This page will no longer be updated as of 11/1/2022. For the most up-to-date information, please visit the COVID-19 Information Page

CURRENT RISK LEVEL

As of June 2, 2023- Valor Health will remain in RISK LEVEL GREEN until further posted.

May 8th, 2023- May 22nd, 2023

April 24, 2023- May 8th, 2023

April 10, 2023- April 24, 2023

March 27, 2023- April 10, 2023

March 13th, 2023- March 27th, 2023

February 27th, 2023- March 13th, 2023

February 13th, 2023- February 27th, 2023

January 30^th, 2023 to February 13th, 2023

January 9, 2023 7:00am – January 23, 2023

December 19, 2022 7:00am – January 9, 2023

December 5, 2022, 7:00am- December 19, 2022

November 21, 2022, 7:00am – December 5, 2022, 7:00am

November 3, 2022, 7:00am – November 21, 2022, 7:00am

October 24th, 2022, 7am- November 7th, 7am

October 10th, 2022, 7am to October 24th, 2022, 7am

September 26, 2022- October 10, 2022 7am

Valor Health has extended the COVID-19 risk level operational phase to two-week intervals. Every two weeks, a risk level will be identified based on the current community positivity rates.

September 19, 2022 7am- September 26, 2022 7am

September 12, 2022 7am- September 19, 2022 7am

September 5, 2022 7am- September 12, 2022 7am

August 29, 2022 7am – September 5, 2022 7am

August 23, 2022 7am – August 29, 2022 7am

August 15, 2022 7am – August 22, 2022 7am

August 8, 2022 7am- August 15, 2022 7am

August 1, 2022, 7am – August 8, 2022 7am

July 25, 7am to August 1, 2022, 7am

July 18, 7am to July 25, 2022, 7am

July 11, 2022, 7am to July 18, 2022, 7am

July 4, 2022, 7am to July 11, 2022, 7am

June 27th, 2022, 7am to July 4, 2022, 7am

June 20th, 2022, 7am to June 27th, 2022, 7am

June 13th, 2022, 7am to June 20th, 2022, 7am

June 6th, 2022, 7am to June 13th, 2022, 7am

May 30th, 2022, 7am to June 6th, 2022, 7am

May 23rd, 2022, 7am to May 30th, 2022, 7am

May 16th, 2022, 7am to May 23rd, 2022, 7am

Please see attached for detailed information about important differences in this operational phase.     Our Restoration Guide is also attached as a resource for you.

May 9, 2022 7am- May 16, 2022 7am

May 2, 2022 7am – May 9, 2022 7am

WEEK OF APRIL 25, 2022 – MAY 2, 2022

WEEK OF APRIL 18, 2022- APRIL 24, 2022

Self Screening Guidance– Please follow this screening tool during Gray and Green Stages-

COVID-19 Infection Prevention Operational Plan- Update 4/11/2022

Valor Health continues to assess COVID-19 and its effect on our community and organization. In response to the need for consistent practices and clear communication, we have established a plan to determine which infection prevention precautions will remain in place or will be temporarily lifted to best serve our staff, patients, and other guests on our campus while remaining compliant with the CMS Conditions of Participation.

Each week we will identify the Risk Category Color- GREEN, GRAY, YELLOW, or RED- that will easily communicate the precautions currently in place for our patients, visitors, and staff.

Precautions at Valor will always be more stringent than in the general public. We have a sacred responsibility to care for the most vulnerable people in our community—our top priority is to protect our patients and our staff. Also, we must comply with very strict regulations to maintain our health system licensure and continue to provide services to the people of Gem County.

Updates will occur each Monday and will be communicated on our website and social media, together with signage on our campus.

WEEK OF APRIL 11, 2022 – APRIL 17, 2022

Self Screening Guidance– Please follow this screening tool during Gray and Green Stages-

To see the complete Restoration Plan details click HERE

CDC Guidance Masking Update- 3/3/2022

Recently the CDC has released new mask-wearing guidance. Although the guidance loosens community restrictions, Valor Health patients, visitors, employees, vendors, and volunteers are still required to wear masks inside any Valor Health building. It is critical for healthcare organizations to continue taking safety precautions to prevent the spread of the virus, even if community recommendations are less restrictive. We continue to monitor the situation closely and update our policies accordingly.  We hope, as much as anyone, that we reach a point where circumstances improve and tight guidelines for healthcare facilities become unnecessary.

When choosing whether or not to wear a mask in public, it is important to consider your community’s COVID-19 risk level, based on the weekly new case rate and the state of hospital capacity in your area.

The CDC has a great tool to help determine your community’s risk level: COVID-19 Community Levels.

Per the CDC, Gem County’s Community Level is currently listed as High.

Guidance at a High level includes:

• Wear a mask indoors in public
• Stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccines
• Get tested if you have symptoms
• Additional precautions may be needed for people at high risk for severe illness

People may choose to mask at any time. People with symptoms, a positive test, or exposure to someone with COVID-19 should wear a mask.

For full details and the most recent guidance on mask-wearing, visit https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/about-face-coverings.html

FDA approves Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine- 2/1/2022

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved a second COVID-19 vaccine on February 1, 2022. The vaccine has been known as the Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine; the approved vaccine will be marketed as Spikevax for the prevention of COVID-19 in individuals 18 years of age and older. For full details visit

Valor Health COVID-19 Testing Hours and Availability- Update 1/14/2022

Due to the recent increase in COVID testing, and staffing availability concerns, Valor Health Family Medicine will be limiting COVID-19 testing hours.

COVID-19 Testing is available for symptomatic patients by appointment, Monday-Friday 9am-4pm. Please call (208)365-6004 to schedule your appointment.

If you are sick and need to see a provider quickly, Valor Health Urgent Care is available 7 days a week, Monday-Friday 8am-8pm and Saturday-Sunday 8am-5pm. Urgent Care hours may be limited in the future, as we continue to face staffing shortages and increased need for care.

VAULT take-home COVID-19 tests are available for Asymptomatic patients. Tests are available at the Family Medicine Screening Station located at the front of our clinic.

To ensure the safety of patients and staff, we ask that patients needing follow-up COVID care schedule a convenient telemedicine appointment with their primary care provider.

