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FRANKLIN

Should anyone become a patient at Southampton Memorial Hospital that is diagnosed with the novel coronavirus (COVID-19), the statements and billing for treatment will be put on hold. That’s according to Jenna Green, public relations and communications specialist with the Atlantic Group for Bon Secours Mercy Health.

Green announced in a statement on Thursday morning, “As part of our ongoing effort to help our patients and communities manage the impact of COVID-19, Bon Secours has suspended all COVID-19 -related patient statements and billing. This removes any financial barriers to accessing care and treatment, which is part of our ongoing commitment to care for all people in need, with high-quality care, regardless of their ability to pay. In addition, if a patient receives treatment related to COVID-19, no upfront payments will be required at the time of service.”

She said, “Bon Secours will bill insurance, but will suspend patient statements until we finalize details with insurance companies, lab partners, state and federal governments.”

Later in the evening, Green answered a follow-up question: What steps Bon Secours is taking at its facilities, namely SMH, in helping to reduce the spread of COVID-19?

She replied that Bon Secours is monitoring COVID-19 updates from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Virginia Department of Health and other local, state and national agencies.

“We have a COVID-19 Task Force that is working around-the-clock to enable an agile response to this pandemic,” added Green. “Our clinical leaders have implemented protocols that are consistent with CDC guidelines to ensure the quality and safety of the care we provide to our patients.”

She also confirmed a report from another news source — The Suffolk News-Herald — about a former Southampton County man who tested positive for the virus. At the time, he was at an assisted living facility in Northampton County, North Carolina.

“Bon Secours Southampton Memorial Hospital has cared for a patient who has tested positive for novel coronavirus COVID-19. We follow safety protocols each and every time we care for a patient,” said Green. “We follow guidance provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the state and local departments of health to minimize exposure to other patients and our associates. We have followed all CDC cleaning protocols and Southampton Memorial Hospital remains a safe place to work and to seek care.”

For further updates and information, she directed readers to www.BonSecours.com and its social media pages.