SGMC Health Adjusts Facility Schedules Due to Hurricane Helene

With the impending Hurricane Helene, SGMC Health, its campuses and affiliates are adjusting hours of operation for Thursday, Sept. 26, and Friday, Sept. 27.

Thursday, scheduled outpatient surgeries, procedures and tests will be performed until 3pm. SGMC Health clinics will close at 2pm and Urgent Care will close at 5pm.

On Friday, all non emergent surgeries and procedures are being rescheduled. Additionally, SGMC Health's clinics and outpatient services will also be closed.

SGMC Health's emergency departments at its Main, Smith Northview, Lanier, and Berrien campuses will remain open. Inpatient care will continue at these facilities and the Langdale Hospice House and Lakeland Villa.

Our teams remain dedicated to serve all those who call on us for care.

In times of severe weather, like hurricanes, SGMC Health physicians and team members work tirelessly to provide life-saving care to those in critical need. To ensure we can continue doing so effectively, we are asking the community for your cooperation.

Please review the following tips to help prevent medical emergencies:

Medical Devices: Patients who are dependent on medical devices that require electricity, such as oxygen, should make plans to ensure their safety. Ensure you have battery backup or access to a safe location with a reliable power source, such as a shelter site.

Prescriptions: Ensure you have a 7-10 day supply of necessary prescriptions. If you have refrigerated medications, ensure you have a way to keep them cool should you lose power.

Dialysis Patients: Dialysis patients should confirm dialysis appointments and transportation in advance. Patients are encouraged to stock up on medical supplies and medications for at least 72 hours. If necessary, stay connected with your provider for updates on alternative treatment locations.

Please keep the following in mind:

Only Use 911 for Emergencies Our first responders need to stay available for life-threatening situations. If you are experiencing a true medical emergency-such as severe injury, chest pain, difficulty breathing, or loss of consciousness-call 911.

Hospitals are not Shelters: During a hurricane, hospitals must prioritize caring for patients with emergent medical needs and are not equipped to serve as shelters. If you are seeking shelter, please follow local government instructions and head to designated hurricane shelters, which are prepared to accommodate evacuees safely.

Thank you for your cooperation and understanding as we work to keep everyone safe during this challenging time. SGMC Health is communicating with area Emergency Management Agencies and will open its Incident Command Center to monitor and direct activities related to Hurricane Helene.

For more preparedness tips, visit https://www.ready.gov/hurricanes

Public link

Please use the above public link if you want to share this noodl on another website.