CDC Booster Shot Recommendations- Update 1/12/2022

CDC is adjusting their recommendation for when people can receive a booster shot, shortening the interval from 6 months to 5 months. Earlier this week CDC made this recommendation for recipients of a Pfizer-BioNTech primary series and, after FDA actionexternal icon this morning, we’re extending this recommendation to recipients of a Moderna primary series. This means that people who initially received an mRNA vaccine series – two doses of Moderna or Pfizer-BioNTech – can now receive an mRNA booster shot 5 months after completing their initial series.   

For full information, visit

https://www.cdc.gov/media/releases/2022/s0107-moderna-booster.html

FDA Takes Multiple Actions to Expand Use of Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine- 1/3/2022

• Expand the use of a single booster dose to include use in individuals 12 through 15 years of age.
• Shorten the time between the completion of primary vaccination of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine and a booster dose to at least five months.
• Allow for a third primary series dose for certain immunocompromised children 5 through 11 years of age.

For full information- https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/coronavirus-covid-19-update-fda-takes-multiple-actions-expand-use-pfizer-biontech-covid-19-vaccine

https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/covid-19/eua/index.html

CDC Shortens Recommended Isolation and Quarantine Period for General Population and Healthcare Workers- 12/29/2021

Given what we currently know about COVID-19 and the Omicron variant, CDC is shortening the recommended time for isolation for the public. People with COVID-19 should isolate for 5 days and if they are asymptomatic or their symptoms are resolving (without fever for 24 hours), follow that by 5 days of wearing a mask when around others to minimize the risk of infecting people they encounter. The change is motivated by science demonstrating that the majority of SARS-CoV-2 transmission occurs early in the course of illness, generally in the 1-2 days prior to onset of symptoms and the 2-3 days after. For full and most up-to-date information, please visit

CDC General Public Guidelines https://www.cdc.gov/media/releases/2021/s1227-isolation-quarantine-guidance.html

CDC Healthcare Workers Guidelines https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/hcp/guidance-risk-assesment-hcp.html

COVID-19 Vaccine Available for Age 5 Years and Older

What You Need to Know- 12/1/2021

The CDC has announced that:

• Everyone ages 5 and older can get vaccinated against COVID-19. Learn how to find a COVID-19 vaccine.
• COVID-19 vaccines are effective at helping protect against severe disease and death from the virus that causes COVID-19.
• The benefits of COVID-19 vaccination outweigh the known and potential risks, which are rare.
• As with other routine vaccines, side effects may occur after vaccination. These are normal and should go away within a few days.
• People who are fully vaccinated can resume many activities they did before the pandemic. However, people should wear a mask indoors in public if they are in an area of substantial or high transmission.
• If you received a Pfizer-BioNTech (ages 12 and older) or Moderna (ages 18 and older) mRNA COVID-19 vaccine primary series and have a moderately to severely compromised immune system, you should receive an additional primary dose of the same mRNA COVID-19 vaccine at least 28 days after the second dose.
• Everyone ages 18 years and older who is fully vaccinated is eligible to receive a booster shot.
• Unlike many medications, COVID-19 vaccine dosage does not vary by patient weight but by age on the day of vaccination.
• People can get a COVID-19 vaccine and other vaccines, including flu vaccine, at the same time.

COVID-19 Testing current as of 10/27/2021

COVID-19 Testing is available for symptomatic patients, by appointment or walk-in at our Family Medicine and Urgent Care Clinic, located at 1102 E Locust Street.

Appointments are available Monday – Friday, 8am-5pm. Please call (208) 365-6004 to schedule.

Walk-in testing is available during Urgent Care hours, Monday-Friday 8am-8pm and Saturday-Sunday, 8am-5pm. Wait times may be longer than normal, based on demand.

COVID-19 and Flu Vaccination Update- 10/27/2021

The COVID-19 Vaccines and Flu Vaccine are available at Valor Health Family Medicine by appointment Monday-Friday, 8am-5pm. To schedule an appointment please call (208) 365-6004.

To learn more about the difference between COVID-19, the Flu and Cold, visit https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/coronavirus/in-depth/covid-19-cold-flu-and-allergies-differences/art-20503981

Current COVID-19 Vaccines available- Moderna, Pfizer, J&J- If you have questions about which vaccine is best for you, speak to your provider.

Booster doses are available for eligible individuals-

• 65 years and older
• Age 18+ who live in long-term care settings
• Age 18+ who have underlying medical conditions
• Age 18+ who work or live in high-risk settings

There are now booster recommendations for all three available COVID-19 vaccines in the United States. Eligible individuals may choose which vaccine they receive as a booster dose. Some people may have a preference for the vaccine type that they originally received, and others may prefer to get a different booster. CDC’s recommendations now allow for this type of mix and match dosing for booster shots.

When receiving your second, third, or booster dose, please bring your Vaccine Card.

ATTENTION COVID-19 Testing Update- 10/7/2021

COVID-19 testing is only available during URGENT CARE HOURS, Monday through Friday 8am-8pm and weekends 8am-5pm. No appointment is needed, but testing wait times may vary depending on demand and resources.

COVID-19 Testing Update 9/8/2021

COVID-19 testing is currently available for SYMPTOMATIC patients BY APPOINTMENT ONLY. Appointments are available 7 days a week, 10am-3pm daily. You can schedule by calling our clinic at (208) 365-6004.

• Valor Health offers COVID-19 testing to patients with COVID-19 symptoms, as confirmed by clinical evaluation. 
• Patients need to be symptomatic for 3-5 days prior to testing.
• COVID-19 tests will be provided only to patients who meets this criteria.

We are not offering asymptomatic testing at this time in order to preserve our testing supplies.

The Idaho Department of Health and Welfare is offering free, at-home COVID-19 test kits (VAULT PCR tests). Tests can be requested by calling 2-1-1; no personal information is required other than a name and mailing address. Learn more at https://healthandwelfare.idaho.gov/news/free-home-covid-19-tests-are-available-idaho-dialing-2-1-1#main-content

Valor Health also has a limited stock of the VAULT* PCR at-home COVID-19 tests kits. Tests are available while supplies last. Tests will be available at our drive-up greeting station in the parking lot of Valor Health Family Medicine, located at 1102 E Locust Street during these hours:

• Monday-Friday 8-5
• Saturday 8-3

*To use VAULT tests, individuals will create an account on their phone or tablet using their email account. They will then contact a remote observer via Zoom and collect the saliva specimen as the observer watches over Zoom. The saliva sample will then be mailed to VAULT in a self-addressed, pre-paid envelope via UPS. Results are available to the individual electronically in 24–72 hours. Test results are also reported to Idaho state or local public health departments by VAULT, per federal requirements for all COVID-19 testing.

