Direct Line from Steve Edwards: 4/23/21

April 23, 2021

COVID-19 update

We are sad to share that, as our number of COVID-19 patients has increased (currently 26), we are preparing to reopen the West Tower COVID-19 ICU today. We are seeing an influx of patients who are coming in later and with advanced symptoms, which leads to worse outcomes.

This reminds that, although we are ready to be done with COVID-19, it is fluid and not yet done with us. I know I stress it frequently, but vaccinations are so very important right now. We have given more than 88,000 total doses of vaccine at CoxHealth, but that is not enough. The vast majority of future hospitalizations for COVID could be prevented with vaccinations. Please continue to encourage your friends and loved ones to take this step to protect themselves.

Volunteers recognition

Earlier this week, we honored our CoxHealth Volunteers with a drive-thru recognition lunch. While staying safely in their cars, they received a boxed lunch and a small gift, and we got the chance to say hi. We really miss these special individuals and can’t wait until they’re back on campus with us when it’s safe.

Medical Assistant graduation

Nearly 30 new Medical Assistants graduated last week from the collaborative training program we have with OTC. This program allows students to train in around 16 weeks and quickly be serving patients in our clinics – and all of them took jobs with us. We appreciate the partnership with OTC in this effort, which is helping increase our local health care workforce.

Voice of the Patient

From a Facebook message: “I must send a message today. After a year of chemo, I already knew the nurses at Hulston were great, but today proved it even more. Today's chemo did not go well and I had a reaction. While I know that any of the nurses would have also done this, today I was tended to by Sherry, Michelle and Annie. They quickly jumped in and took control of a pretty scary situation for me, and I am so impressed! While I thank all of the nurses every day, today I want to give a special thanks to my awesome Hulston angels! Thank you ladies!”

Vaccine Voices

From a CoxHealth employee: “The reason why I chose to be vaccinated with the COVID vaccine was; for the love of family; the hope of a better future for everyone I may come in contact with; and for the simple peace of mind knowing that those I love and care about can live to see another day.​”

Thank you for all you do,

Steve