Important Notice About Coronaviris and COVID-19

To Our Patients:

As your healthcare provider, we value—and are committed to—your health and the health of your family. We also understand that you have concerns about the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak, which has now been designated a global pandemic.

At all times, we prioritize optimal health, safety and infection control. During this outbreak we are continuing to do so with special vigilance and focus.

We are closely monitoring the evolving situation, carefully following the guidelines of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and taking specific measures to protect you, your family, our employees, and the communities we serve. These include special precautions, such as intensive cleaning of our office and monitoring patients and staff for potential signs of illness.

As things change, we will adjust our policies and practices to respond appropriately to new developments. At the same time, we will keep you informed about best infection-control practices and what you need to know to keep yourself and your loved ones safe.

How can you limit your exposure to the virus?

The best way to prevent coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is to avoid being exposed to the virus, which at this time is thought to spread mainly person-to-person. How do you do that?

  • Wash your hands with soap and water – frequently and for at least 20 seconds each time
  • If soap and water are not available, use hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol
  • Avoid touching your face
  • Maintain “social distancing” between others (about six feet apart)
  • Avoid contact with people who are sick
  • Cover your mouth and nose if you cough or sneeze (and immediately wash or sanitize your hands)

What should you do if you’re sick?

  • Stay home except to get medical care – avoid public areas, transportation, events, etc.
  • If you’re around or caring for others, wear a facemask (N95)
  • Cover coughs and sneezes, wash/sanitize hands, and clean and disinfect all high-touch surfaces daily
  • Monitor symptoms – seek prompt medical care if symptoms worsen
  • Call your doctor before seeking care, including for appointments scheduled for other reasons
  • Call 911 if you have a medical emergency

Rest assured that we are taking this outbreak, and our responsibility as your trusted provider, seriously. We will continue evaluating developments and taking appropriate actions to reduce exposure and keep you up-to-date.

A MESSAGE FROM THE CEO

In response to the ongoing developments of the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) outbreak, we have put a number of precautions in place to protect the safety of those we serve, as well as our staff and community at large. Please know all Gateway Rehab locations remain open, continue to accept patients, and have established the following guidelines until further notice.

Evaluations will only be conducted over the phone. Walk-in assessments have been suspended. We are screening patients over the phone regarding symptoms, recent travel and exposure. Family visitation has been suspended. We have been coordinating alternative options to still provide family interaction throughout treatment. Items permitted to be dropped off for an individual in a residential program will be limited to money, cigarettes and hygiene products. Drop offs must be scheduled between 12 – 8 p.m. daily. 12-Step meetings will only be provided on-site, no outside meetings will be permitted. Outpatient programs will be provided through telehealth, continuing to conduct morning, afternoon, and evening groups. Sessions will be held at a frequency consistent with every level of care. Individual sessions, case management and MAT management may also be provided through telehealth.

We understand how difficult and uncertain these times can be. At any stage of recovery, isolation has the potential to challenge one's sobriety. Gateway Rehab remains mission-focused in providing everyone we serve with the tools to be successful in their recovery, traditional or personalized. We will continue to monitor and communicate recommendations provided by the PA Department of Health and the Centers for Disease Control. We appreciate your help to take the appropriate steps to support everyone’s well-being, and allow us to continue to provide proven, quality addiction treatment in western Pennsylvania.

Paul Bacharach
President and Chief Executive Officer

Gateway Rehab