Valor Health COVID-19 Update- 9/2/2021

The current COVID-19 surge continues to put pressure on our courageous Valor Health staff and limited resources. We are responding to significant needs for COVID testing and care for symptomatic patients in our urgent care, as well as treating COVID and other patients in our emergency department and in our hospital. With this increased demand on our already-stressed staff, we have been forced to defer primary care services and reassign resources to cover demand, which limits walk-in and wellness appointment availability. Due to this, we are seeing extended wait times which can be frustrating for our patients. We are again facing this challenge head-on and working hard to provide the immediate care needed and handle the increased demand of our community.

As a rural, critical access healthcare system, we work closely with our regional partners to provide the right care for our patients when and where they need it. Within our hospital, we continue to care for general medicine and COVID patients who do not need ICU services.  We are seeing limited hospital resources and availability across our region and state on a daily basis. Our partners who usually accept our emergency patient transfers are full or are filling up quickly. We are having difficulty finding hospitals that can accept our patients whose acute needs require higher levels of care. We have not stopped doing surgeries and procedures, as some healthcare systems have done, but may do so if we are forced to redirect more staff and resources to address surge-related patient care needs.

Your dedicated Valor team is committed to your health and well-being.  We are working tirelessly to care for the people of Gem County.  We encourage our community members to continue to be diligent in fighting COVID-19. There are things you can do to help us and prevent the spread of this virus!

• Get vaccinated.  Schedule your appointment at Valor by calling (208) 365-6004
• Monitor your health daily
• Wear a mask
• Wash your hands
• Cover coughs and sneezes
• Stay 6 feet away and avoid crowds
• Clean and disinfect

Learn more at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/prevention.html

COVID-19 Testing Information and Urgent Care- Update 9/2/2021

Over the past months, we have seen an increase in the numbers of symptomatic and asymptomatic patients requesting COVID-19 testing. Due to this increase, we are experiencing longer-than-normal wait times in our Emergency Department and Urgent Care Clinic.

In order to support our staff in managing the overwhelming amount of testing they are providing and to preserve our limited testing supplies COVID-19 testing will be available by appointment only.

Call Valor Health Family Medicine and Urgent Care at 208 365 6004 to schedule an appointment.

Appointments are available 7 days a week, from 10am-3pm.

You will be screened upon arrival and asked to wear a mask when you enter our facilities.

Patient and Visitor Policy Changes- Update 08/23/2021

We have made changes to our patient and visitor policy due to the increase of COVID-19 in our community.

IMPORTANT UPDATE- 08/18/2021 ATTENTION: In order to accommodate the local and regional surge in COVID cases, which has created extraordinary demands on our staff and resources, Valor Health will be making important changes to our services.

Effective August 18:

• Urgent Care will change COVID testing from walk-in access to appointment-based access starting August 13th.  COVID tests can be scheduled by making an appointment by calling (208) 365-6004.  Testing will be offered Monday through Sunday from 10AM to 3PM. 
• Screening may be recommended for patients who feel sick with a cough, fever, difficulty breathing, or if they have recently come in contact with someone COVID positive.  If there are any questions about testing, patients are encouraged to call their provider to help determine an individual’s need for testing. 
• Patients arriving at Family Medicine and Urgent Care will be screened for COVID symptoms.  Valor will only allow well patients arriving for routine or wellness visits inside the clinic lobby.  Any patients experiencing symptoms will be asked to wait in their car and call (208) 365-6004 to speak with registration staff.  Please have your information ready (name, address, phone number and insurance information).  Once registered, you will be assigned to the next available clinical staff member who will greet you at your car and assess you at that time.  
• Similarly, the Emergency Department (ED) will not allow patients or visitors to reside in the waiting room at this time. All patients will be masked upon entrance to the building despite their chief complaint and will be asked to wait in their car if they are clinically stable and no ED treatment room is immediately available.  In addition to these precautions, ED patients will not be allowed any visitors at the bedside unless certain exemptions exist; these include end of life care, translators, care of minors, or when deemed necessary and appropriate by clinical staff. If exemptions exist, the patient is allowed 1 visitor at the bedside at a time. This visitor must be above the age of 14 and will be screened by ED Staff for signs and symptoms related to COVID-19.  Visitors will be expected to wear a mask at all times while on the unit and follow proper hand hygiene procedures when entering and exiting the room and after touching the patient or their belongings. 

Patients interested in receiving the COVID-19 Vaccine should call Valor Health Family Medicine Clinic at (208)365-6004 to schedule an appointment. Appointments are available in clinic, Monday and Friday.

Vaccine Event Information- Update 2/4/2021

This Thursday and Friday, February 4-5, Valor Health will be participating in a County/City COVID Vaccination Clinic. At this event, we hope to administer 200 first dose Moderna vaccinations received earlier this week from SWDH to remaining Tier 1 and Tier 2 individuals, including healthcare and child care workers, first responders, educational staff, and those aged 65 and older.

On weeks when we receive vaccination we will announce a publicly available vaccine event. These events will be open for scheduling. Individuals will need to use the Idaho Vaccine Registration website, https://www.idahoprepmod.com to schedule appointments. Appointments will be available first-come, first-serve and once full, scheduling will stop until the following week’s event is announced.

Currently, there are an estimated 4000+ individuals remaining in the Tier 2 category to vaccinate in our community. This will take time to accomplish, and we ask for your patience.

Vaccine Availability and Scheduling- Update 2/2/2021

Valor Health is working with County and City officials to offer the COVID-19 vaccine to our community members 65 years and older. The plan is to offer larger vaccination events, as early as this week. Once we receive the vaccinations, we will begin contacting patients that are on our waiting list and will also be announcing availability and scheduling processes on social media and website. When vaccinations are available, you will be able to easily sign up here, on the Valor Health Website. Until then, we will continue to bring you the most up-to-date information as we have it.

