Virtual ICU Model Plays Key Role in AHN Pandemic Response Planning

Partnership with Mercy Virtual Increases ICU Capacity at Four Network Hospitals

PITTSBURGH (Apr. 30, 2020) – Increasing critical care capacity has been a central priority of hospitals and health systems that are responding to or preparing for possible surges of patients experiencing the worst effects of COVID-19. In both Pittsburgh and Erie, Allegheny Health Network (AHN) is taking advantage of an innovative critical care telehealth solution developed by St. Louis-based Mercy Virtual to meet this pressing need.

Following progressive implementation over the last year of Mercy Virtual’s ‘vICU’ capabilities at AHN’s Jefferson, Allegheny Valley and Canonsburg hospitals, the Network last week also launched the program at Saint Vincent Hospital. The partnership has expanded AHN’s ICU capacity by more than 60 beds overall, with the potential to increase capacity by 50 additional beds if needed.

A subsidiary of the St. Louis-based health system Mercy, Mercy Virtual is a nationally recognized leader in the development and delivery of telehealth solutions to hospitals around the country.

Through state-of-the-art telecommunication and remote patient monitoring technology located in each ICU room at these four AHN hospitals, board-certified intensivists based at Mercy’s Virtual Care Center seamlessly interact and collaborate with AHN clinical staff to provide an additional layer of 24/7 ICU patient care support.

Patient vital signs are continuously monitored by Mercy Virtual clinicians via secure, encrypted connections, while the program’s two-way, high-definition cameras are only activated during patient observations by the Mercy Virtual clinicians and during their engagement with the onsite clinical teams.

According to Anil Singh, MD, MPH, MMM, FCCP, Executive Medical Director of Clinical Transformation at Highmark Health and System Division Director of Critical Care at AHN, the partnership with Mercy Virtual has taken on new meaning in the setting of a pandemic as hospitals work to harness every resource at their disposal to care for critically-ill patients.

“Our collaboration with Mercy Virtual has strengthened the quality and scope of critical care services that we provide at our community hospitals, enabling many more of our patients to receive the advanced care they need closer to home,” said Dr. Singh. “Today, this partnership has even greater significance as we scale operations across our network in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.”

In caring for those with COVID-19, Dr. Singh says the continuous stream of real-time patient data enables more informed decision making which ultimately enhances the safety of frontline caregivers. If staffing needs should increase, the supplemental care provided via vICU ensures the same levels of high-quality critical care.

As AHN prepares for possible surges of patients with COVID-19 who require hospitalization in the weeks and months ahead, he says that plans are underway to create even more ICU beds at Allegheny Valley, Jefferson and Saint Vincent hospitals using the telehealth model.

“The success of our efforts in virtual care is directly linked to forward-thinking partners like Allegheny Health Network and Highmark Health. Together, we are able to constantly challenge the status quo in order to provide patients with the highest quality care. AHN’s patients are fortunate to have such strong leaders who are actively changing the approach to health care, while maintaining their focus on them,” said Ashok Palagiri, MD, Vice President of Mercy Virtual Inpatient Services.

In addition to critical care telehealth, AHN has significantly expanded its use of telemedicine across all components of its primary and specialty care programs in an effort to continue providing patients with safe, high-quality care amid the pandemic.

AHN is currently facilitating more than 3,000 telemedicine visits each day. Patients can request a virtual care appointment using AHN’s patient portal known as MyChart.

Gilead drug proves effective against coronavirus in US study
By MARILYNN MARCHIONE AP Chief Medical Writer
U.S. government officials say an experimental drug has proved effective against the new coronavirus in a major study. Gilead Sciences’s remdesivir is the first treatment to pass such a strict test against the virus, which has killed more than 218,000 people since it emerged late last year. The study was led by the U.S. National Institutes of Health and tested remdesivir versus usual care in more than 1,000 hospitalized coronavirus patients around the world. Results released Wednesday showed the drug reduced the time to recovery by 31%, or four days on average, compared to usual care. It is given through an IV and interferes with the virus’s ability to copy its genetic material.

