Posted Monday, March 23, 2020

Fort Hall- The Indian Health Service remains committed to coordinating a comprehensive public health response. CDC guidance continues to be the benchmark reference for our healthcare providers, facilities, and communities. In the past few days, President Trump, Vice President Pence, and members of the Coronavirus Task Force have announced a series of sweeping new recommendations and regulatory changes to prevent further spread of COVID-19, and to conserve precious medical resources.

Consistent with updated Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidance, American Dental Association (ADA) and American Chemical Society (ACS) recommendations, many Indian Health Service facilities have already implemented procedures to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and to preserve resources. The Not-Tsoo Gah-nee Indian Health Center will do the following starting today,March 23, 2020:

1. Maximize the use of telephone visits and telemedicine to minimize potential exposure to most higher risk chronic disease or elderly patients

2. Postpone elective appointments

3. Limit dental and optometry scope 
of service to emergency procedures only

4. Pharmacy will provide early refills, up to 60 days’ supply of chronic medications (controlled substances will be limited to 30 days’ supply) and maximize the use of mail order and other methods for obtaining refills

5. One entry point for patients, visitors and staff to screen for COVID-19 symptoms

These new steps will help us protect our employees and their families and will protect our ability to meet our mission.

Thank you