On Monday, March 9, active screening for the virus that causes COVID-19 begins for patients, visitors, and employees entering the hospital and Veterans Clinics in Monroe, Longview, and Texarkana. The effort is a precautionary measure that follows recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
There are currently no known cases of COVID-19 at Overton Brooks VA Medical Center.
“We take patient safety very seriously, which includes the Veteran’s family and friends who may be visiting the hospital,” said Richard Crockett, Medical Center Director. “Although there are no known cases here, we feel it’s important to be proactive,” added Crockett.
Patients will be asked three questions:
- Are you having flu-like symptoms, such as fever, cough, or shortness of breath?
- In the last 14 days, have you traveled to a high-risk area for transmission of COVID-19?
- Have you been in close contact with someone confirmed or is being evaluated for COVID-19?
Veterans should allow extra time for screening when arriving for appointments. More than 150 VA facilities nationwide are implementing these screening measures.
Veterans, if you have flu-like symptoms such as fever, cough, and shortness of breath, call us at 318-990-5000 OR 800-863-7441 Ext. 5000, before you visit the Shreveport VA or one of your VA Clinics. In addition to calling first, consider using virtual care options such as telehealth or My HealtheVet Secure Messaging. Visitors, if you do not feel well, please postpone your visit.
