NEENAH (NBC 26) -- ThedaCare announced Wednesday its hospital beds are near capacity for inpatient and COVID-19 patients.
The heathcare organization said this situation related to COVID-19 patients who need inpatient care is not impacting ThedaCare's ability to care for patients with other needs. Those who have emergency situations, like a heart attack or stroke, are still urged to get care.
Those with planned, preventative care appointments are asked to continue those appointments at ThedaCare's outpatient clinics and through telehealth options.
ThedaCare also expressed concerns about staffing in a Wednesday news release. Over the past week, ThedaCare says up to 250 team members have been absent each day due to illness, exposure or quarantining, for themselves or their families.
ThedaCare says it's possible that patients who require hospitalization may be transferred to other hospitals within ThedaCare, or to systems outside of the region. This may include the temporary 530-bed alternative care facility on the State Fairgrounds in West Allis. According to ThedaCare, patients who meet a specific criteria from the state could be transferred to the alternate care facility.
That being said, the public is still urged to get necessary care.
“We do not want people to delay care over fears of the virus or capacity concerns," said Dr. Imran A. Andrabi, ThedaCare President and CEO.
ThedaCare says it's implemented safeguards at its facilities, including screening, required masking and enhanced visitor restrictions.
"Further, every effort is being made to continue isolating COVID-19 cases in our facilities, and we are encouraging virtual visits, when appropriate," ThedaCare says in a news release.
Community members are encouraged to visit thedacareCOVID19.org for online resources, including a symptom checker.