Currently, we are no longer placing patients on a waiting list due to the overwhelming response and general questions received. If you have general questions, the best resource available is the NEW Idaho Health and Welfare Vaccination website.

Valor Health is receiving a limited supply of vaccines each week and the demand for the vaccination exceeds the quantities received. To date, Valor has not wasted any doses of the vaccination, administering each dose to identified individuals that fall within Tier 1-2 categories. Learn more about the Tiers here .

We understand that many of you are eager to receive your vaccination. Please know that we are working diligently to be able to provide this to our community.

Valor Health provides COVID vaccine to Emmett School District- Update 1/29/2021

Today is a big day for our community! To date, Valor has delivered an estimated 500 first-round vaccinations and 90 second-round vaccinations to healthcare workers, first responders, and now our teachers and school staff. We have been working diligently with County and City officials and Southwest District Health to finalize a plan to offer vaccinations to the 65+ population as soon as we receive vaccinations to do so. We want you to know that we are receiving limited amounts of the vaccine and are utilizing all that we have for the priority tiers identified by state authorities at this time. You can learn more about the vaccine timeline at https://coronavirus.idaho.gov/…/IdahoVaccineTimeline012…If you are interested in receiving the vaccine, visit https://phd3.idaho.gov/covid-19-vaccine-notification/ and complete the contact form. This will give you a notification when it is available in your area. We hope to have more information about Tier 2 vaccines and scheduling early next week.

COVID Vaccination Information- Update 1/23/2021

Are you curious about where you fall on the COVID Vaccination timeline? Did you know that Southwest District Health has all the information you need located on their website https://phd3.idaho.gov/covid19/#Vaccine? You can also call their Vaccine Hotline at (208)593-1412. By utilizing these great resources and not calling hospitals and clinics with general covid vaccination questions, you allow our staff and other healthcare workers the ability to do what they do best, care for our patients that need us. We continue to work with our County and City agencies to provide our community with access to these vaccinations when they are provided to us. As soon as we have more information to share about vaccinations for additional tier groups, we will post on our website, social media and in our local papers.

COVID Vaccination Information- Update 12/31/2020

We have received many calls from the community asking about the COVID vaccination and when it will be available to them. Here’s what we know:

The Idaho COVID Vaccine Advisory Committee (CVAC) was created to help determine the prioritization of the vaccine when it is in limited supply.  have created a tiered system identifying those that would have access to receiving the vaccination first. This was recommended and supported by our local health districts.

Healthcare personnel and long-term care facility residents fall into Tier 1, with essential workers falling Into Tier 2.

See the full breakdown here: https://coronavirus.idaho.gov/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/CVAC-Prioritization-for-HCP-and-Essential-Workers.pdf

Valor Health received 75 doses Pfizer vaccine last week from Southwest District Health and offered vaccinations to Tier 1 staff members and other healthcare personnel throughout the community. Valor is still awaiting confirmation for when the second Pfizer dose will arrive.

As for community vaccinations, Southwest District Health says COVID-19 vaccinations are not available for the general public at this time. Once Tier 1 participants have had their vaccination, Southwest District Health will begin providing the vaccine to Tier 2. Learn the latest information about the COVID vaccination schedule at https://phd3.idaho.gov/covid19/

COVID Vaccination Information- Update 12/18/2020

Today is an important day at Valor Health. We have begun to administer the first rounds of the COVID-19 Vaccination to Valor Employees and Front-Line Workers. Learn more about the vaccination at https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/covid-19/index.html

COVID-19 Unit Established at Valor Heath- Update 11/20/2020

In response to the surge of COVID patients needing hospital intervention and the limited healthcare capacity across the region, Valor Health has established a COVID corridor within the hospital. The unit will include 5 patient beds and anteroom to allow an environment for proper personal protective equipment donning and doffing. Patients admitted to the COVID unit will be considered moderate to severely symptomatic, but not critical. All patients in need of ICU or intubation care will continue to be transferred to appropriate facilities.

Urgent Care- Update 11/18/2020

To better care for our patients during the colder weather months, we have chosen to move our respiratory screening station indoors. We have dedicated some of our urgent care clinic rooms to care for symptomatic patients and have put into place additional safeguards to keep our patients and staff members safe.

This change allows us to care for all patients appropriately, but still keep our well-patients safe and distanced from ill patients. We have new filtration systems in place, complete infection prevention sanitation after each patient, and continue with our high standards of care, utilizing personal protection equipment to keep you and our staff safe.

We will continue to have you wait in your warm cars instead of coming inside our waiting rooms.

For additional information please call our clinic at (208) 365-6004.

Urgent care hours are Mon-Saturday 8am-8pm.

Valor Health Corona Virus- Update 11/13/2020

A Message to Our Community,

The impact of COVID-19 is seen throughout our state and within our own community. With rampant spread from community events and social gatherings, Valor Health is seeing an alarming spike in COVID-19 positive tests. As of today, we are at a record high 30-day positivity rate of 21.73%. Over the past weeks, we have seen an increase in needs for testing, are caring for sicker patients, and have had to make multiple COVID transfers of the patients to Treasure Valley facilities.
Not only are we seeing an increase in the community, we are also seeing more of our staff testing positive from community spread, leaving them unavailable to serve our community. We are seeing unprecedented fatigue and stress amongst our team members who are finding it increasingly difficult to manage the constant pressures that this pandemic has created.
We are alerting the community and pleading with you to do your part to protect your neighbors and yourself.
• Stay home if you are not feeling well.
• Do not send your children to school if they are unwell.
• If you have a sick family member in your household, know what to do and how to properly quarantine.
• #washyourhands
• #wearamasksk
• Practice #socialdistancing

We are passionate about serving our community members. To continue to be here to care for you, we are asking you to do your part.

COVID-19 Asymptomatic and Travel Testing- Update 11/2/2020

Due to a surge in cases and related testing demand in our community and limited testing supplies, Valor has decided to no longer offer travel-required COVID testing. Valor’s Screening Site will also limit rapid testing for asymptomatic patients to preserve these tests for first responders and other essential workers.  

Patients in need of travel-required or other asymptomatic testing should contact Cole Diagnostics, Primary Health, or other Treasure Valley facilities offering this service.

