COVID-19 Reminders & Protocols

Albia, IA – Monroe County Hospital & Clinics (MCHC) remains committed to protecting the health, safety and well-being of health care personnel, patients, and communities served.

Currently, Monroe County is sitting with the highest positivity rate in the State of Iowa. The percent positive rate is the percentage of all COVID-19 tests performed in the county that are actually positive. The percent positive is a critical measure, as it gives an indication how widespread infection is in the area where the testing is occurring – and whether levels of testing are keeping up with level of disease transmission. While COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations are rising amongst not only the State, but the United States, MCHC is not experiencing an increase in patient admissions. MCHC’s highly qualified staff are well equipped and prepared with processes in place continuing to deliver high quality care to the community.

MCHC and Monroe County Public Health continue to work closely focusing on the needs of the community. Please follow communication provided from MCHC and Monroe County Public Health. Everyone’s safety matters.

As a reminder, the following protocols are in place at MCHC:

  • Masks are required at all times, regardless of vaccination status.
  • Masked visitors are welcome. All visitors must wear a mask for the entire duration of their visit, including while in a patient’s room. Visitors who refuse to wear a mask will not be allowed to enter or will be asked to leave the facility if they do not comply. If the visitor does not have a mask, one will be provided upon entry.
  • COVID-19 testing is available at Monroe County Hospital Medical Clinic. An appointment is required. Please call 641-932-7172 to schedule.
  • Screening stations are housed at all entrance points of MCHC and is required to enter. This is for the safety of our patients, providers, employees, and visitors.

As a reminder for the community, MCHC encourages everyone to follow the best practices from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention:

  • The COVID-19 vaccine is strongly encouraged
  • Please wear a face mask
  • Physical distance yourself from others
  • Stay home if feeling ill
  • Avoid close contact with people who are ill
  • Cover your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing
  • Thoroughly wash your hands with soap and water
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth
  • Disinfect surfaces and objects

MCHC is regulated by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services and is required to follow guidance provided by Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH).

For individuals who have symptoms of illness, particularly with fever and cough or shortness of breath, your provider can assess whether you need to be seen in the office or if you can recover at home. If you think you need healthcare, call first.

For up-to-date information on COVID-19, visit https://coronavirus.iowa.gov/ and follow the department on Facebook at @IowaDepartmentOfPublicHealth and on Twitter at @IAPublicHealth.