Coronavirus (COVID-19)

Updates for patients, visitors and the public

The Saint John’s Cancer Institute at Providence Saint John’s Health Center is working with experts to address the coronavirus pandemic, treat patients, protect visitors and staff, and provide up-to-date information to our community.

So much has changed in recent months. For us, this means a new landscape in how we deliver care, but with the same commitment to your health that we’ve always had. Learn about the steps we’re taking to protect your health and ours.

Here are some of the steps we’re taking to protect your health and ours when you’re in our care.

  • SCREENING. We conduct routine coronavirus symptom screening on patients, visitors and employees.
  • MASKING. Our facilities have adopted policies that align with recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
  • DISTANCING. We’re taking steps to ensure appropriate distance between you and other patients, visitors and staff.
  • SANITIZING. Our staff are regularly cleaning waiting areas and exam rooms in between visits, and hand sanitizer stations are located throughout our facilities.
  • SEPARATING. COVID-19 patients, as well as those caring for them, are safely isolated from the rest of the population.
  • VISITORS. We are limiting people coming into our facilities to those deemed essential. This helps maintain appropriate physical distancing and reduces spread of germs.
  • VIRTUAL VISITS. For on-demand and routine medical care, we offer virtual visits – a reliable way to see your provider from the comfort your own home.

We’ve always been a leader in safety. These are just some of the additional protocols we’ve put in place to help ensure your safety when you’re with us for care.

Visit the Providence Hub for Coronavirus Resources

About COVID-19

About COVID-19

COVID-19 is believed to spread mainly from person-to-person and between people in close contact with one another. The virus is thought to spread through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Symptoms include fever, cough and difficulty breathing. A health care provider can give you instructions for seeking care, including options for testing, while minimizing the risk of exposing others.

Stay Informed on covid19
Symptoms

Symptoms

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, illnesses have ranged from mild symptoms to severe illness and death for confirmed coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) cases.

The following symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure:

  • Fever
  • Cough
  • Shortness of breath

*Please note, this list is not all inclusive. Consult your medical provider for any other symptoms that are severe or concerning.

symptoms to monitor
Prevention

Prevention

You can protect yourself from COVID-19 infection the same ways you protect against the common cold or seasonal flu.

  • Wash your hands frequently for at least 20 seconds.
    • Before eating
    • When your hands are visibly soiled
    • After you have used the bathroom, been in public or blown your nose, coughed or sneezed
  • Use hand sanitizer that contains at least 60 percent alcohol, if soap and water aren’t available.
  • Cover your cough and sneeze with a tissue, and throw your used tissues in the trash.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
  • Stay home when you are sick.
  • Wear a face mask, only if you are sick or are caring for someone who is sick.
  • Put some distance between yourself and others, especially if:
    • Someone near you is sick
    • You are at a higher risk of serious illness
    • COVID-19 is spreading in your communities
  • Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.

If You Feel Sick

If You Feel Sick

There are several things you should do if you are sick or think you may have been exposed to COVID-19, and have a fever or respiratory illness (cough or shortness of breath):

  • Stay home if you are sick or believe you have been exposed to the virus, even if you aren’t showing any symptoms.
  • Avoid public areas and transportation.
  • Call your health care provider or schedule a Virtual Visit first and before coming into the doctor’s office or emergency department.
  • Avoid coming to the emergency department, unless you have a health emergency and/or you have been advised by your health care provider to do so. This helps prevent the risk of spreading COVID-19 infection.
  • Separate yourself from other people and animals as much as possible, while you are sick.
  • Wear a face mask, if you are sick.
  • Monitor yourself for fever, coughing and shortness of breath.
  • Take the same precautions you would if you had the common cold or flu (e.g., wash your hands frequently).

Content provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). For more guidance, please visit the CDC website.

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