A Sawtooth Mountain Clinic (SMC) staff member has tested positive for COVID-19. The facility has worked closely with the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) to conduct case investigation and contact tracing. The results of this investigation show that any interactions with patients or other SMC staff are considered “low-risk exposures”. This means those who have accessed the clinic recently are not at heightened risk for contracting COVID-19, nor do they need to take any special action.
“The entire SMC staff has been diligent in following all MDH recommendations,” stated Sawtooth Mountain Clinic CEO Kate Surbaugh. “Staff are screened daily for symptoms, stay home when ill and wear the required personal protective equipment. All these precautions create an effective system to protect staff and others from infection. SMC is vigorously reviewing its existing protocols to ensure that we continue to provide a safe environment for patients. The safety of patients, staff and community are our highest priority.”
Given the robust precautions in place, SMC staff continues to encourage community members to seek needed health care. “We are here to meet the needs of the community, no matter what. We have a variety of tools at our disposal, including telehealth, to ensure that you are getting the care you need as safely as possible,” said Surbaugh.
As case counts increase both in our county and across Minnesota, SMC staff encourages all community members to continue to practice physical distancing, wear a mask, stay home if you are sick and wash or sanitize your hands regularly. If you feel ill, even mildly so, please do not hesitate to call Sawtooth Mountain Clinic nurses at 218-387-2330. We are here with you, together through life.
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