adminOn January 20, 2020, AtlantiCare Regional Medical Center in Galloway Township reported its first confirmed case of COVID-19 in Atlantic County. The patient, whose identity was not disclosed due to privacy laws, was being treated at the Mainland Campus. Hospital officials assured the public that all necessary precautions were being taken to prevent the spread of the virus. They emphasized adherence to guidelines set by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the New Jersey Department of Health.
In the following weeks, AtlantiCare implemented enhanced safety measures, including visitor restrictions and the cancellation of elective surgeries, to mitigate the virus’s spread. The hospital also increased its testing capabilities and prepared additional resources to manage potential surges in cases.
As the pandemic progressed, AtlantiCare’s healthcare team faced unprecedented challenges. Despite these challenges, the hospital reported a 90% survival rate for hospitalized COVID-19 patients through the first three patient surges, surpassing the national average of 80.2% during the same period.
The first confirmed case marked the beginning of a long and challenging journey for both healthcare providers and the community. AtlantiCare’s response to the pandemic highlighted the resilience and dedication of its staff and the importance of community collaboration in overcoming public health crises.
