SPOKANE, Wash. — The elderly are among the populations who are most at risk of developing complications from the 2019 novel coronavirus (COVID-19). Many military veterans fall into this category.
KREM reached out to the Mann-Grandstaff Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Spokane for information on how they are testing for COVID-19 and protections in place for members of this vulnerable population.
Bret Bowers, a spokesperson for the VA, said Mann-Grandstaff is offering "comprehensive COVID-19 screening and treatment services," along with following the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and Washington State Department of Health guidelines for testing and reporting.
The medical center can take samples on site and sending them to Quest Laboratories for processing, Bowers said. He added that veterans who are experiencing symptoms should call their health care provider for assessment before going into a clinic.
This testing is available for veterans and not the general public.
"COVID-19 testing is completed in accordance with CDC protocols. Please refer to this CDC link for testing guidelines. Veterans with symptoms are asked to call the VAMC before arriving for screening at 509-434-7000. Additional COVID-19 information can be obtained from the Spokane Regional Health District at (509) 324-1409 / (800) 525-0127 #," Bowers wrote in a statement to KREM.
Bowers added that the medical center is equipped with essential items and supplies to handle an influx of coronavirus cases.
To minimize the risk for employees and veterans, everyone who enters the medical center campus will be pre-screened for COVID-19 symptoms. Bowers said this may lengthen entry times, so patients are advised to allow for this when arriving from their appointments.
Per CDC guidance and VA protocols, individuals who are at risk for COVID-19 infection are immediately isolated to prevent potential spread to others. Access points have also been restricted to the main entrance of the hospital building and outpatient clinics.
The medical center is operating from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Bowers said the most up-to-date operation changes are available on the VA website.
Washington Gov. Jay Inslee also signed an emergency proclamation this week to temporarily shut down bars and restaurants and further limit the size of gatherings during the coronavirus outbreak.
Restaurants are allowed to have take-out and delivery services, but no in-person dining.