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.

Following are the enhanced safety measures we’ve established:

• Social distancing, mask-wearing, and handwashing 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.