Reading Hospital Foundation announced today that it donated $250,000 to Reading Hospital for COVID-19 relief efforts.
"The Foundation is here to support the Reading Hospital community, physicians, and staff," said Jeff Rush, Chair, Reading Hospital Foundation Board of Directors. "We've never seen anything like this in the storied history of our hospital and we are committed to providing the assistance needed at this critical time."
A Virtual Intensive Care Unit (ICU) will allow Critical Care physicians to evaluate patients at all Tower Health facilities, including Reading Hospital, from a Command Center which is located remotely. Staff will use Epic Monitor/Vidyo, which will allow them to virtually manage patients in all ICU's. They can see the patient, the patient's critical clinical information, and provide direction to caregivers on site. The Virtual ICU will be a permanent fixture at Reading Hospital after the pandemic is over.
The Emergency Tent, placed adjacent to the Reading Hospital Emergency Department, will be used to create additional capacity and treat suspected COVID patients. This additional assessment space will ensure that patients will continue to receive life-saving care inside our Emergency Department. The tent can also be used for future emergencies as needed.
As preparations continue for the surge of COVID-19 patients expected in our communities, Reading Hospital has, in an abundance of caution, placed a trailer on site to serve as a temporary morgue in the event our internal facilities reach capacity. This temporary facility will help ensure the Hospital's ability to treat those who have passed with dignity while their families make final arrangements.
"The generous donation from Reading Hospital Foundation comes at a critical time for the Reading Hospital team and community," said William M. Jennings, Reading Hospital President and CEO. "The projects they have funded will provide safety for patients and team members, and ensure we are prepared for future emergency situations.
About Reading Hospital
Reading Hospital is the flagship, Magnet Recognized, acute care hospital of Tower Health. Located in West Reading, Pa., Reading Hospital is a 714-bed hospital that is home to many top-tier specialty care centers, including Reading HealthPlex, McGlinn Cancer Institute, Miller Regional Heart Center, Emergency Department, Level I Trauma Center and Beginnings Maternity Center, which houses the region's only Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). With more than 1,000 physicians, specialists, and advanced practice providers across 49 locations, Reading Hospital has been recognized for its quality outcomes and clinical expertise across services lines. It is listed as one of America's 100 Best Hospitals for four consecutive years and received a 5-Star Rating from CMS two years in a row. For more information, visit towerhealth.org.