08/18/2021
Our Policies
OrthoNebraska has always been focused on preventing the spread of infection. We continue to actively monitor, prepare and work to control and prevent the spread of COVID-19. In doing so, we have implemented several changes to ensure the safety and wellbeing of our patients, guests, staff, providers and community. While this may be an inconvenience, safety has always been our top priority.
This information will be updated as the situation locally, or the situation at OrthoNebraska, changes. For the latest on general information regarding Coronavirus (COVID-19), we suggest the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) or calling the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services at (402) 552-6645.
Thank you for your understanding, and for doing your part to keep our community safe.
Jump to Updates
For Spanish-speaking or visually impaired:
- Spanish (Espanol) Speaking Visitor Screening Guide
- Outlook Enrichment Hotline for Blind and Visually Impaired
Information for Patients & Visitors Overview
- Most patients and visitors should expect to wear a face covering.
- Screenings will be performed at the entrances and/or access desks at each OrthoNebraska facility. Screenings include having your temperature taken and answering the following questions: (If you answer ‘yes’ to either of the below at this time, please call (402) 609-3000 to reschedule your appointment. If you answer ‘yes’ on site, you will most likely be asked to reschedule.)
- Did you have close contact with a person under investigation for COVID-19 within the last 14 days? Close contact is defined as being within approximately 6 feet or within the same room/care area for a prolonged period of time while not wearing any type of protective equipment (such as a mask), and/or having direct contact with infectious secretions (such as being coughed on) while not wearing any personal protective mask.
- Do you have a fever, consistent cough, sore throat, shortness of breath and/or loss of taste or smell?
- While highly discouraged, travel prior to an appointment or visit will be allowed. Whenever possible, we ask that patients and visitors limit their exposure outside of the household seven (7) days prior to their scheduled appointment. To be clear, while not recommended due to risk of transmission, travel by mass transit (plane, train, cruise, etc.) will be allowed prior to the visit.
- If you are apprehensive or cautious about in-person appointments, we encourage you to utilize our virtual care program. OrthoNebraska offers virtual care for physical therapy, rheumatology, and orthopedics – allowing you to visit with a provider without having to come into a facility.
- Our Emergency Room and Orthopedic Urgent Care remain open seven days a week to care for unexpected injuries and pains.
Mask Policy
OrthoNebraska continues to require masks in most of our facilities. However, with lower levels of community infection and transmission, as of late March, patients, guests, and team members may be able to remove their mask in some areas. All patients and visitors should still plan to wear a mask. Individuals who are most comfortable wearing a mask throughout their visit, as well as those who are unvaccinated, are encouraged to wear a mask.
Virtual Care
OrthoNebraska has a virtual care program in order to provide the same level of high quality care as an office visit while respecting social distancing and other guidelines.
Using video chat technologies, our team can effectively conduct an otherwise normal office visit (without a physical exam) by directing and observing motion and pain. Should an X-ray or other diagnostic exams be needed, our care team will work with you to schedule a time at your convenience, including conducting these tests during off-hours. Additionally, if you are comfortable, family members and other caregivers are welcome to attend your virtual visit as well.
I’m interested in a virtual care visit
I need help getting ready for my VIRTUAL care VISIT
Visitor Policy
We understand a modified visitor policy may be an inconvenience. However, the safety of our patients, healthcare workers and the community is our number one priority.
Effective May 6, one continually masked and screened visitor is allowed per patient in all areas, including our clinics, hospital and emergency department.
For patients staying overnight at OrthoNebraska Hospital, one healthy visitor will be allowed in per patient after they have been assigned a room on the second floor. This individual will be screened upon entry, must wear a mask at all times, and cannot leave the patient’s room. Visiting hours are limited to Monday through Friday from 7:00AM-7:00PM and Saturday & Sunday from 9:00AM-5:00PM. Any visitor under the age of 19 will not be permitted. As always, proper hand hygiene is strongly encouraged in all areas.
We would be happy to discuss your personal needs prior to your arrival. Please feel free to reach out to your care team or call (402) 609-3000.
Staff Protocol
In addition to taking temperatures at the start of their shift, all OrthoNebraska team members have been offered a COVID-19 vaccination and are required to self-screen daily for COVID-19 symptoms. Should one of our team members exhibit any symptoms, they have been asked to refrain from coming to any of our facilities. Additionally, all patient-facing team members are required to wear a mask while at work.
Outlook Enrichment Hotline for Blind and Visually Impaired
It can be overwhelming to find the resources you need during this challenging time, especially if you have poor or no vision. If you know someone who can’t see or can’t see very well, call Outlook Enrichment’s COVID-19 Help Line at (531) 365-5059 for assistance from people who understand vision challenges and want to help. This line is staffed 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM Monday through Friday. Messages received outside of these times will be answered within 24 hours. These resources can also be found at outlookne.org/covidhelp.
