Rutland Regional, state prepare for reopening with testing for those symptomatic and contact tracing By Polly Mikula Since the beginning of April, at least, the state of Vermont and all its regional hospitals and health clinics have had enough Covid-19 tests to test all symptomatic patients for the virus. All it takes to get one…

On April 17, Governor Phil Scott announced a flag lowering procedure to honor Vermonters who have died due to Covid-19, making the following statement: “This Sunday, April 19, marks one month since Vermont’s first two fatalities as a result of Covid-19. In honor of all the Vermonters we have lost to this terrible disease, I…

By Virginia Dean RUTLAND — Although telemedicine has been practiced since the 1990s, it is needed and being used now more than ever, given the recent and daily difficulties of the coronavirus pandemic. “Social distancing guidelines make it harder to do many things, including going to doctor’s appointments,” said Peg Bolgioni, marketing and public relations…

In response to the Covid-19 pandemic and to ensure that Medicaid members have access to the medications they need, the Department of Vermont Health Access (DVHA) has implemented the following changes to its prescription drug benefits programs, effective Friday, March 30. The mandatory 90-day supply requirement for select medications was suspended to allow pharmacies to…

The Vermont Department of Health has launched VTHelplink, a new, single source clearinghouse for Vermonters to receive free, confidential and personalized information and referrals to substance use prevention, treatment and recovery services throughout the state. “The global pandemic has not erased the continued urgent need for substance use-related services for Vermonters,” said Health Commissioner Mark Levine,…

The new coronavirus attacks the lungs, making it harder for people who smoke or vape — tobacco, cannabis or anything else — to fight off the virus and putting them at much greater risk of severe illness, even death. Through outreach and social media promotion, the Health Department has been helping Vermonters to learn that…

Help is one call away The Vermont State Police, Vermont Attorney General’s Office and the Vermont Network Against Domestic and Sexual Violence join with other law-enforcement agencies and advocacy organizations to acknowledge the unique and difficult challenges facing people who are living in abusive and violent circumstances during the Covid-19 pandemic. “While we continue to…

Support for parents is vital for children’s well being “We understand isolation... can be very challenging for families with children,” stated Ed Bride, deputy/development director at Prevent Child Abuse Vermont (PCAVT). Young children need and actually thrive with predictable structure to their days, as well as attention and interactive play. They need their naps and…

BROC Community Action Hours open: Mon-Fri. 10 a.m.-12 p.m., Senior hours Friday 2-3 p.m. Location: 45 Union St, Rutland, VT Phone: 802-775-0878 Black River Good Neighbor Services, Thrift Store/Food Shelf Hours Open: Mon.-Fri. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Location: 37B Main St., Ludlow, VT Phone: 802-228-3663 Brandon Area Emergency Food Shelf Hours open: Mon., Wed., Fri.: 8:30-9…

The Covid-19 pandemic has changed many services, qualification parameters and protocols for accessing services provided — including food services. Here is a list of resources for those needing assistance, or not —grocery store hours have also changed to allow for sanitation and restocking as well as senior hours and/or density limitations. Grocery stores update hours,…

How can you help prevent getting the virus? Stay at least 6 feet away from others. Stay at home as much as possible. Avoid close contact with people who are sick. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth. Stay home when you are sick. Cover your coughs and sneezes with your sleeve or a tissue,…

Community Health Centers of Rutland Region Rutland Allen Pond 71 Allen Pond, Suite 403, Rutland, VT Phone: (802) 772-7992 Rutland Stratton Road 215 Stratton Road, Rutland, VT Phone: (802) 773-3386 Brandon 420 Grove Street, Brandon, VT Phone: (802)247-6305 Castleton 275 Rte 30 North, Bomoseen, VT Phone: (802)468-5641 West Pawlet/Mettowee 278 VT Route 149, West Pawlet, VT…

CEO Claudio Fort says hospital is “ok for now” on PPE By Polly Mikula On April 2, Governor Phil Scott announced new steps in the state’s plan to prepare for a surge in Covid-19 cases, and in turn, the need for additional hospital and medical capacity. “While we hope we will not need this extra…

  April 17, Governor Scott ordered the U.S. and Vermont  flags to fly at half-mast the 19th of every month of 2020 to honor those Vermonters who died from Covid-19. April 17, Governor Scott announced a phased restart of Vermont’s economy, where 1-2 people operations can open following strict safety and social distancing protocols. April…

5 ways to protect yourself and others Wash your hands frequently for at least 20 seconds with antibacterial soap and water. By doing this you eliminate viruses and avoid infection by then touching your eyes, mouth, and nose. Utilize hand sanitizer (60% alcohol or more) when hand washing is not an immediate option. Remain home…