Fetter Health Care Network is a Federally Qualified Health Center, a community-based health care provider that receives funding from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) Health Center Program to provide access to primary care, pediatrics, OB-GYN, dental and behavioral health services in underserved areas. Fetter’s team of doctors, nurses, laboratory specialists, counselors, pharmacists and more are expertly trained and ready to serve patients in the midst of this crisis.
Important note: Every person who comes into a Fetter health center is screened for COVID-19 risk factors as an extra precaution and, if needed, set up for a virtual triage appointment with MUSC or Roper’s COVID-19 testing system. The safety of patients, staff and the surrounding community is Fetter’s top priority.
In the midst of the COVID-19 outbreak, Fetter providers are seeing many cancellations as patients opt to stay home. “Your health is the most important thing,” says Fetter CEO Aretha Jones. “This is especially important for at-risk patients like those with cancer, diabetes, heart disease and more.”
Ms. Jones adds, “Another thing we’re seeing is patients canceling appointments when they’re in need of a medication refill. This can be detrimental to the health of patients with serious medical conditions, so we are exploring every option to ensure we can continue to provide health care services for the patients in our communities.” Before canceling an appointment, patients should call their primary care providers to ensure that they are following proper procedures to remain in good health.
“As of last week, Fetter is now offering telehealth medical visits to our existing patients as an option for those who, out of concern for their health, are not able to come into the office to be seen. Each of our three pharmacies are remaining open and we will continue to have medical staff onsite at each Fetter location to ensure those who come in are able to receive proper medical treatment,” says Jones.
Fetter Health Care Network is also continuing to offer its behavioral health services, which can help tremendously in this time of crisis. As people throughout the world, nation and Lowcountry are trying their best to prevent the spread of the Coronavirus (COVID-19), most are practicing social distancing and many are staying home altogether. As a result of social isolation, many people experience higher levels of anxiety and those patients with behavioral health conditions may be more likely to notice an increase in their symptoms.
“We want our community members to know that our behavioral health care providers are here for them in this troubling time,” says CEO Aretha Jones. “While our nation’s main concern right now is the Coronavirus, we also prioritize the mental health of our patients and community members throughout the Lowcountry. Our team is here and available to offer holistic care for all in need.” Those who are experiencing stress and anxiety are encouraged to seek professional help.
Fetter is asking patients who are experiencing Coronavirus symptoms to remain at home and call (843) 722-4112 to receive further information on screening and testing. To schedule a behavioral health or medical appointment that is unrelated to COVID-19, patients can contact Fetter via the MyFetterHome patient portal, through FetterHealthCare.org.