SV Hospital’s latest COVID-19 Update

Testing procedures are more efficient and bed capacity has been doubled at Sonoma Valley Hospital. Through April 6, the hospital reported 105 people have been tested with 57 using the drive-through testing option for less severe symptoms, according to a report by Chief Medical Officer Sabrina Kidd, MD, and CEO Kelly Mather.

Mather said that SVH, like all Bay Area hospitals, has identified potential increased capacity as much as possible, has prepared for high Emergency Department demand, and is addressing concerns about staffing and supplies.

The hospital opened a COVID-19 hotline and drive-through testing for patients with symptoms. Patients must call the RN screening hotline before scheduling testing. (Call 707.935.5440. It’s open 8 am to 8 pm, seven days a week).

As of Monday, April 6, the hospital reported that 105 people have been tested with 57 using the drive-through testing option for less severe symptoms. Primary Care Physicians can also send orders and their patients will get an immediate appointment for testing. Testing availability and turnaround time has improved greatly and this service will continue as long as supplies are available.

In preparation for a potential large influx of inpatients, the hospital has doubled inpatient bed capacity to 48 (the hospital is currently licensed for 24 inpatients.)  It also has the option of adding another 11 beds in the Surgery Department, if needed. This higher capacity is ten times the current inpatient census and includes 6 ICU beds and 6 ventilators. So for those concerned with a possible hospital bed shortage, our hospital is here for you and currently has capacity.

High Emergency Department demand is also a concern. The hospital will open a triage tent near the main entrance of the hospital which will then separate Emergency patients, with those that are stable and ambulatory being seen separately in the old Emergency Department. This plan will double ER capacity, if needed. It also includes a quick registration process and access to telehealth Emergency physicians to supplement physician staffing.

The hospital continues to purchase and receive needed Personal Protective Equipment, such as masks, gowns, face shields and gloves. It also has been receiving donated supplies from local businesses and community members, for which we are grateful!

I would remind you that the hospital has created a COVID-19 information resource for the community on the SVH website which continues to be updated as new information becomes available. It can be accessed here.

Dr. Kidd noted many physicians in the Valley are now using telehealth in some form to continue to see patients while their offices are closed for routine visits. She suggests that you check with your personal physician to see what is offered.