New Temporary Hours at URGENT CARE, Update 10/28/2020

Due to the current pandemic and increased demand for providers and staff, we have chosen to temporarily change our Urgent Care operating hours. We will continue to see patients Monday-Saturday, 8am-8pm, and will be closed on Sundays, until further notice. This change will take effect on November 1, 2020. For more information, please contact Valor Health Urgent Care at (208) 365-6004. For immediate medical care, Valor Health Emergency Department is available, 24/7/365

Healthcare Organizations Team Up to Urge Public to Get Flu Vaccine 9/23/2020

With Idaho’s COVID-19 outbreak continuing, local healthcare organizations including Valor Health, St Lukes, St Als, West Valley Medical, Primary Health, Saltzer Health, and Vibra, urge people to get the flu vaccine this fall. Without widespread immunizations, healthcare leaders fear people will not only get sick, but hospitals could be overwhelmed by patients both with the flu and coronavirus.

Dedicated to Keeping You Safe! – update 8/13/2020

We are working hard every day to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Here are a few things we are doing to ensure your safety:

CDC Update for Self-isolation Guide: caregivers, household members, and close contacts- update 7/23/2020

We recently learned of the updated CDC guidelines for Self-Isolation for non-healthcare workers.

The updated guidelines include these changes:

• A test-based strategy is no longer recommended to determine when to discontinue home isolation, except in certain circumstances.
• Symptom-based criteria were modified as follows: Changed from “at least 72 hours” to “at least 24 hours” have passed since last fever without the use of fever-reducing medications.
• Changed from “improvement in respiratory symptoms” to “improvement in symptoms” to address expanding list of symptoms associated with COVID-19.
• For patients with severe illness, duration of isolation for up to 20 days after symptom onset may be warranted. Consider consultation with infection control experts.
• For persons who never develop symptoms, isolation and other precautions can be discontinued 10 days after the date of their first positive RT-PCR test for SARS-CoV-2 RNA.

Download the updated guidelines here

Respiratory Illness Screening Location: New Hours of Operation, Update 7/22/2020

The Valor Health COVID-19 Testing and Respiratory Screening location at 1102 E Locust Street will now see patients 7 days a week, 8 am- 4 pm beginning July 23, 2020.

Self-isolation: Guide for caregivers, household members, and close contacts- update 7/21/2020

Awaiting COVID test results? Have a family member or close contact that tested positive? Learn what to do and how to prevent the spread of COVID-19 by following this isolation guide. https://www.valorhealth.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Covid-Education.pdf

Return to PHASE 2 Visitor Guidelines- update 7/11/2020

Due to the significant increase in COVID-19 cases in Gem County and surrounding areas this past week, Valor Health has chosen to return to PHASE 2 of our visitor guidelines. As of July 11, 2020, Valor Health will return to very limited visitation for patients in our hospital and clinics. Please review the full Phase 2 Guidelines. We also continue to require all patients and visitors to mask during their visit to Valor Health.

Proper Masking and Cleaning Education- update 6/26/2020

COVID-19 Testing for Surgery Patients- Update 6/16/2020

The Surgical Services department at Valor Health is requiring patients that are receiving total joint replacement surgery to be tested for COVID-19. Your surgical team will discuss all pre-surgery requirements. Rapid testing will be utilized for these patients. Patients will only be notified of positive test results.

Valor chooses to support ONE Idaho Pledge- Update 6/12/2020

As we continue to follow the recommendations of our state leadership, we have chosen to guide our community by example and accept the ONE Idaho Pledge. As a healthcare leader and local business,

We pledge to help keep Idaho’s economy open and build patient confidence by maintaining safe, six-foot physical distancing for patients, visitors and employees, limiting the number of people within our waiting areas, requiring masks while on Valor Health Campus, asking all people who are sick to stay home, and ensure a clean and hygienic environment.

Learn more about ONE Idaho here We invite all of our partners and community businesses and individuals to take the pledge.

Visitor Guidelines as per Rebounding Idaho recommendations beginning 6.13.2020- update 6/11/2020

Valor Health has updated our Visitor Guidelines that will go into effect on June 13, 2020. These guidelines will remain in effect until otherwise posted.

HOSPITAL

Inpatient – Limited Visitor Hours

• Visitors are allowed.
• Visiting hours are 8am-5pm, daily.
• Visitors must enter through the main hospital doors.
• Visitors may remove masks in patient rooms, but are required to wear masks in all other areas of the hospital.
• Visitors will practice social distancing inpatient rooms and sanitize hands upon entrance and exit of patient room and after touching personal items, the patient, or after eating.

Emergency – Limited Visitors

• Patients will be allowed up to 2 visitors, exceptions may be made on a case by case basis by clinical staff.
• Patients and visitors may wait in the waiting room but may be asked to wait in their cars if social distancing cannot be maintained.
• Only patients seeking emergency medical services may use the Emergency Entrance.

Laboratory and Imaging – Limited Visitors

• Exceptions include minors and patients needing assistance.
• Patients and visitors may wait in the waiting areas but may be asked to wait in their cars if social distancing cannot be maintained.

Surgery, Orthopedics, and Visiting Specialists (East Clinic) – Limited Visitors

• Exceptions include minors and patients needing assistance.
• Patients and visitors should enter through the front hospital doors.
• Patients and visitors may wait in the waiting areas but may be asked to wait in their cars if social distancing cannot be maintained.

CLINICS

Family Medicine (EMC) and Specialty (SMSC) – Limited Visitors

• Exceptions include minors and patients needing assistance.
• Patients and visitors may wait in the waiting areas but may be asked to wait in their cars if social distancing cannot be maintained.

Coronavirus Testing Cost- update 6/1/2020

As we continue to navigate the COVID-19 pandemic, a high-throughput technology has evolved to accommodate the increase in COVID testing. Here at Valor Health, we have chosen to utilize only the most accurate, FDA-approved, commercial COVID-19 testing methods available. Valor Health is charging for COVID-19 tests. For those who are insured, please verify plan coverage and member cost-share information with your health insurance company. Valor Health will charge $100.00 for COVID-19 PCR, high-throughput testing. Valor Health can help patients navigate payment plan arrangements, financial assistance and health coverage options. Please call us at (208) 365-3561 for more assistance.

