Sokaogon Chippewa Community News
SCC Health Clinic Keeps Community Safe From COVID-19
Posted on: June 25, 2020
By Richard D. Ackley, Jr.
The SCC Health Clinic is diligently testing the community for COVID-19 on a daily basis. According to Jamie Zarda, SCC Health Director, “We are hoping that every Tribal Member will come in and get tested.”
Safety is a main concern for Jamie and the SCC Health Clinic staff. “We want to ensure the safety and well-being of our community and Tribal Members, as well as anyone who would ask to be tested.”
Jamie has established an incentive, sharing, “We are giving away a care package to every community member that comes in and gets tested.”
She also shared that the Clinic has expanded its staff during this time to ensure it can meet the needs of the community. Drive-thru testing is taking place, adding a safe and convenient option for people.
“Since beginning the COVID-19 testing on April 20th at the Clinic, we have completed 351 tests and so far we are COVID-19 free!”
Jamie noted that things are operating a little differently at the Clinic these days. “When the pandemic started, we changed many of our processes to keep the community safe. We take everyone’s temperature as they arrive and give everyone a mask. We are limiting access to the building and maintaining social distancing to keep the community healthy. We are also limiting services to emergency services, and have implemented Telehealth, which may be done over the phone or with video,” she explained.
Jamie is confident that Telehealth gives patients the flexibility and a sense of ease to everyone who may be concerned about leaving their home during these uncertain times. In July, the Clinic will be opening one Saturday a month from 8:00 am to Noon for walk-in patients.
If you have any questions about COVID-19 testing or the Clinic’s medical services, please call 715-478-5180.
Please Note – the Clinic will be closed on Friday, July 3rd, for the holiday weekend.