Fargo Cass Public Health urges residents to utilize community resources during COVID-19 pandemic

Fargo Cass Public Health (FCPH) remains committed to providing education, support and resources as part of our response to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. We recognize many community members may be experiencing increased levels of stress, anxiety or fear in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. Fargo Cass Public Health reminds residents that there are a number of COVD-19-related healthcare and mental health resources available in our community.

FCPH Director Desi Fleming stated, “It is important during this time of uncertainty, that we not only focus on our physical health but also practice self-care and stay in-tune to our mental well-being. Reach out to family or friends for support often, and if need be, seek professional care for mental health.”

In an effort to slow the spread of the virus, area medical facilities have expanded their telehealth services to those without a regular physician in order to assist residents during this public health emergency.

• Essentia Health provides a COVID-19 Hotline which can be reached by calling 1.833.494.0836.  Essentia Health is also offering online e-visits for COVID-19 screening, free of charge at essentiahealth.org/COVID-19.
• My Sanford Nurse, a program through Sanford Health, allows residents to reach an experienced Sanford Health nurse over the phone. This service can be reached by calling either 701.234.5000 or 1.800.821.5167. Sanford Health also provides e-visits for COVID-19 care in Minnesota, North Dakota and South Dakota. For more information, visit https://www.sanfordhealth.org/conditions-diseases/coronavirus-disease-2019-covid-19.

Medicare has also temporarily expanded its coverage of telehealth services to respond to the current Public Health Emergency. These services expand the current telehealth covered services, to improve access and interact with a range of providers.

Those interested in local community resources or in need of support are encouraged to contact FirstLink’s 24-hour Helpline by dialing 2-1-1 or 701.235.SEEK (7335).

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention also provides a number of resources related to emotional health, coping and stress: https://emergency.cdc.gov/coping/selfcare.asp.

FCPH also reminds the community to rely on credible sources of information related to COVID-19, including ND Response, North Dakota Department of Health and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.