Patient Safety

As we begin the process of resuming non-emergency medical services like primary care, behavioral health, orthopedics, surgery, operating room services, radiology, lab, physical therapy, and occupational health, we wanted to take a moment to outline the steps we’re taking to ensure everyone’s health and safety.

While we’ve instituted some new guidelines in the wake of COVID-19, patient safety has always been our top priority, as evidenced by the consistently high scores we receive by state and national governing bodies.

WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN YOU ARRIVE

Following are the enhanced safety measures we’ve established:

Social distancing, mask-wearing, and hand washing protocols remain firmly in place.
All persons entering MCH will be screened for symptoms of COVID-19.
All MCH staff members will be screened daily for symptoms of COVID-19.
All patients requiring admission, symptomatic or not, will be tested for COVID-19.
Enhanced cleaning procedures are in effect in all areas of the Hospital.

“At MCH, the safety of our patients, staff and community will remain our highest priority and reopening will be a gradual and phased process.”

Cynthia K. McGuire, FACHE
President & CEO

We have begun seeing patients with time-sensitive health-care needs and are scheduling appointments for patients who delayed or postponed care during the pandemic. Decisions about which procedures and office visits to undertake will be made by medical staff, taking into account each patient’s particular needs.

“We will care for COVID-19 patients or suspected COVID-19 patients in designated areas of our hospital and have taken extra steps to assure we can safely provide you the healthcare services you need,” said Cynthia K. McGuire, FACHE, President and CEO. “At MCH, the safety of our patients, staff and community will remain our highest priority and reopening will be a gradual and phased process.”

According to Chief Medical Officer Dr. Michael Lindberg, quality and safety will be the top priorities as medical services are gradually restored.

“In addition to limiting the number of procedures and appointments, we will continue with masking and distancing at all of our facilities,” said Dr. Lindberg. “We will follow the new COVID-19 testing guidance and resources from the New Hampshire Department of Health. The guidelines are designed to expand surveillance of COVID-19 at hospitals and among patients about to undergo procedures. At least initially, we will focus on lower risk operative procedures.”

While the return to normal operations will occur in gradual phases, we want to assure the community that your Hospital is safe and here for you every step of the way.

Patient and Visitor Information

MCH Visitation Policy

Birthing Suite

One designated, healthy partner/spouse/birthing coach

allowed during labor and delivery

Emergency Department

One healthy visitor can accompany a

patient to the Emergency Department

In-Patients on Comfort Measures

One healthy visitor at a time allowed, up to two designated visitors for entire stay

Outpatient visits

One healthy adult may accompany a minor
One healthy adult may escort a patient needing assistance

MCH Entrance Restrictions

Medical Arts Building Entrance adjacent to MCH Main Entrance
Emergency Department Entrance
Oncology and Infusion Therapy Center Entrance

In addition to limiting our entrances, we are screening everyone who comes into the hospital for fever, cough, and travel. This includes employees, patients and visitors.

Emergency Department

Our Emergency Department is always OPEN.

To help ensure the safety of all of our patients and staff during the pandemic we ask: Please do not come directly to the Emergency Department unless you are in a health emergency.

If you suspect COVID-19, want a test, or have questions; please contact your primary care physician or call the state information line (211).

For non-urgent conditions, it is also in your best interest as a patient to first contact your primary care physician whenever possible before coming to the Emergency Department.

Lab and Radiology

To schedule, call Central Registration (603) 924-4621

No walk-in appointments.

Mask Protocol

Following the guidance of the CDC and the New Hampshire Department of Health & Human Services latest health alert recommendations, Monadnock Community Hospital recommends that all staff and patients wear a mask or facial covering in public settings when social distancing is difficult. Patients arriving for an appointment at the main hospital campus or at a satellite practice should wear a mask or a facial covering. This policy includes appointments at the lab, radiology, surgery or a provider’s office. If patients arrive without a mask, they will be given a mask upon entry to wear for their entire visit.