Visitor Guidelines Phase 3- update 5/30/2020

As we continue to follow the Governor’s lead in rebounding Idaho, we have updated our visitor guidelines.

Inpatient Visitors– No Limitations Visitors are allowed, but may be limited at the discretion of Nursing Management. Visiting hours are 8am-5pm, daily. Visitors must enter through the main hospital doors.

Outpatient Visitors– Limited Visitors Exceptions include minors and patients needing assistance.

Emergency Visitors (including waiting area)– Limited Visitors Patients will be allowed up to 2 visitors, exceptions may be made on a case by case basis by clinical staff. No Visitors are allowed in waiting room. Patients may be asked to wait in their cars if social distancing cannot be maintained in the waiting room. Only patients seeking emergency medical services may use the Emergency Entrance.

Valor Health Service Hours- update 5/19/2020

We have recently extended our laboratory hours. All current service hours are listed below. For more service information or for questions, please call (208) 365-3561

• The Emergency Department is open every day, 24/7
• Urgent Care is open 7 days a week, 8am-8pm
• Family Medicine Clinic and Specialty Clinic- by appointment, in-person and now offering telemedicine.
• Respiratory Screening Tent is open Monday-Friday, 8am-7pm and Saturdays, 8am-5pm
• Laboratory Outpatient services are available Monday-Friday, 7am-8pm and Saturday, 8am-5pm
• Imaging Outpatient Services are available Monday-Friday, 7am-4pm and by appointment
• Infusion Services are available by appointment
• Surgical Services are available. Speak to your provider about surgery at Valor Health.

Visitor Guidelines Phase 2- update 5/14/2020

As Phase 2 begins May 16th, rotation of visitors to the inpatient (patient who stays in the hospital while under treatment) unit will be permitted.  Each patient may have 1 visitor at a time, but visitors may rotate to the bedside.  Before entering, each visitor will be screened and must wear a mask for the entire visit.  All visitors will be required to enter through the main hospital doors.  Visiting hours remain 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

Emergency Patients will be allowed 1 visitor, exceptions may be made on a case by case basis by clinical staff. Visitors will be masked, screened, and will be asked to follow handwashing guidelines set by staff. No patients or visitors will be allowed in the waiting room. Only patients seeking emergency medical services may use the Emergency Entrance.

Outpatient Clinics and Additional Services – We continue to ask that patients only have visitors when needing additional assistance or for minor patients.

Visitor Guidelines as per Rebounding Idaho recommendations- update 4/30/2020, 5/4/2020

Emergency Visitors: At this time, no visitors will be allowed in the Emergency Department and waiting area.  Exceptions will be made for end of life care, care of pediatrics, or at the discretion of the ED clinical staff.  Patients may be asked to wait in their car if no treatment rooms are readily available. Please speak to staff upon arrival for current guidelines. Only patients seeking Emergency Services are allowed to use the Emergency Entrance

Beginning May 1st, Valor Health will begin transitioning visitors back within the inpatient unit only.  Each inpatient will be allowed one (1) visitor. This visitor must be the same person throughout the duration of the encounter.  All visitors must enter through the main hospital doors.  Visitors will be screened and their temperature will be taken.  If screening criteria are not met or the visitor has a fever, they will not be allowed admittance.  Those visitors that pass their screening will be asked to wear a mask during the entire visit.  The visitor will be asked to use hand sanitizer upon entering a patient room, during their visit and upon leaving.  Visitors will be welcomed from 8:00 AM-5:00 PM, each day.  The visitor recommendations will continue to evolve as Valor Health plans to follow the Governor’s Rebounding Idaho recommendations.  We are developing updated visitor guidelines for our clinics and other outpatient services and will share more information when it is available.

Outpatient Clinics – No visitors are allowed in the clinics at this time, with limited exceptions, including to accompany children or adults needing assistance. 

Elective Surgery Reopening at Valor- update 4/24/2020

As the tide of the COVID-19 pandemic changes, Valor Health has begun evaluating and reinstating necessary medical services.  We have decided to re-open our surgical services department to perform elective procedures starting Monday, April 27, 2020. After evaluating recommendations from CMS and a Joint Statement published by the American College of Surgeons, American Society of Anesthesiologists, Association of PeriOperative Nurses, and American Hospital Association, we are confident we have the proper policies and procedures in place to provide a safe surgical environment to our community. We are taking extra precautions with our patients who may be needing an inpatient stay and we are performing phone screenings for COVID-19 on every patient that is scheduled for surgery.

Please know Valor Health has your safety and the safety of our staff as our number one priority when making these adjustments.  We appreciate your understanding and accommodations during this time. Should we see local, state, or national changes, we will adapt accordingly and will notify you as soon as possible.

If you have any questions or concerns, or if you would like to reschedule a canceled procedure, please feel free to contact us at (208) 901-3276

Patient and Visitor Protocol- update 4/24/2020

• Patients/visitors will be encouraged to present to all locations with a face-covering. Patients/visitors who do not have a face-covering will be provided a cloth mask to be worn before entry into the facility, while supplies last. Please keep masks for reuse.
• In addition to the patient and visitor screening guidelines already in place, Valor Health will be adding a temperature check as part of the screening process for all patients and visitors at all locations.

Universal Masking Protocol- update 4/23/2020

A universal masking policy is in effect for all staff and providers in buildings or areas where patient care is provided. This includes hospitals, clinics, and diagnostic areas.

Valor Health Service Hours- update 4/13/2020

We know that emergencies and needs for other necessary care don’t stop during a pandemic. We know that many people still need to have services and appointments at our clinics and hospital.  We have taken countless precautions to ensure those patients needing service can get those without fear.  Don’t let COVID-19 prevent you from seeking the care you require. Valor Health services are available for you and your families when you need us.

• The Emergency Department is open every day, 24/7
• Urgent Care is open 7 days a week, 8am-8pm
• Family Medicine Clinic and Specialty Clinic- by appointment, now offering telemedicine.
• Respiratory Screening Tent is open Monday-Friday, 8am-7pm and Saturdays, 8am-5pm
• Laboratory Outpatient services are available Monday-Friday, 7am-5pm
• Imaging Outpatient Services are available Monday-Friday, 7am-4pm and by appointment

Telemedicine Consent Form and Appointment Instruction- update 4/8/2020

Valor Health telemedicine appointments are available for our patients. Meet with your doctor virtually, from the comfort and safety of your own home. Learn more about telemedicine appointments and how easy it here. Patients who accept telemedicine services will need to review and complete the Consent to Receive Telemedince Services form.

