respiratory zones in an effort to keep patients safe.
PLEASE CALL FIRST so that we can direct you to the appropriate clinic for your care. Once you arrive at the facility, you will be received at the Triage tent outside and the nurse there will guide you to the appropriate location in our facility.
Primary Care
We are also available, think it is important, and want to continue to provide access to Primary Care services. This can be done in couple of ways.
If you are able to come into the clinic:
If you are not able to come to the clinic:
Please note that a clinic visit for getting medical care is not restricted under shelter in place guidelines. You are still allowed to visit your medical provider.
Our providers and support staff are following appropriate guidelines regarding wearing protection gear. All our facilities are regularly disinfected as required
RCMS Contingency Plan
We continue to update our contingency plan as COVID-19 related situation evolves. These include, but are not limited to:
We, at RCMS, are focused on keeping our community safe and healthy during this stressful time. And we very much appreciate all the help and support we are getting from the community.
PLEASE FOLLOW ALL THE GUIDELINES GIVEN TO US BY THE PUBLIC HEALTH OFFICIAL
PLEASE CALL BEFORE YOU COME (707-884-4005) for Urgent or Primary Care
COVID-19 Testing
Given the shortage of test kits, we are following the Public Health Department protocol and guidelines regarding who will be tested. Not everyone is tested. Given the current lab turnaround time, it could take 7+ days for us to get the results.
If you are tested, you will be instructed to follow the Public Health Department’s self-isolation guidelines that are provided to us
Urgent Care
Main Gualala Building, for the time being, is converted into an Urgent Care only facility.
While our focus is those with respiratory issues, Urgent Care is still seeing all other urgent/emergent medical conditions. We have divided Urgent Care into respiratory and non-respiratory zones in an effort to keep patients safe.
PLEASE CALL FIRST so that we can direct you to the appropriate clinic for your care. Once you arrive at the facility, you will be received at the Triage tent outside and the nurse there will guide you to the appropriate location in our facility.
Primary Care
We are also available, think it is important, and want to continue to provide access to Primary Care services. This can be done in couple of ways.
If you are able to come into the clinic:
- Sea Watch in Gualala and the RCMS Point Arena Medical Clinic are open for Primary Care to patients without infectious respiratory symptoms.
- We have providers available for well child visits and vaccinations (important not to get behind), lab/blood draws ordered by your PCP and outside providers, INR’s, A1c’s, MAT rx and med refills, and chronic and other health care maintenance issues.
If you are not able to come to the clinic:
- Over age 65, chronic medical issues: copd, emphysema, heart disease, diabetes, asthma, other lung issues, or are immunocompromised; or due to transportation or other challenges cannot get into the clinic, you can set up a Telehealth visit.
- One of our providers can call you at home and/or connect with you on a video platform (requires a smart phone with a camera or a computer) and address your medical concerns.
Please note that a clinic visit for getting medical care is not restricted under shelter in place guidelines. You are still allowed to visit your medical provider.
Our providers and support staff are following appropriate guidelines regarding wearing protection gear. All our facilities are regularly disinfected as required
RCMS Contingency Plan
We continue to update our contingency plan as COVID-19 related situation evolves. These include, but are not limited to:
- Convert the Gualala main building into an urgent care only facility, if needed
- Rotation plan for our providers and clinic support staff for extended coverage to care for patients
- Additional facilities (tents) in case of surge in Urgent Care patients
- Coordination with CLSD, local Fire departments
- Constant communication with County Public Health Department for help and coordination
- Putting together a list of volunteers, both medical and non-medical, for need during a surge
- Having adequate medical supplies
We, at RCMS, are focused on keeping our community safe and healthy during this stressful time. And we very much appreciate all the help and support we are getting from the community.
PLEASE FOLLOW ALL THE GUIDELINES GIVEN TO US BY THE PUBLIC HEALTH OFFICIAL
RCMS Community Update March 25, 2020
Urgent Care
Focus has been on taking care of urgent care patients , especially those with respiratory issues. Urgent Care is still seeing all other urgent/emergent medical conditions, and we have divided the clinic into respiratory and non-respiratory zones in an effort to keep patients safe. PLEASE CALL BEFORE YOU COME.
