Dr. Jalal Joudeh, Chief of Staff for DeQuincy Memorial Hospital and DeQuincy Medical Clinic Head Physician informed DeQuincy News on Tuesday, April 7 at press time that almost 100 test kits for Corona Virus (COVID-19) had been administered in DeQuincy with most of the results coming back negative. Only 17 patients have tested positive, with 99% of them doing well at home. They are are being monitored on a regular basis by phone. There have been no deaths to date per Dr. Joudeh’s knowledge.
Dr. Joudeh said that this is “generally good news” with the number of cases starting to rise everwhere else, we are getting very close to turning the curve.
He encourages people to not rush to the Emergency Room because they do not want to flood the hospital. Patients may call their personal care physician if they have concerns or questions. They are limiting patients to those that are absolutely necessary and screening before allowing them to enter the clinic; there is very limited access to inside to the clinic. Patients who have a fever or upper respiratory symptoms are required to call their personal care physician.
He said they are using telehealth and presently have enough protective gear for their employees.
Dr. Joudeh encourages everyone to understand the severity of this crisis and stay home and isolate to guard against infection. Testing for COVID-19 is by “doctor order” only and they are collaborating with DeQuincy Memorial Hospital. Additionally, they are strictly following guideline recommendations set forth by Center For Disease Control (CDC) as well as from Louisiana Department of Health (LDH).
Joudeh said, “Please for everyone’s safety, stay at home, practice social distancing as set by the CDC, Federal and state official guidelines. Try limiting going to the grocery store, eating out, large gatherings, etc. Practice safe hand washing and using mask as needed. Isolate and call your primary physician or the hospital if you need help.”
Dr. Joudeh said that himself, Dr. Chadha, Dr. Jacobs, and DeQuincy Memorial Hospital are working together during this pandemic to assure the highest possible quality of health care delivery for the residents of DeQuincy and surrounding areas.
Everyone be safe and God bless