Gem Community Message- update 4/6/2020

We are all in this together. Gem County and City agencies, and community partners are working together to spread the Safer at Home message. Will you do your part? Watch our Community Video

COVID-19 Community Spread – update 4/1/2020

Today Southwest District Health confirmed that Gem County has five total COVID-19 cases. There is now also confirmed community spread within Gem County….. Read More

Testing Criteria and Triage Tent- update 3/31/2020

We hear our community asking about COVID-19 testing and wanted to share some information regarding testing availability and criteria.  A respiratory triage nurse is available to answer your questions about symptoms and screenings, just call (208) 365-3561 and follow the COVID-19 prompts.

The Respiratory Illness Triage Tent (located at 1102 E Locust Street) is open Monday-Friday, 8am-7pm and Saturday 8am-5pm.

CDC Testing Criteria guidelines have recently changed to allow more testing:

• Presence of fever (above 100.4) and/or respiratory symptoms (e.g. cough, shortness of breath, tightness in the chest) and/or GI symptoms AND Contact with someone who has tested positive or
• Health care worker or
• Resident or recent discharge from a long-term care facility or
• Chronic Medical Condition (Diabetes, Heart Disease, Chronic Lung Disease, Chronic Kidney Disease) or
• Immune compromised (including pregnancy)

As of today, we have tested 36 people at Valor Health that have met these criteria.

As per https://coronavirus.idaho.gov/ there are currently 3 positive cases in Gem County.

Test results may take some time to come in. State lab results are taking 1-3 days and commercial labs are taking 2-4 days.

Throughout the country, agencies are working to provide more testing options and availability. If these opportunities become available to us, we will communicate updated testing information to you. We will continue to test high-priority patients at this time, following the guidelines listed. Given there is currently no treatment beyond your own immune system, we ask that patients with mild symptoms stay home, take precautions from spreading to others and take care of yourself. Here is a great reference for “taking care of yourself while sick” https://youtu.be/lPolorAsk4M or Healthwise.org.  If you need additional guidance or care, please reach out to us, as we are here for you. Thank you for your understanding and patience as we serve our community during this difficult time.

Outpatient Laboratory Service Hours- update 3/28/2020

Valor Health Outpatient Lab service hours have changed due to COVID-19.  Hours for outpatient lab services (labs that are ordered through primary care and specialty clinics) will now be open Monday-Friday, 7am-5pm. Lab services will continue to be available for Urgent Care, Emergency Department, and Med/Surg Patients.

All patients will be screened before receiving VH services and upon entry of any VH location.

First Gem County COVID-19 Case Detected…– update 3/27/2020

Triage Tent Hours– update 3/27/2020

The Respiratory Illness Triage Tent located at 1102 E Locust Street (Valor Health Urgent Care) will be open tomorrow, Saturday 8am-5pm.

Valor Health No Visitor Protocol- update 3/26/2020

Valor Health has instituted a highly restrictive visitation protocol to prevent the potential spread of COVID-19. This action is consistent with public health and CDC guidelines and in the best interest of our colleagues, patients, providers, and community.

Across the Valor Health organization, a ‘NO VISITOR’ procedure will be enforced.
There are limited exceptions to this protocol.
All visitors will be screened for the following:
· Have you had any signs of a respiratory infection? Cough, Fever (100.4+), Shortness of Breath?
· In the last 14 days have been in contact with a confirmed or investigated case of COVID-19?
· Have you traveled within the last 14 days outside of Idaho or the US or in areas with sustained community transmission?

Patient Exceptions Include ( All visitors must be over the age of 14 )
• OB Patients- May have ONE significant other in the room. May have ONE
additional birth support person for labor and delivery only. No rotation of family members is allowed.
• Pediatric Patients – May have ONE parent, guardian, or adult advocate in the room. Rotation is allowed for parents only.
• Critically Ill Patients – May have ONE designated support person at the bedside or in the room. No rotation of family members will be allowed.
• End of Life Patients – May have TWO support persons at the bedside. Rotation of only immediate family members will be allowed.
• Patients with a durable power of attorney or legal guardian that don’t meet the above criteria – ONLY that person can be in the patient’s room.
• Clinic, Lab, or Radiology Patients- If patient requires assistance, one support person may escort the patient to and from the modality waiting areas.

Telemedicine / Virtual Appointments at Valor Health EMC and Specialty Medicine- update 3/25/2020

The Governor of Idaho has issued a Stay at Home order for the State of Idaho except for necessary services, with some medical care being a necessary service. Valor Health is ready to be able to continue to care for patients while focusing on patient, staff and provider safety but it may look a little different than it does today.  With the world of technology, we are standing up “virtual care” as an option for patient care visits with our Family Medicine providers and Specialty/Surgeons that can be done in the comfort of your own home.

What does this mean for our existing patients? We are reviewing schedules and evaluating if an appointment/visit can be done virtually if patient needs to be assessed in person and the urgency of the visit.  We will continue to be open and seeing patients in our clinic(s) based on urgency of the situation and needing to see patients in person for the best medical care.  For others, you may receive a call asking to visit with the provider “virtually” and we will talk you through how to make that work.

We are still accepting new patients. We will continue to accept new patients and evaluate based on the criteria above if need to be seen in person or evaluated “virtually”.  Call (208) 365-3561 to learn more about the services we offer or to speak to our friendly staff.

Reminder:  Urgent Care will continue to see walk-in patients 7 days a week and provide screening/testing for “respiratory illness” patients in the Triage Tent (in front of Urgent Care at 1102 E. Locust St.) on Monday thru Friday, 8 am to 7 pm and Saturday, 8 am to 5 pm.

Valor Health Elective Procedures- update 3/23/2020

In the best interest of staff, patients, and our community, Valor Health has made the decision to suspend most elective procedures, effective immediately. The decision was made by Valor Health Administration and medical staff Monday morning as a proactive measure to preserve medical equipment and staff resources.

There are certain procedures that the surgeons feel are more urgent and will require immediate attention. This is at the discretion of your surgeon, so please have that conversation with them at your next appointment.

