As Coronavirus cases in Iowa increase and the first related death in the state is confirmed, it's becoming more difficult for patients with all illnesses to be seen by medical personnel.

To alleviate the backlog, UnityPoint announces it is temporarily turning one of its urgent care clinics into a facility exclusively dedicated to treating and caring for patients with respiratory illnesses. This step was taken to make sure those with possible symptoms of COVID-19 are able to be seen and to conserve the available PPE (personal protective equipment) among UnityPoint facilities.

West Side Urgent Care, 2375 Edgewood Rd. SW is becoming this exclusive Respiratory Illness Center in Cedar Rapids. This clinic will ONLY be seeing patients with respiratory symptoms until further notice. For those with non-respiratory medical issues, UnityPoint Clinic Urgent Care Marion (2992 7th Ave.) and UnityPoint Clinic Express in Hiawatha (1940 Blairs Ferry Rd.) are both staying open to serve and care for them.

To make sure patients are seen at the right facility, the following will happen: it is suggested patients who think they have these symptoms call first, either their local urgent care or primary care provider. When any patient calls a UnityPoint clinic in the Cedar Rapids area, they will be screened over the phone for symptoms that include fever, cough, and difficulty breathing. Patients will be directed what to do, which will generally be to contact their Primary Care Provider.

[Via CBS2]

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