Trump trade office adds Amazon to ‘notorious markets’ list
By PAUL WISEMAN AP Economics Writer
WASHINGTON (AP) — The United States for the first time added five of Amazon’s overseas operations to its list of “notorious markets” where pirated goods are sold. The e-commerce giant dismissed the move as part of the Trump administration’s “personal vendetta” against it. The Office of the U.S. Trade Representative on Wednesday added the Amazon domains in Canada, France, Germany, India and the United Kingdom to its annual blacklist. USTR cited complaints from U.S. businesses that consumers can’t easily tell who is selling items on the Amazon platforms and that the e-commerce company’s procedures for removing counterfeit goods “can be lengthy and burdensome.” President Donald Trump has clashed repeatedly with Amazon and its founder, Jeff Bezos.

Federal social distancing guidelines to expire

WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump says the federal government will not be extending its social distancing guidelines when they expire Thursday at the end of the month.

Trump told reporters in the Oval Office that the coronavirus guidelines will be “fading out” because of work that governors are doing in their states.

Vice President Mike Pence said the guidelines issued 45 days ago have been incorporated into guidance provided to the states on how they can begin the process of gradually reopening their economies.

The guidelines – which were originally supposed to last 15 days and were then extended another 30 – included encouraging Americans to work from home and avoid restaurants and discretionary travel as well as telling older Americans and those with serious underlying health conditions to isolate themselves

(Aliquippa, Pa.) Story by Beaver County Radio News Correspondent Sanody Giordano

Aliquippa Police Chief Donald A. Couch, Jr. was placed on paid administrative leave by by city council on Wednesday, June 6, 2018.  Earlier that day, according to facts presented to Chief Couch’s defense  attorney ,Colleen Ramage Johnston , Assistant Police Chief Joseph Perciavalle went home early from shift  because he was ill, he returned to work in uniform  an hour  before council’s meeting. He instructed one of the sergeants and 2 officers  to accompany him to the city building to escort Chief Couch from the meeting. He was ordered to relinquish his badge before being escorted from the meeting, deeply humiliated and for safety reasons. He turned in his weapon at the police station .Attorney Johnston  asked me if I was aware of what would occur at the meeting prior to it.  My answer to her was no.

Ex-manager Clint Hurdle’s daily emails encourage, inspire
By JANIE McCAULEY AP Baseball Writer
Clint Hurdle began sending his daily notes of inspiration more than 10 years ago, during his days managing the Colorado Rockies. They were a simple, small way of checking in with everybody on his staff to discuss leadership ideas or offer support. The dozen people would share something good from the week. Hurdle never planned to be such an important voice to friends and acquaintances near and far amid a global pandemic. What used to be group text messages have turned into much more — every morning, his Daily Encouragement emails go out to some 5,000 eager recipients.

PA Department of Agriculture Adopts Temporary FDA Food Labeling Policy, New Products Debut in Grocers, Restaurant Delivery 

Harrisburg, PA – The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture today reviewed the Food and Drug Administration’s temporary policy regarding nutrition labeling during the COVID-19 public health crisis, and provided clarity behind new items for sale in Pennsylvania’s grocery stores and restaurants.

“As restaurants comply with orders to offer carry-out services only, many find themselves with excess prepared food and ingredients,” said Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding. “In an effort to curb food waste, state food safety inspectors will allow restaurants and food manufacturers the flexibility to sell bulk foods and ingredients to their customers without the usual labeling requirements.”

This temporary policy by the FDA allows restaurants to sell ingredients and bulk prepared foods direct to consumers, and allows food manufacturers to distribute foods intended for restaurant-use to grocery stores for purchase by consumers. This means grocery shoppers may see industrial sized bags of soup or other prepared items, with non-traditional nutrition information labels. Eggs by the flat, instead of by the dozen, have also been approved by a separate guidance document from the FDA. This temporary flexibility also allows restaurants to sell meal kits or raw ingredients in addition to their regular menu of takeout items.