Primary Care
We are also available, think it is important, and want to continue to provide access to Primary Care services. This can be done in a few ways.
If you are worried about leaving your home and are sheltering in place:
If you are able to come into the clinic:
We also will be looking through our medical records and you may get a call from us if your provider thinks it is important to have either a Telehealth or in person visit.
We want to keep you and our community healthy!
Thank you
Urgent Care
Focus has been on taking care of urgent care patients , especially those with respiratory issues. Urgent Care is still seeing all other urgent/emergent medical conditions, and we have divided the clinic into respiratory and non-respiratory zones in an effort to keep patients safe. PLEASE CALL BEFORE YOU COME.
Primary Care
We are also available, think it is important, and want to continue to provide access to Primary Care services. This can be done in a few ways.
If you are worried about leaving your home and are sheltering in place:
- Over age 65, chronic medical issues: copd, emphysema, heart disease, diabetes, asthma, other lung issues, or are immune compromised; or due to transportation or other challenges cannot get into the clinic, you can set up a Telehealth visit.
- One of our providers can call you at home and/or connect with you on a video platform(requires a smart phone with a camera or a computer) and address your medical concerns.
- Telehealth visits can be scheduled by calling 884-4005/882-1704
If you are able to come into the clinic:
- Sea Watch in Gualala and the RCMS Point Arena Medical Clinic are still up and running.
- We are only seeing asymptomatic patients at these two sites. No one who is sick with fevers or respiratory issues!
- (The main Gualala clinic is reserved for Urgent Care and patients with symptoms).
- We have providers available for well child visits and vaccinations(important not to get behind), lab/blood draws ordered by your PCP and outside providers, INR’s, A1c’s, MAT rx and med refills, and chronic and other health care maintenance issues.
We also will be looking through our medical records and you may get a call from us if your provider thinks it is important to have either a Telehealth or in person visit.
We want to keep you and our community healthy!
Thank you
Procedures for Evaluating/Testing Patients with Respiratory Symptoms during COVID-19 Pandemic March 23, 2020
Dear Mendonoma friends and neighbors:
Here is an update on where RCMS stands regarding the current pandemic.
While we continue to request more test kits, because we are only getting a small fraction of what we are asking for, we cannot test everyone.
Testing criteria for Coronavirus are provided to RCMS by the Mendocino County Health Department, and we are required to comply with these criteria.
Because Coronavirus (COVID-19) was detected in a patient in Mendocino County last week, the Health Department has moved from the Detection phase to the Containment/Mitigation phase of our reaction. This also impacts our Coronavirus testing.
We understand and acknowledge that people are concerned and many want to be tested – even if they have no symptoms or mild cold symptoms. But because the supply of test kits is limited, we must reserve them for patients who show specific symptoms and meet precise clinical testing criteria. Our clinicians and health care providers are working collaboratively with the County Health Department to determine who should be tested following the protocol established for our current containment phase.
Testing priorities are given to ill patients who show specific symptoms and are in high risk populations (due to a particular chronic illness and/or of elderly status), and in essential professions (e.g., medical providers, EMS providers, firefighters, and other essential personnel).
Because of the shortage of the test kits, we are not testing patients without symptoms. Some patients evaluated with cold/flu like symptoms (but not in the testing priority group) will be sent home without testing -- and may be asked to self-quarantine for 14 days following Health Department guidelines.
If you are asked to self-quarantine, you should:
1) Isolate yourself in your own room, if possible.
2) Use your own bathroom, if possible.
3) Wipe down bathroom and commonly touched surfaces several times a day with a disinfecting solution. Those surfaces include sinks, toilet handles, door handles, cell phones, house phones, countertops, and any horizontal surface.
4) Avoid going into public.
5) If interacting with family/roommates, wear a protective mask.
Go to www.cdc.gov\\COVID19 for further information.