Should you already have a procedure scheduled with your surgeon, please wait for a phone call from the Surgical Services Manager regarding your procedure and your options going forward. You may contact the Surgical Services Department at (208) 901-3276 if you have any questions or concerns about your upcoming surgery.

CDC and CMS recommend limiting and suspending elective surgeries and procedures in order to conserve PPE and ventilator resources, as well as limit exposure to patients and staff. https://www.cms.gov/files/document/31820-cms-adult-elective-surgery-and-procedures-recommendations.pdf

Triage Tent Hours- Update 3/21/2020

The Respiratory Illness Triage Tent will be open this Sunday, March 22, 2020, from 8 am – 3 pm at 1102 E Locust Street, Emmett (Valor Health Urgent Care/ Emmett Medical Center).

Evaluation of Elective Procedures and Routine Ambulatory Visits- update 03/20/2020

Valor Health continues to collaborate closely with regional health systems, working together to care for our population.  A key component of that effort is centered on proactively preserving medical supplies (personal protective equipment, masks, gloves, etc.).   Currently, Valor Health is evaluating elective procedures and routine ambulatory visits at Valor Health facilities according to federal recommendations. https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cms-releases-recommendations-adult-elective-surgeries-non-essential-medical-surgical-and-dental

We are currently not in need of donations, but if you have questions or would like more information about donating medical supplies during this time, please contact community@valorhealth.org.

Respiratory Illness Screening Hours Extended and New Car Waiting Area for Surgery and Specialty Clinic- update 3/19/2020

Extended Respiratory Illness Screening Hours: Based on the positive response, from patients and the community, in providing screening and testing (if applicable) for respiratory illnesses, as well as preventing potential spread of respiratory infections to other patients,  we are extending hours for the respiratory illness screening tent in front of Urgent Care this Friday and Saturday. 

Updated Hours:

• Friday, March 20^th– 8am-7pm
• Saturday, March 21^st– 8am-5pm
• Sunday, March 22nd – 8am-3pm
• Monday- Thursday- 8am-7pm

Location:  Valor Health Urgent Care/Emmett Medical Center, 1102 E Locust St., Emmett

Car Waiting Area for Surgery and Specialty Clinic: In order to maintain social distancing and reduce potential exposure in our waiting area at the Surgery and Specialty Clinic, we ask that patients wait in their vehicles in the Specialty Clinic parking lot.  We will have someone to greet you when you pull in, complete your paperwork and let you know when we can have you go in to see the doctor without having to wait in the waiting room.  All patients will continue to be screened for fever, cough, and risk factors.  If you have a fever and new or worsening cough, we would ask to reschedule and/or be screened.  Calling ahead is appreciated.

Location:  Valor Health Surgical and Specialty Clinic, 1024 E Locust St., Emmett (208) 365-6004

Triage Tent- update 3/18/2020

Beginning 3/17/2020, Valor Health established a Respiratory Illness Triage Tent, located at 1102 E Locust Street.

Patients that are experiencing fever, new or worsening cough, sore throat, difficulty breathing AND had known exposure to a confirmed COVID-19 patient or travel to highly infected areas OR is a healthcare worker OR is a resident of a long-term care facility should present at the tent for screening and testing (if necessary). Testing is available for patients meeting established CDC criteria.

*These criteria are based on most current CDC Guidelines as well as consistency with community approach and are subject to change based on need in the community and/or availability of testing.

Based on limitations in testing resources, we are following the CDC Guidelines for testing** at this point in time. 

Clinical Features		Epidemiologic Risk
Fever or signs/symptoms of lower respiratory illness (e.g., cough or shortness of breath)	AND	Any person, including healthcare personnel, who has had close contact with a laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 patient within 14 days of symptom onset
Fever and signs/symptoms of a lower respiratory illness (e.g., cough or shortness of breath) requiring hospitalization	AND	A history of travel from affected geographic areas, within 14 days of symptom onset
Fever with severe acute lower respiratory illness (e.g., pneumonia, ARDS (acute respiratory distress syndrome) requiring hospitalization and without an alternative explanatory diagnosis (e.g., influenza).	AND	No identified source of exposure

**Will I have to pay to be tested for coronavirus?  – update 4/10/2020

Valor Health will charge $51.33 for COVID-19 tests. For those who are insured, please verify plan coverage and member cost-share information with your health insurance company. We will continuously provide updates on our site as more developments and information are released from government agencies. We appreciate your patience during this national emergency.

Triage Tent– update 3/17/2020

There are many conditions circulating in our communities right now, i.e. influenza, strep throat, allergies, that have similar symptoms to Coronavirus.  To be extra cautious in preventing the spread of infection to higher-risk patients e.g. elderly, pregnant and those with chronic diseases in our clinics and in the community, we have a number of options to protect you and others.

1. If you have fever, cough, sneezing, sore throat and not improving or had known exposure to influenza, strep or COVID-19 contacts or area or travel, encourage to call 208-365-3561 and ask to speak to Triage Nurse prior to coming in person.  There is a triage nurse available 24/7.
2. We have established a “respiratory illness” triage tent for screening and testing (as applicable – see clarification on testing recommendations below).  This is located in the front parking lot of Urgent Care/ Emmett Medical Center at 1102 E Locust Street.   We ask anyone arriving in person with fever, cough, sneezing, and sore throat to be triaged in the tent.  Please note: If you arrive needing medical care, you will be directed appropriately (i.e.: immediate attention to ED).  If you present and don’t meet the criteria for testing, you will be sent home to conserve resources.

The triage tent will be staffed starting Wednesday, March 18^th from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.  Monday through Thursday and 8 am to 5 p.m. Fridays.  As of now, the triage tent will not be open on the weekends.  We will look to expand/or contract these hours based on demand and need.

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Temporary Visitor Precautions- update 3/16/2020

For the protection of our patients and staff, Valor Health has enacted a limited visitor policy across our campus, effective immediately.  Main entrances and emergency department doors will remain open.  Other access points may be locked.  All exits will be accessible.  Visitors will be screened by staff on-hand at entrances. Visitors will be limited to the following:

• Essential visitors only
• Maximum of one (1) visitor per patient
• No visitor under the age of 14
• Visitors wishing to wait for patients are advised to do so in their personal vehicle