“We appreciate all the great work being done by our industry partners to ensure the food supply remains safe and strong for Americans during these challenging times,” said Pennsylvania Food Merchants Association President & CEO Alex Baloga. “We value and support the flexibility of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture to temporarily allow restaurants to sell bulk foods and ingredients to consumers, as well as thousands of our member grocery stores, to make sure the shelves continue to be stocked for millions of Pennsylvanians. We also understand and appreciate the flexibility in menu-labeling requirements through the duration of the COVID-19 public health emergency.”

Similar to recognizing a need for decreased food labeling requirements, the FDA issued guidance offering restaurants and retail food establishments flexibility for menu labeling. Under normal circumstances, restaurants and retail food establishments that are a part of a chain of 20 or more locations must provide nutrition information (calorie declarations) for standard menu items. Recognizing that business practices have been required to change as a result of COVID-19 – including modified menus, printed takeout menus, or online portals – the FDA will not object to restaurants that do not meet requirements.

“Restaurants are a vital component of our communities’ food supply. As such, the PRLA is grateful for the temporary lifting of restrictions by the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture so restaurants can enhance take out offerings to include a larger array of grocery items. The loosening of FDA restrictions will not only reduce food waste but will provide a revenue stream for struggling small businesses and provide greater access to food in communities across the commonwealth,” said John Longstreet, PRLA president & CEO. “The PRLA encourages restaurants and small markets across the state to work with suppliers to increase meal kit and grocery options to enhance their traditional menus and continue to serve a critical role within our communities.”

These federal policies will remain in effect, and enforced as such by Pennsylvania’s food safety inspectors, for the duration of the public health emergency related to COVID-19.

“The FDA’s proactive action to modify labeling requirements for the restaurant and food industry is instrumental in ensuring food is always accessible and never wasted during the COVID-19 pandemic,” added Redding. “Enjoy the new selections from local restaurants and don’t be afraid to pick up restaurant-sized options from your grocery store to feed your family. Keeping these products moving is essential to supporting Pennsylvania’s hard-working food supply chain.”

Pennsylvanians are encouraged to support local restaurants visiting CarryoutPA, a website with a comprehensive list restaurants offering takeout, curbside, or delivery services during the state’s Stay at Home order. CarryoutPA was developed by the Pennsylvania Restaurant and Lodging Association to serve as a go-to resource for dine-out options in support of the commonwealth’s restaurant industry, which accounts for 10 percent of jobs statewide.

For a complete list of guidance documents and information as it relates to agriculture during COVID-19 mitigation in Pennsylvania visit agriculture.pa.gov/COVID. For the most accurate, timely information related to Health in Pennsylvania, visit on.pa.gov/coronavirus.

Department of Health Provides Update on COVID-19, 1,102 Positives Bring Statewide Total to 44,366

Harrisburg, PA – The Pennsylvania Department of Health today confirmed as of 12:00 a.m., April 29, that there are 1,102 additional positive cases of COVID-19, bringing the statewide total to 44,366. All 67 counties in Pennsylvania have cases of COVID-19.

As a result of our continued work to reconcile data from various sources, the state is reporting an increase of 479 deaths today bringing the statewide total to 2,195 deaths in Pennsylvania. These deaths have occurred over the last two weeks. County-specific information and a statewide map are available here.

Locally in Beaver County we are up 4 cases since yesterday to 392 cases. 2007 people have tested negative and the county is up 6 deaths to 65.

In the 3 Nursing homes in the county that are reporting positive cases there is 251 positive cases. There are 4  increases since yesterday 20 employees have tested positive and the deaths have increased by 6 to 58

“As we see the number of new COVID-19 cases continuously change across the state that does not mean we can stop practicing social distancing,” Sec. of Health Dr. Rachel Levine said. “We must continue to stay home to protect ourselves, our families and our community. If you must go out, please make as few trips as possible and wear a mask to protect not only yourself, but others. We need all Pennsylvanians to continue to heed these efforts to protect our vulnerable Pennsylvanians, our health care workers and frontline responders.”

