KNOXVILLE, TN (SPECIAL TO WLAF) – Tennova Healthcare’s doctors, nurses and other medical professionals understand that the thought of having surgery for a nagging injury or lingering pain can make some patients feel uneasy. But, as many experts have said over the last few months, it is extremely important not to neglect medical needs during the pandemic.

Patients can feel confident seeking the medical care they need at any Tennova facility in East Tennessee. Numerous steps have been put in place to keep patients safe during their visits, including:

  • Screening all visitors for COVID-19 exposure and symptoms before they are allowed to enter.
  • Visitor restrictions reduce the number of people inside to enable social distancing and keep patients and employees safe.
  • Facemasks are worn by everyone inside the hospital—patients, employees and physicians.
  • Caregivers are using appropriate personal protective equipment and washing hands before and after caring for every patient.
  • Cleaning protocols have been enhanced with extra measures and increased frequency, including disinfection of frequently touched surfaces and all patient care areas.
  • Furniture in waiting areas arranged to support social distancing.
Rosemary Chickos, D.O, is a general surgeon with Tennova General Surgery – LaFollette, located on the campus of LaFollette Medical Center.

“Lingering injuries or pain can lead to long-term health issues if not addressed,” said Rosemary Chickos, D.O, a general surgeon with Tennova General Surgery – LaFollette, located on the campus of LaFollette Medical Center. “I have seen an increase in patients who are experiencing more significant health issues because they delayed care. We have precautions in place to treat all patients who need medical care. I strongly urge people to contact their physician if they have health concerns.”

Pre-surgery COVID-19 testing is required for patients undergoing procedures involving general anesthesia or aerosolizing procedures. Patients are asked to self-quarantine after receiving the test and before arriving at the hospital. Care for surgery patients is delivered in a non-COVID care zone in which all patients have tested negative for COVID and provided by a dedicated group of staff who only work in this area.

“Delaying surgery for any length of time can mean unnecessary pain and suffering—and sometimes lead to more complicated procedures and reduced quality of life,” Dr. Chickos said. “Remember, the sooner your surgery is done, the sooner your relief and recovery begin.”

Tennova Healthcare offers surgical services at Jefferson Memorial Hospital, LaFollette Medical Center, Newport Medical Center, North Knoxville Medical Center and Turkey Creek Medical Center. With more than 200 surgical specialists at multiple locations across the region, the health system is dedicated to offering quality inpatient and outpatient surgical care—close to home.

To schedule an appointment with a Tennova surgeon or another specialist, call 855-TENNOVA (836-6682) or visit TennovaMedicalGroup.com. For more information about the safety plan at LaFollette Medical Center, click here. (WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED – 03/10/2021-11AM)

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