Please note that the lab to which we have been asked to send our tests says it might take up to 7 days to get test results back. The lab does not have the capacity to quickly handle the volume of tests they are receiving.
What happens if you test positive for COVID-19:
If you test positive, the lab will inform your RCMS Medical Provider immediately. RCMS will then contact you, the patient, and discuss a treatment plan. RCMS will then contact the Health Department. The Health Department takes over the case from then on. RCMS is required by law to keep your information confidential.
If you have been in contact with a COVID-19 case in your community or in travel:
· And have NO SYMPTOMS, and have not yet been contacted by the Health Department, please: 1) self-isolate in your home; 2) contact the Health Department Coronavirus Hotline at 707-234-6052 for direction. They will advise you what to do next.
· If you have fever with cough/flu/cold symptoms, call RCMS and speak to a Triage Nurse or Provider, who will guide you in what to do, based on your symptoms and Health Department Guidelines.
If you are just sick with cough/cold/flu symptoms but have had no COVID-19 contacts: PLEASE CALL THE CLINIC FIRST BEFORE COMING TO THE CLINIC. 707-884-4005
You will be triaged by a Nurse or Provider, who will advise you what to do.
If you have other medical concerns – such as an injury, illness, or medical need like a medication refill or vaccination:
RCMS has three clinics: Gualala, Sea Watch and Point Arena.
· The Sea Watch and Point Arena Clinics will continue to see our primary care patients as well as non-respiratory/cough/feverish patients.
· The Gualala clinic will continue to see some scheduled primary care patients, as well as all emergencies/urgent care needs – including respiratory illnesses.
PLEASE CALL AHEAD AT 707-884-4005 SO WE CAN PLAN FOR YOUR ARRIVAL AT THE PROPER CLINIC, NO MATTER WHAT YOUR MEDICAL CONCERN.
We are very grateful for your patience at this stressful time. As situations change, we are committed to keeping you informed.
Please remain in social isolation, per mandate of Sonoma and Mendocino County governments. This is the most essential strategy to stop the spread of the Coronavirus (COVID19) in our community.
And if you can, please reach out your local, state, and federal representatives to let them know the shortage of test kits which is significantly impacting our ability to do appropriate testing and help control this pandemic.
Most of all, thank you for taking every precaution to protect yourself and our community. Please stay safe!
Dear Mendonoma friends and neighbors:
Here is an update on where RCMS stands regarding the current pandemic.
While we continue to request more test kits, because we are only getting a small fraction of what we are asking for, we cannot test everyone.
Testing criteria for Coronavirus are provided to RCMS by the Mendocino County Health Department, and we are required to comply with these criteria.
Because Coronavirus (COVID-19) was detected in a patient in Mendocino County last week, the Health Department has moved from the Detection phase to the Containment/Mitigation phase of our reaction. This also impacts our Coronavirus testing.
We understand and acknowledge that people are concerned and many want to be tested – even if they have no symptoms or mild cold symptoms. But because the supply of test kits is limited, we must reserve them for patients who show specific symptoms and meet precise clinical testing criteria. Our clinicians and health care providers are working collaboratively with the County Health Department to determine who should be tested following the protocol established for our current containment phase.
Testing priorities are given to ill patients who show specific symptoms and are in high risk populations (due to a particular chronic illness and/or of elderly status), and in essential professions (e.g., medical providers, EMS providers, firefighters, and other essential personnel).
Because of the shortage of the test kits, we are not testing patients without symptoms. Some patients evaluated with cold/flu like symptoms (but not in the testing priority group) will be sent home without testing -- and may be asked to self-quarantine for 14 days following Health Department guidelines.
If you are asked to self-quarantine, you should:
1) Isolate yourself in your own room, if possible.
2) Use your own bathroom, if possible.
3) Wipe down bathroom and commonly touched surfaces several times a day with a disinfecting solution. Those surfaces include sinks, toilet handles, door handles, cell phones, house phones, countertops, and any horizontal surface.
4) Avoid going into public.
5) If interacting with family/roommates, wear a protective mask.
Go to www.cdc.gov\\COVID19 for further information.
