EDITOR’S NOTE: As I’m posting this update, I’m seeing images of bumper-to-bumper traffic heading west on both Highway 6 and 26. The feature photo was taken by Larry Wiedenhoft shows the solid line of traffic heading west. They did not listen, they did not get the poorly communicated message, and they are coming anyway. Against the advice of OHSU, and because our state did not take decisive action issuing an Order to Shelter in Your Community, but rather a marketing campaign slogan “suggestion” to “stay home and stay healthy.” Way to endanger the health our coastal communities state of Oregon, which by the way are 60% (or more) 65 plus – the vulnerable population. Coastal residents, friends and family – for those that are able, suggestions from the healthcare community are to have little/no outside contact. Please note – there are volunteers standing by ready to help. Email to editor@tillamookcountypioneer.net or complete the online forms for NEEDS requests.
Or if you are able, to volunteer, complete the Volunteer Form.
OHA Reports – New Cases; 0 in Tillamook, Lincoln & Clatsop Counties
Oregon Health Authority reported new cases of COVID-19 as of 8:30 am, March 21st, the state total to 137. THERE ARE NO CASES COVID-19 in Tillamook, Lincoln or Clatsop Counties. The website now lists all counties with numbers of tests. A statistic not often shared is the number of NEGATIVE tests – 2,338 negative tests; and there are 437 tests pending. Oregon Health Authority reports new cases once a day on its website: www.healthoregon.org/coronavirus.
From Oregon Health Authority 3/20/20: Practicing social distancing isn’t easy. It’s spring, the sun is coming out, and many of us have vacations we’ve been looking forward to that had to be cancelled. Students are out of school until late April. We miss the in-person connections to our friends and loved ones. And, there are serious economic impacts being felt throughout our communities.
We’re asking a lot from Oregonians right now. However, it’s really important that you take this message to heart and share it with your parents, kids, friends and family: The actions we take now will determine how many people our hospitals can treat, how many lives they can save and how long this pandemic will last. Let’s work together to slow the spread of COVID-19.
Help support Oregon’s healthcare workforce – Donate your PPE
Healthcare professionals show up at work every day to keep our communities healthy and safe. There is currently a shortage of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). PPE includes items like surgical masks, face shields, respirators, surgical gowns and gloves. Hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities and others who are working on the frontlines of treating Oregonians with COVID-19 need access to PPE to get through this pandemic. Medical professionals such as dentists and veterinarians or non-health care private sector businesses like contractors or electricians are encouraged to donate their PPE to support Oregon’s statewide supply.
More information on where to donate PPE can be found on this website.
If your work situation has changed, you may quality for OHP
If you have had a change in your employment, you may qualify for health coverage through the Oregon Health Plan (OHP). OHP is our state’s Medicaid program, offering free health care to anyone who qualifies. Eligibility for the OHP is based on monthly income and other requirements. That means you may qualify for OHP now, even if you have been denied in the past. The best way to see if you qualify is to apply. Visit OHP.Oregon.gov for more information.