How We’re Keeping You Safe During In-Person Visits

Published: Wednesday, May 27, 2020

Your Safety Comes First – Here Are The Steps We’re Taking.

Your health needs don’t stop – and neither does our commitment to you.

Whether you need an interventional procedure in one of our cardiac cath labs or in-person testing and lab work, we are taking every precaution to ensure your safety and well-being.

When you do come into one of Georgia Heart Institute locations, these are the steps we’re taking to keep you safe:

We follow strict decontamination guidelines

Our facilities – and staff members – have always utilized thorough decontamination protocols outlined by our healthcare system’s Infection Control and Prevention department.

This includes only using products certified to kill bacteria and viruses when cleaning and disinfecting all exam rooms, high-touch surfaces, and equipment, as well as increasing the frequency of decontamination.

We have also taken additional measures to ensure that all our processes align with CDC guidelines.

Our team members are leading by example.

All staff members are required to self-screen for COVID-19 symptoms. In the event that an employee experiences fever, cough, or difficulty breathing, they are to report to NGHS Employee Health for further evaluation and official clearance before returning to work.

Additionally, staff members are required to wear face masks at all times and may also wear gloves, an isolation gown and/or face shield in patient care areas.  

We are helping patients protect one another.

All patients and visitors are being pre-screened before entering our facilities. You are also asked to wear a face mask and will be provided one if needed.

Once inside, you will notice that we enforce social distancing in waiting rooms, while also staggering appointments to limit the number of people in our offices at one time.

When caring for patients suspected or confirmed to have COVID-19, additional precautions are put in place. This includes delaying all non-essential procedures until that patient has had 2 negative COVID-19 tests and/or 6 weeks have passed.

Additionally, if a patient is suspected or confirmed to have COVID-19 and receives urgent or emergent care, the exam room, and all equipment are decontaminated per CDC guidelines and will remain unused for at least 2 hours to ensure proper disinfection.

We are always ready to care for you.

In addition to the safety precautions we’re taking when providing in-person care, Georgia Heart Institute is also offering video visits. This convenient care option allows you to interact directly with your care team and receive the services you need to feel your best. To learn more about video visits or request an appointment, simply fill out the online form or call 770-534-2020.

If you have questions about your specific health care needs, reach out to your practice or provider, our team is always happy to help!