Please note that the lab to which we have been asked to send our tests says it might take up to 7 days to get test results back. The lab does not have the capacity to quickly handle the volume of tests they are receiving.
What happens if you test positive for COVID-19:
If you test positive, the lab will inform your RCMS Medical Provider immediately. RCMS will then contact you, the patient, and discuss a treatment plan. RCMS will then contact the Health Department. The Health Department takes over the case from then on. RCMS is required by law to keep your information confidential.
If you have been in contact with a COVID-19 case in your community or in travel:
· And have NO SYMPTOMS, and have not yet been contacted by the Health Department, please: 1) self-isolate in your home; 2) contact the Health Department Coronavirus Hotline at 707-234-6052 for direction. They will advise you what to do next.
· If you have fever with cough/flu/cold symptoms, call RCMS and speak to a Triage Nurse or Provider, who will guide you in what to do, based on your symptoms and Health Department Guidelines.
If you are just sick with cough/cold/flu symptoms but have had no COVID-19 contacts: PLEASE CALL THE CLINIC FIRST BEFORE COMING TO THE CLINIC. 707-884-4005
You will be triaged by a Nurse or Provider, who will advise you what to do.
If you have other medical concerns – such as an injury, illness, or medical need like a medication refill or vaccination:
RCMS has three clinics: Gualala, Sea Watch and Point Arena.
· The Sea Watch and Point Arena Clinics will continue to see our primary care patients as well as non-respiratory/cough/feverish patients.
· The Gualala clinic will continue to see some scheduled primary care patients, as well as all emergencies/urgent care needs – including respiratory illnesses.
PLEASE CALL AHEAD AT 707-884-4005 SO WE CAN PLAN FOR YOUR ARRIVAL AT THE PROPER CLINIC, NO MATTER WHAT YOUR MEDICAL CONCERN.
We are very grateful for your patience at this stressful time. As situations change, we are committed to keeping you informed.
Please remain in social isolation, per mandate of Sonoma and Mendocino County governments. This is the most essential strategy to stop the spread of the Coronavirus (COVID19) in our community.
And if you can, please reach out your local, state, and federal representatives to let them know the shortage of test kits which is significantly impacting our ability to do appropriate testing and help control this pandemic.
Most of all, thank you for taking every precaution to protect yourself and our community. Please stay safe!
Shelter-In-Place Orders Mendocino and Sonoma Counties March 19, 2020
Read the full story on our news page at:
First Confirmed Case of COVID-19 in Mendocino County. Health Officer Orders County Residents Shelter-In-Place
Read the full story on our news page at:
First Confirmed Case of COVID-19 in Mendocino County. Health Officer Orders County Residents Shelter-In-Place
RCMS Prepares for COVID-19 Coronavirus March 17, 2020
Dear Mendonoma Community:
I am writing this advisory to inform you of changes RCMS is making to our normal procedures in preparation for the possible influx to our Urgent Care of higher numbers of patients with respiratory distress and related symptoms. These steps are proactive, to prevent overwhelming our Urgent Care.
1.The Gualala Clinic will expand its Urgent Care (UC) space. It will be staffed by two providers. The first will attend to UC patients. The second provider will provide UC back-up as needed, while seeing primary care patients as time permits.
2.Non-Urgent Care/ Primary Care (e.g. normal primary care follow-ups, particularly for more pressing primary care issues) will be performed at Sea Watch (39150 Ocean Drive) and Point Arena. Sea Watch and Point Arena may have 2 providers at once.
3.Triage Tent: We have erected a tent in front of Urgent Care (for all triage) and a tent behind the parking lot for use for possible patient overflow. (Note: Triage is the process of sorting people based on their need for immediate medical treatment)
RCMS will start sending all respiratory/flu/cough/cold patients to the Gualala clinic. We are also strongly encouraging all patients (not just cough/cold/flu) to call 707-884-4005 before coming in. This will allow us to properly triage and isolate possible Coronavirus patients, as well as reduce risk of contaminating our other clinics.
