Creighton University
“During this time of great uncertainty, with the global spread of the coronavirus, Creighton’s Online Ministries site is a beacon of hope and a bright light, providing spiritual comfort and peace on a global scale.”
-Rev. Daniel S. Hendrickson, Sj, PhD
Creighton University President
Valleywise Health
Current COVID-19 Cases
- Confirmed Positive: 7 (VHMC), 1 (Behavioral Health)
- Persons Under Investigation (PUI): 6 (VHMC)
- Behavioral Health Screenings: 23
Refugee Outreach
Valleywise Health is helping refugee communities across the country stay informed about the coronavirus through educational videos in 10 languages - Arabic, Burmese, English, French, Karen, Kirundi, Maay Maay, Somali, Spanish, and Swahili.
The Valleywise Health Pediatric Refugee Clinic produced the videos with their Cultural Health Navigators. These employees are trusted members of the local refugee communities and function as liaisons between Valleywise Health and their patients.
“Our refugee populations are among our most vulnerable,” explained Dr. Michael Do, lead clinic pediatrician. “Many of them have language barriers and limited exposure to the U.S. health care system. We felt it was important to get the correct message to our families in a way that would be easily understandable and culturally sensitive.”
You can view the 10 videos here.
Behavioral Health Update
On Wednesday, April 1, five additional private rooms for screening new admissions were deployed at Valleywise Behavioral Health Center – Phoenix, bringing the total number of testing sites at Behavioral Health Centers to three (including Maryvale and Mesa). The new screening unit allowed Valleywise Health to admit 13 total Behavioral Health patients yesterday, with only 21 pending referrals. Any new admission will automatically be tested for COVID-19 and placed in a private room (isolated from other patients) until the test results come back from our lab. Behavioral Health patients are particularly vulnerable so reducing risk of infection in these areas is critical.
Virtual Court Hearings
Effective Monday, April 6, mental health court hearings will take place over the phone. For the last two weeks, witnesses were appearing by phone but court hearings were still being held in all of our facilities. The stricter guidelines will reduce the number of visitors coming to Behavioral Health courtrooms.
Best Practices for Employee Health
Many employees and staff are being proactive about their health and visiting Employee Health and Wellness. Due to the increased number of people visiting the office, please be mindful of social distancing guidelines and refrain from bringing guests into the lobby. Please ask your family and friends to wait outside and avoid bringing co-workers with you. Your cooperation is appreciated.
Telehealth Visits
Valleywise Health providers have completed more than 2,100 virtual visits in the last week. About 70% of the visits are done over the phone, and the remaining 30% are video encounters.
Foundation Donations
Valleywise Health would like to recognize the Gateway Community College Radiology and Cardiopulmonary programs for their in-kind donations of PPE, including much needed gloves, gowns, wipes, and hand sanitizer. The generosity gives hope the staff and students can get back in the classroom soon.
Food Donations Video
Local businesses and members of the community continue to rally around the Valleywise Health team. This video shows one of many food donations that have been provided to staff on the front lines these last couple weeks.
Pop-Up Market
The Pop-Up Market at the Valleywise Health Medical Center cafeteria is now open. To help ease some of the stress of grocery shopping, essential supplies such as bread, eggs, milk and canned food items are for sale.
Work from Home
More than 500 Valleywise employees are now working remotely, either part time or full-time. Valleywise IT partners deserve a big thank you for their tireless effort to make this happen. Anyone experiencing technical issues should call the Service Help Desk at x48888.
HR Update
Several employees have been asked by childcare providers for a letter of proof as well as identification to take advantage of certain resources. Valleywise has drafted a letter of proof to help its employees meet this request. This document can be printed as needed.
St. Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center
Incident Command Center
St. Joseph’s Incident Command Center continues to monitor all aspects of the pandemic while working to prevent and plan for the continued spread of COVID-19. The Command Center team meets throughout the day to resolve any challenges, implement new CDC guidelines, innovate ideas, ensure resources, and plan and prepare for the changing dynamics of the pandemic. The Command Center is open 24/7. Nearly 40 leaders, representing several key areas, are on the team.
Take Stock of Cleaners
PDI cleansing wipes in containers with purple tops are needed for clinical areas. Please contact Central Supply at 602-406-3180 to swap out PDI wipes with Clorox Wipes, which can be used to clean non-clinical areas.
On-site EAP Counseling Service
Until further notice, all on-site EAP counseling appointments will be held online via a secure video call. To make an appointment, visit supportlinc.com/dignityhealth.
Heroes and Helpers
The Arizona Cardinals recently produced a video thanking community heroes and helpers. It contains footage of St. Joseph’s and its employees.