Respiratory Illnesses Surge: Essentia Health Offers Timely Care

As respiratory illnesses rise across the region, Essentia Health is stepping up to provide timely care options for those in need. With a significant increase in influenza cases, health officials stress the importance of utilizing appropriate care pathways to alleviate pressure on emergency departments.

Increasing Respiratory Illnesses

According to the Minnesota Department of Health, over 5,100 cases of influenza were reported statewide as of December 21, 2023. This marks a sharp increase from fewer than 1,900 cases just two weeks earlier. The current flu season is proving to be particularly challenging, compounded by high rates of COVID-19 and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), which are straining healthcare resources.

Essentia Health has observed that about 15% of patient visits to its emergency department in Fargo over the past week were related to influenza. To address this surge, the healthcare provider is encouraging patients to seek care that aligns with their symptoms, thereby ensuring emergency services remain available for critical cases.

Choosing the Right Care

Research indicates that approximately one in three visits to emergency departments are for non-emergency conditions. To mitigate this, Essentia Health is promoting various same-day and virtual care options available through its MyChart patient portal. These alternatives include:

• 24/7 Video Visit On Demand: Access immediate care from anywhere for urgent needs.
• E-Visit: Online consultations available around the clock for common health issues.
• Primary Care or Virtual Video Visit: Ideal for addressing common illnesses like colds, flu, sore throats, and mild rashes.
• Urgent Care: For symptoms such as low-grade fevers, migraines, or persistent coughs.

In cases of severe symptoms such as breathing difficulties, chest pain, or sudden numbness, patients are advised to go directly to the emergency department.

For those unsure of where to begin, Essentia offers a Nurse Care Line at 800-714-4646 and resources through the MyChart platform. Additionally, an online tool is available to help patients identify immediate care options based on their symptoms.

Christie Erickson, a nurse practitioner and associate chief medical officer for Essentia’s East Market, stated, “We have a number of ways to ensure our patients receive the right level of care, based on their symptoms. These include same-day options so we can get you in right away.”

As the flu season progresses, Essentia Health aims to keep the community healthy and reduce hospitalizations through these accessible healthcare options. By encouraging timely and appropriate care choices, the organization hopes to alleviate burdens on emergency services and provide swift assistance to those in need.