A Message to PHNTX Patients - COVID-19 Update

Dear Patients,

I’m writing to update you on the recent increase in COVID-19 cases in Dallas County. The daily number of cases is reaching the levels seen in March 2021. The Delta Variant is the primary form of COVID-19 now circulating. This variant is very effective at attaching to and reproducing in cells that line the nose and airway. It is reported to produce 1000x more viral particles than the original alpha variant, making it extremely contagious. Ninety-seven percent of those now hospitalized are unvaccinated.

The highly transmissible Delta variant has been detected in breakthrough cases in some vaccinated people.  However, the number of breakthrough cases for vaccinated individuals is believed to be very small (less than 1%) and results in less severe symptoms, hospitalizations, ICU admissions, and deaths.

To reduce transmission of the Delta variant and other variants of concern, the CDC has issued a new guidance (July 27,2021) for fully vaccinated people.  Masks with social distancing are recommended for indoor gatherings due to the spread of the Delta variant.  If you are exposed to a person with known COVID-19, it is recommended that you get tested 3-5 days after the exposure or as soon as symptoms develop.  Prism Health North Texas is offering COVID-19 testing at no charge to patients.  Please contact your home clinic if you want to be evaluated for COVID testing

Prism Health North Texas remains committed to protecting the health and well-being of patients to the greatest extent possible, therefore we will be returning to screening in the lobbies of all clinics. Patients that report symptoms of COVID-19 at screening may be sent for testing at the South Dallas Health Center (4922 Spring Ave, Dallas) and your appointment will be conducted via telehealth.  COVID-19 testing at Prism Health North Texas will be done at no cost to you, but you do need to schedule an appointment through your home clinic.

Additionally, all patients will be asked to wear a procedure mask while in the clinic beginning August 9, 2021.  The clinic waiting rooms will also be monitored to maintain adequate social distancing.

Prism Health North Texas also has COVID-19 vaccine available.  Patients wishing to receive a COVID-19 vaccine may schedule an appointment by calling their home clinic.

As your medical provider, we strongly encourage you to consider receiving the COVID-19 vaccine if you have not done so already.  You may contact you home clinic if you would like to discuss or schedule COVID-19 vaccination with your provider or a nurse.

Please stay safe!

Cathy Bryan
Executive Vice President, Patient Services and Operations