CORONAVIRUS TESTING: We are NOT testing everyone nor doing screening for patients not showing any symptoms. Due to limited testing supplies, we have strict protocols for testing and non-testing, made by the providers on a case by case situation. If you are tested, you might be sent home to self-quarantine until your coronavirus test returns. Currently this is a 72 hours turnaround process. RCMS will exercise appropriate treatment protocol depending on the test result.
MASS CASUALTY PLAN: In the event that acutely ill patient numbers stress the system, we will shift to have more Providers doing Urgent Care duties. We have placed a treatment tent behind the parking lot for patient overflow. In addition, we are cooperating with the Coastal Life Support District (CLSD), the Fire Department, and Health Department to make future plans for this emergency.
OUR STAFF AND STAFF FAMILY HEALTH: We are actively monitoring the health of our staff. We will use the same protocol regarding testing/treating our staff. Our staff are wearing personal protective equipment consistent with protocols provided by the CDC.
RCMS understands that Coronavirus presents a challenging and stressful time for all Mendonomans. We are monitoring changes on a daily, even hourly, basis. We want you to know that RCMS is here for you. The RCMS staff and board urge you to be kind, calm, and patient with each other.
Ara Chakrabarti
Chief Executive Officer
Dear Mendonoma Community:
I am writing this advisory to inform you of changes RCMS is making to our normal procedures in preparation for the possible influx to our Urgent Care of higher numbers of patients with respiratory distress and related symptoms. These steps are proactive, to prevent overwhelming our Urgent Care.
1.The Gualala Clinic will expand its Urgent Care (UC) space. It will be staffed by two providers. The first will attend to UC patients. The second provider will provide UC back-up as needed, while seeing primary care patients as time permits.
2.Non-Urgent Care/ Primary Care (e.g. normal primary care follow-ups, particularly for more pressing primary care issues) will be performed at Sea Watch (39150 Ocean Drive) and Point Arena. Sea Watch and Point Arena may have 2 providers at once.
3.Triage Tent: We have erected a tent in front of Urgent Care (for all triage) and a tent behind the parking lot for use for possible patient overflow. (Note: Triage is the process of sorting people based on their need for immediate medical treatment)
RCMS will start sending all respiratory/flu/cough/cold patients to the Gualala clinic. We are also strongly encouraging all patients (not just cough/cold/flu) to call 707-884-4005 before coming in. This will allow us to properly triage and isolate possible Coronavirus patients, as well as reduce risk of contaminating our other clinics.
CORONAVIRUS TESTING: We are NOT testing everyone nor doing screening for patients not showing any symptoms. Due to limited testing supplies, we have strict protocols for testing and non-testing, made by the providers on a case by case situation. If you are tested, you might be sent home to self-quarantine until your coronavirus test returns. Currently this is a 72 hours turnaround process. RCMS will exercise appropriate treatment protocol depending on the test result.
MASS CASUALTY PLAN: In the event that acutely ill patient numbers stress the system, we will shift to have more Providers doing Urgent Care duties. We have placed a treatment tent behind the parking lot for patient overflow. In addition, we are cooperating with the Coastal Life Support District (CLSD), the Fire Department, and Health Department to make future plans for this emergency.
OUR STAFF AND STAFF FAMILY HEALTH: We are actively monitoring the health of our staff. We will use the same protocol regarding testing/treating our staff. Our staff are wearing personal protective equipment consistent with protocols provided by the CDC.
RCMS understands that Coronavirus presents a challenging and stressful time for all Mendonomans. We are monitoring changes on a daily, even hourly, basis. We want you to know that RCMS is here for you. The RCMS staff and board urge you to be kind, calm, and patient with each other.
Ara Chakrabarti
Chief Executive Officer
RCMS Dental Clinic Coronavirus Protocols March 16, 2020
Effective Immediately: In our continuing effort to be prepared for the COVID-19 Coronavirus, the RCMS Dental Clinic is accommodating emergency patients only. This determination will be done on a case by case basis in order to decide whether the dental facility is an appropriate setting to provide the necessary services needed. Please call our dental facility at 707-882-2189 before coming in.
