On this episode of Housecall, host Dr. David Doman welcomes guest Nathan Barbo, Vice President of Operations for MedStar Montgomery Medical Center. Founded about 100 years ago, originally called Montgomery Hospital, the named was changed 12 years ago when they joined MedStar. Amongst all the Covid-19 challenges MedStar was noticing people Medically Distancing. Meaning people weren’t going to the doctors or hospital in fear of contracting coronavirus. MedStar answered this with having advanced cleanings, spaced out appointments, and shields put in place in order to keep all the patients safe during their regular medical care. Another safety measure MedStar enacted was to communicate with their whole team as promptly and efficiently as possible which is the best way to be safe.
At one point the 125 bed hospital had over 60 positive Covid patients. Different waves continue to hit this and many more hospitals directly with little relief for healthcare workers. The longterm occurrence of the coronavirus seems to be the biggest challenge for front line healthcare workers. Nathan says these workers are their most valuable assets, so MedStar has had no layoffs, provided advance paid time off, and an employee assistance fund for $3 million that was started for workers and their families. Transportation was also provided to employees that had complications with public transportation or their vehicle. Hotels are provided for Covid positive workers too.
One thing that definitely helps recharge MedStar’s Healthcare staff is a clap line of 100 associates, a newly released Covid patient, and their family to rejuvenate healthcare workers!!! For more information visit MedStarMontgomery.org
MedStar Montgomery Medical Center
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