The East Jordan and Bellaire Family Health Centers continue to monitor and be proactive in response to the COVID-19 outbreak across our community. Though the spread of this virus will have a slightly slower transmission rate in rural areas, community members need to be diligent in social distancing and self-quarantining as there are additional barriers to care that will likely impact our regions ability to combat the disease. These include transportation limitations, older population, lack of access to providers and health care facilities.
Increases in the northern Michigan population “places a substantial strain on our communities as travelers seek supplies, such as groceries and toiletries, as well as potentially needing health care in the event they become sick. During this public health crisis, many rural communities may not be equipped with personnel, supplies or resources for a surge in population,” as stated in the Health Department of Northwest Michigan’s Public Health Advisory issued March 31, 2020.
If you choose to travel to your seasonal home or return home from travel, the Health Department of Northwest Michigan asks travelers to self-quarantine for 14 days upon arrival to your destination and obey the Governor’s “Stay at Home” order. Do not go out unless necessary to obtain essential supplies and services.
The East Jordan and Bellaire Family Health Centers are converting all routine office appointments to telephone visits. The healthcare provider will determine if a in-office visit would benefit a patient more and outweigh the risk exposure to Coronavirus. Your provider will be your best resource for determining your scheduling needs. If you feel that you are having a health emergency, please call 911 for the quickest assistance.
If you have questions regarding the Coronavirus, visit our website at ejfhc.org for up to date information along with additional services provided at both the Bellaire and East Jordan locations. Working together, we can limit the impact of the virus on our community.
Please help prevent the spread of coronavirus and other infectious diseases by practicing everyday prevention including frequent hand washing for at least 20 seconds, staying home when sick, covering coughs and sneezes with the crock of the elbow, and not touching the eyes, mouth or the nose.
East Jordan Family Health Center – (231) 536-2206
Bellaire Family Health Center – (231) 533-8649
