TeamHealth Announces Protocols and Preparation for Swine Flu



TeamHealth Medical Call Center (THMCC) announced its preparation strategy for increased calls related to H1N1 influenza or “swine flu.”  The call center’s patient triage protocols specific to influenza have been enhanced, and new symptom-based guidelines have been implemented.

“Information is the first line of defense in H1N1, and providing a communications resource is not only important for patients and a concerned public, but can also relieve the increased demands placed upon healthcare providers,” stated Alan Taylor, senior vice president of operations for THMCC.

THMCC’s enhanced protocols were developed in accordance with the National Strategic Plan for Emergency Department Management of Outbreaks of Novel H1N1 Influenza for Health Information Call Centers.  New symptom guidelines have been incorporated into the telephone triage process and are being distributed to the healthcare clients of THMCC.  A fact sheet is also available to callers upon request.

THMCC is one of only 34 medical call centers in the nation accredited by the Utilization Review Accreditation Commission, an independent, nonprofit organization that is well known as a leader in promoting healthcare quality through its accreditation and certification programs.

More information is available at 888-203-1118.