Local hospital removes COVID-19 tent
Health system sees ‘light at the end of the tunnel’
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From staff reports
LEWISTOWN -- According to a March 10 press release from Geisinger-Lewistown Hospital, this Geisinger location removed the large white tent that was just outside the emergency room.
Erected in March 2020, the tent has been used in various capacities to manage the COVID-19 pandemic. It started primarily as a place for triage, testing and treatment of COVID patients. In January 2021, it became a mass vaccination site, providing more than 56,000 vaccines to Geisinger patients.
ìThe tent has been a significant symbol throughout the pandemic,î Kirk Thomas, chief administrative officer of Geisingerís western region said in a press release. ìItís served our community well and has been a beacon of light during many months of darkness. Through the fear and the unknown, the vaccine clinic has acted as a major part of the solution.
It's brought us far enough to see the light at the end of the tunnel.î
Most recently, the tent was used as an infusion clinic for monoclonal antibody treatments for patients who were high-risk and COVID-positive. Demand for these services has declined.
"During the pandemic, Geisinger has been at the forefront of preventing the spread of illness, offering innovative care and providing this lifesaving dose. Now, with declining COVID numbers, we're able to remove the tent," Michael Hegstrom, M.D., chief medical officer of Geisinger's western region said in a press release. "It's served its purpose, and one of the reasons we're at this place is because of everyone who received the vaccine."
Geisinger staff members, nurses and providers worked extra-long hours caring for patients and providing the vaccine in the tent. At the peak of vaccine administration, 800 patients visited the tent each day.
"Beyond the vaccine, the efforts of our frontline workers have brought us to this point. We are grateful for everyone who has stepped up over the past two years to save lives. Their time, dedication and hard work have been instrumental in the fight against COVID. They have been tremendous in this fight and allowed us to come out the other side stronger," Thomas said.
Even as COVID cases and hospitalizations are on the downswing, it is still imperative that the community takes appropriate precautions to stop the spread.
"A big reason we're able remove the tent is because of our friends, families and neighbors who got the vaccine. I can't stress enough the value of wearing a mask, washing your hands and getting the vaccine or your booster," Dr. Hegstrom said. "Stay safe and healthy by continuing to protect yourself and your loved ones with these measures."
The vaccine is available to anyone age 5 or older. Vaccinations are also available to those who are eligible for the third dose or booster shot. Patients can now receive the vaccine at any Geisinger Pharmacy location. To schedule a vaccine appointment, visit geisinger.org/coronavirus. Masks are still required in all Geisinger facilities.