Effective Immediately: In our continuing effort to be prepared for the COVID-19 Coronavirus, the RCMS Dental Clinic is accommodating emergency patients only. This determination will be done on a case by case basis in order to decide whether the dental facility is an appropriate setting to provide the necessary services needed. Please call our dental facility at 707-882-2189 before coming in.
Coronavirus Update March 15, 2020
PLEASE CALL BEFORE YOU COME, FOR ALL URGENT COMPLAINTS, IF POSSIBLE!
Before you come to RCMS for an urgent medical need, please call (707-884-4005). We may have you speak to a Triage Nurse or Provider before you come, to better prepare for your visit.
WHITE TRIAGE TENT
In our continuing effort to be prepared for COVID-19 (Coronavirus), RCMS has set up a white triage tent outside of the main entrance of the Gualala clinic. When you arrive at the Gualala Clinic, please first stop at this white tent. You will be briefly evaluated by a Triage Team. Depending on your medical condition, we may direct you to different entrances of the clinic, or into the tent, in an effort to keep all patients safe, and efficiently gather patient information.
COVID19 TESTING
RCMS is able to perform COVID19 testing on a case by case basis, guided by CDC/ Health Department criteria. This is a send out test which takes 72+ hours to get back. We currently have limited testing supplies, and therefore cannot test and screen everyone. We are NOT performing screening testing (i.e. testing of persons without symptoms). Please do not come to RCMS to get screened. The Federal Government has announced that front-line screening will soon be available to Americans. We will keep you posted if this service becomes available in our community.
GENERAL COVID19 QUESTIONS
If you have general questions about COVID19, visit www.cdc.gov
PLEASE CALL BEFORE YOU COME, FOR ALL URGENT COMPLAINTS, IF POSSIBLE!
Before you come to RCMS for an urgent medical need, please call (707-884-4005). We may have you speak to a Triage Nurse or Provider before you come, to better prepare for your visit.
WHITE TRIAGE TENT
In our continuing effort to be prepared for COVID-19 (Coronavirus), RCMS has set up a white triage tent outside of the main entrance of the Gualala clinic. When you arrive at the Gualala Clinic, please first stop at this white tent. You will be briefly evaluated by a Triage Team. Depending on your medical condition, we may direct you to different entrances of the clinic, or into the tent, in an effort to keep all patients safe, and efficiently gather patient information.
COVID19 TESTING
RCMS is able to perform COVID19 testing on a case by case basis, guided by CDC/ Health Department criteria. This is a send out test which takes 72+ hours to get back. We currently have limited testing supplies, and therefore cannot test and screen everyone. We are NOT performing screening testing (i.e. testing of persons without symptoms). Please do not come to RCMS to get screened. The Federal Government has announced that front-line screening will soon be available to Americans. We will keep you posted if this service becomes available in our community.
GENERAL COVID19 QUESTIONS
If you have general questions about COVID19, visit www.cdc.gov
Coronavirus Update March 10, 2020
RCMS is working collaboratively with the Mendocino County Department of Health, California Department of Health, and Centers for Disease Control (CDC) to prepare for Coronavirus (COVID19) in our community. There are currently no reported cases in our RCMS service area. We recommend that all patients regularly check the CDC website for the most up-to-date recommendations regarding preparing for and responding to the infection: www.cdc.gov
COVID-19 is a new virus to humans. Currently there is no vaccine and no known treatment. Because humans are not protected by immunization or past immunity, approximately 70% of people are expected to eventually be infected by this virus. 80% of infected individuals will have no or very minor cold symptoms. 20% of infected individuals will have more severe infections, requiring medical care or even hospitalization.
Coronavirus is spread by “droplets” -- normally from coughing. It also can possibly be spread through stool. It can survive on surfaces – possibly for several hours. The best way to reduce risk of exposure is to avoid close contact with feverish or coughing individuals; wiping down surfaces and commonly touched areas (phones, doorknobs, etc.) with antiseptic solutions regularly; washing hands for 20 seconds with soap and water or an alcohol based hand sanitizer; and avoiding touching eyes/nose/mouth/face with unwashed hands.
