Aiken Regional Medical Centers is Open for Medical Emergencies

Wednesday, April 15, 2020
Aiken Regional Medical Centers is Open for Medical Emergencies

Aiken Regional Medical Centers and Aiken Physicians Alliance want to remind the community that the Emergency Department is open for medical emergencies, including support for heart and brain procedures related to heart attack, stroke and more.

At this time, when home isolation is encouraged, we want to remind you that this is not the same as medical isolation. If an individual is experiencing symptoms that could possibly be an indicator of a medical emergency, such as chest pain, difficulty breathing, trouble lifting arms, and weakness, please visit the nearest Emergency Department. Aiken Regional’s Emergency Department is prepared and available to safely evaluate patients 24/7.

Unfortunately, many hospitals have started to see patients that have waited too long to come to the Emergency Department for a life-threatening condition, due to an understandable fear of being exposed to COVID-19. However, prolonged medical isolation for concerning symptoms may have detrimental effects on health and it is encouraged that individuals seek immediate medical care in these situations. Aiken Regional has implemented processes for protecting patients during medical emergencies and these procedures are in place at our facility.

“We appreciate all for continuing to turn to us for guidance and for allowing our Emergency Department to continue to serve the emergent needs of our community,” said Jim O’Loughlin, Chief Executive Officer at Aiken Regional Medical Centers. “We will work to accommodate all urgent and emergent requests on a clinical priority basis and will resume elective scheduling when appropriate.”

The COVID-19 pandemic has created an uncertain time among our community and in our healthcare system. It has led to extreme yet critical measures in our community, such as social distancing and shelter-in-place, in the hopes of keeping as many people safe and healthy as possible.

Learn the signs and symptoms of a possible Stroke or Heart Attack.

If an individual is experiencing mild respiratory symptoms or flu-like illness, it is best to stay home and manage symptoms in consultation with a primary care provider. This helps protect the individual, family and patients in the Emergency Department. However, should symptoms worsen, or an injury occurs, our Emergency Department is here for you. 

Aiken Regional is working closely with SCDHEC, Aiken County Health Department, and the Centers for Disease Control to evaluate and treat patients and follow appropriate protocols. As more information becomes available, it will be communicated. 

We encourage the public to practice flu precautions by thoroughly washing your hands, covering your cough and sneeze, and avoiding touching your eyes, nose and mouth to prevent the spread of disease.

Learn more about the coronavirus →