There are 170,518 patients who have tested negative to date. Of the patients who have tested positive to date the age breakdown is as follows:

• Nearly 1% are aged 0-4;
• Nearly 1% are aged 5-12;
• 1% are aged 13-18;
• Nearly 6% are aged 19-24;
• 38% are aged 25-49;
• 27% are aged 50-64; and
• 26% are aged 65 or older.

Most of the patients hospitalized are aged 65 or older, and most of the deaths have occurred in patients 65 or older. There have been no pediatric deaths to date. More data is available here.

In nursing and personal care homes, there are 7,698 resident cases of COVID-19, and 975 cases among employees, for a total of 8,673 at 461 distinct facilities in 42 counties. Out of our total deaths, 1,428 have occurred in residents from nursing or personal care facilities. A county breakdown can be found here.

All non-life-sustaining businesses are ordered to be closed and schools are closed statewide through the remainder of the academic year. Currently the entire state is under a stay-at-home order.

THOUSANDS OF HEALTHCARE WORKERS AND FIRST RESPONDERS IN BEAVER COUNTY

ENJOYING FREE “THANK YOU MEALS” FROM McDONALD’S RESTAURANTS

Frontline Heroes Can Enjoy Free Meals At Local McDonald’s Restaurants

BEAVER, PA…April 28, 2020 — In appreciation for the healthcare workers, police officers, firefighters and paramedics who are committed to public health and safety, McDonald’s is offering free Thank You Meals* through Tuesday, May 5 to demonstrate appreciation for their selfless service.

“We’ve served thousands of Thank You Meals since the program began last week,” said local McDonald’s Owner/Operator Meghan Sweeney.  “As local business owners, my family and I know that this community needs McDonald’s now more than ever and we’re committed to serving them.  We’re proud to support our neighbors who are on the frontlines as first responders and healthcare workers with Thank You Meals.”

While the majority of America is staying home, McDonald’s has remained open, with hardworking restaurant workers serving hot meals to communities who need quick and affordable options, especially healthcare workers and first responders on the frontlines.  The brand is grateful for the ongoing dedication and commitment of McDonald’s employees who enable McDonald’s to stay open to serve our communities during these challenging times.

Each Thank You Meal will be available at no charge via drive thru or carry out at participating McDonald’s restaurants nationwide through May 5. The Thank You Meal, available during breakfast, lunch or dinner, will feature a choice of sandwiches, drinks, and a side order of a Hash Brown or small order of World Famous Fries, along with a note of appreciation. It will be served in McDonald’s iconic Happy Meal box, in the hopes of bringing a smile along with delicious food.

Day or night, frontline heroes can simply show a work badge or visit in uniform to receive one of the Thank You Meal options:

Breakfast

• A choice of an Egg McMuffin^®, Chicken McGriddles^® or a Bacon, Egg and Cheese Biscuit. All options come with any size soft drink, tea or hot coffee and a Hash Brown.

 Lunch and Dinner

• A choice of a Double Cheeseburger, 6-Piece Chicken McNuggets^® or a Filet-O-Fish^®. All options come with any size soft drink, tea or hot coffee and small fries.

During past times of national crisis, McDonald’s has helped and served communities in need, from donating funds to disaster relief efforts to providing food for those impacted by natural disasters. McDonald’s commitment to feeding the nation’s healthcare workers and first responders throughout the current pandemic is a continuation of that dedication.

Serving brave healthcare workers and first responders would not be possible without McDonald’s dedicated and unwavering restaurant employees, who are also doing their part to help during this time. McDonald’s employees are the heart of the business, and their health and safety has been, and will continue to be, McDonald’s top priority. McDonald’s has implemented almost 50 new safety measures to ensure the well-being of its employees, and continuing to explore additional safety steps in accordance with guidance issued by local and national health authorities including the CDC.

Nearly all McDonald’s U.S. restaurants remain open and are offering convenient and contactless ways for customers to enjoy McDonald’s favorites through drive thru, carry out, McDelivery, and mobile order & pay with our app.