Full Notification

The Rutherford County Emergency Operations Center (EOC) has developed unique medical strike teams to check in on patients suffering from COVID-19. It is the best medical practice for patients to isolate at home and treat with fluids, an anti-fever medication such as Tylenol, and rest. However, with several high risk populations, Rutherford County wants to provide special focus on their needs. Each Strike Team consists of one or two paramedics or EMT’s who will provide a follow up well check via phone or in person of COVID-19 patients that are under self-isolation protocols. They will also perform vital sign checks on these patients and work closely with Rutherford Regional Health System’s providers to utilize telemedicine services if needed. The EOC in conjunction with Rutherford Regional Medical Center, will stay in contact with these patients to monitor how they are progressing. If a patient become critical, EMS will transport them to Rutherford Regional for additional resources. Frequency of contact will depend on availability of medical resources and the total number of patients. EMS Director, Kerry Giles stated, “We are excited to launch this resource that is mirrored after our Community Paramedic program. Not only will the teams be monitoring the health of the patients, but we will also be working with community partners to access any food or medical needs for these patients which allows the individuals in the home to remain in quarantine. Keeping COVID-19 patients and other family members in quarantine limits additional exposure to citizens and further protects our community.” The Health Department is continuing to test qualified individuals for COVID-19 per CDC guidelines and are also operating a COVID-19 Medical Screening Hotline at (828) 289-1185 which operates 8AM – 5PM, 7 days per week. If you have any further questions you may contact the Public Information Officer at [email protected]. To receive daily local COVID alerts, please text your zip code to 888777.