Challenging circumstances bring out the best in health care workers and community

During this time of uncertainty, Virtua Health's care teams are working day and night to ensure the health and safety of the South Jersey community. Virtua has been collaborating with federal and local health authorities to implement outpatient testing, and is providing inpatient care for those with presumed and confirmed COVID-19 diagnoses.

“Virtua leadership is incredibly proud of the selfless actions and heroic work of its entire team, including doctors, nurses, technicians, environmental services professionals, food and nutrition teams, therapists, social workers, community outreach specialists, call center operators, and more,” said Dennis W. Pullin, FACHE, president and CEO of Virtua Health.

Virtua reminds the community that everyone can play a role in reducing the spread of the coronavirus. This includes staying home, social distancing, covering coughs and sneezes, and washing hands thoroughly and often. This also means providing family members who become sick with an isolated space within the home to recover.

South Jersey residents can also support their neighbors by donating to food banks and participating in blood drives.

In recent days, several area businesses have donated personal protective equipment to Virtua, which is in limited supply nationwide. In response to this generosity, Virtua established a direct email – COVIDhelp@virtua.org – to assist with triaging such donations. For safety, these items must be unopened/unused. Virtua also established a Coronavirus Emergency Fund for those who want to support Virtua’s work and workers through philanthropy.

“It is in extraordinary times like this that we are all reminded of our shared humanity,” said Pullin. “Together, we will find our way through this global crisis.”