High-risk persons -- including older adults, and persons with diabetes, lung disease, heart disease and immunocompromising conditions – are currently advised to avoid contact with anyone with cough/cold symptoms; avoid public gatherings and crowds; and avoid unnecessary airplane flights.
In the near future, anticipate public gatherings may be postponed or cancelled to avoid risk of viral spread.
Prepare your home for the possibility that you or a family member may be out of work or school – if someone falls ill, or there are work or school closures. Have 2 to 4 week supplies of food, cleaning products, medications and toiletries in your home.
Recommendations for medical care:
RCMS is working collaboratively with the Mendocino County Department of Health, California Department of Health, and Centers for Disease Control (CDC) to prepare for Coronavirus (COVID19) in our community. There are currently no reported cases in our RCMS service area. We recommend that all patients regularly check the CDC website for the most up-to-date recommendations regarding preparing for and responding to the infection: www.cdc.gov
COVID-19 is a new virus to humans. Currently there is no vaccine and no known treatment. Because humans are not protected by immunization or past immunity, approximately 70% of people are expected to eventually be infected by this virus. 80% of infected individuals will have no or very minor cold symptoms. 20% of infected individuals will have more severe infections, requiring medical care or even hospitalization.
Coronavirus is spread by “droplets” -- normally from coughing. It also can possibly be spread through stool. It can survive on surfaces – possibly for several hours. The best way to reduce risk of exposure is to avoid close contact with feverish or coughing individuals; wiping down surfaces and commonly touched areas (phones, doorknobs, etc.) with antiseptic solutions regularly; washing hands for 20 seconds with soap and water or an alcohol based hand sanitizer; and avoiding touching eyes/nose/mouth/face with unwashed hands.
High-risk persons -- including older adults, and persons with diabetes, lung disease, heart disease and immunocompromising conditions – are currently advised to avoid contact with anyone with cough/cold symptoms; avoid public gatherings and crowds; and avoid unnecessary airplane flights.
In the near future, anticipate public gatherings may be postponed or cancelled to avoid risk of viral spread.
Prepare your home for the possibility that you or a family member may be out of work or school – if someone falls ill, or there are work or school closures. Have 2 to 4 week supplies of food, cleaning products, medications and toiletries in your home.
Recommendations for medical care:
- Have sufficient quantities of your prescription medications on hand. If you are running out, contact the clinic to request medication refills. Consider medication delivery or mail order services – in order to avoid unnecessary trips to the pharmacy.
- If you have cough/cold symptoms, please stay home from work and school and remain out of public spaces.
- If you have Coronavirus contacts/risk factors (recent travel to China, South Korea, Italy, Japan, or were on a Princess Cruise from San Francisco to Mexico on February 11 – 21) or have known contact with a patient with Coronavirus, please contact the Health Department Coronavirus Hotline at 707-234-6052 for guidance.
- If you feel ill (more than a common cold that you feel you can manage at home), including fever, shortness of breath, wheezing, chest pain, or any other symptoms of concern, PLEASE CALL THE CLINIC BEFORE YOU COME IN at 707-884-4005. A triage nurse or provider will speak to you and make a plan for your care. If you are extremely ill, we may advise you to call 911 and proceed to the hospital for appropriate testing and care. Otherwise, you will be provided a time to come in to the clinic. We will ask for your cell phone number and the color and model of your vehicle. Upon your arrival at RCMS, please call the front desk and advise them you have arrived in the parking lot. Stay in your car until you are invited into the clinic – when we have a room available for you. We will escort you in through the Urgent Care door.
- Testing for the coronavirus is now available as a SEND OUT test, which takes several days to get back, and is performed if patients meet specific clinical criteria – in collaboration with guidance from the Health Department. There is currently NO same day Coronavirus testing available.
- RCMS will continue to provide normal “primary care”, including physicals, blood pressure checks, lab draws, etc., during this time.
