Frequently Asked Questions: COVID-19

Are visitors allowed?

No visitors will be permitted unless the patient falls into one of the following categories:

  • Patients Under 18 (2 Parents/Caregivers Allowed)
  • Birthing Center (1 Support Person Allowed)
  • Patients in Need of Assistance (1 Caregiver Allowed)
  • Emergency Department and Patients Having Surgery (1 Visitor Allowed)
  • Outpatient Surgical Patients (1 Support Person Allowed)
  • End of Life Care (Limit 2 Visitors at Any One Time)
  • OB Ultrasound and OB Appointments (1 Support Person Allowed)
  • Infusion and Oncology Patients (No visitors. Patients who need assistance will be taken to the location by an employee of the respective department).
  • Visiting Specialist Clinic (1 Visitor Allowed)

Do I need to wear a mask?

In order to reduce the risk of transmission of COVID-19, Pella Regional Health Center and its family of medical clinics located in Bussey, Pella, Knoxville, Ottumwa, Prairie City, and Sully will ask patients over the age of two to wear a fabric mask or homemade face covering to any medical appointment. If patients do not have face coverings or fabric masks one will be provided by Pella Regional for use during the visit. Guidance from the CDC encourages the public to wear face coverings in places like clinics and hospitals, where it’s not always practical to maintain six feet of separation between individuals.

What appointments or procedures am I required to get tested for COVID-19?

All patients scheduled for elective procedures, C-sections, or inductions will receive a COVID-19 test prior to the surgery/procedure. If a patient tests positive, the procedure will be postponed. In the case of a positive test for a C-section or induction, additional precautions will be taken during care.

What are entrance hours for the hospital and clinics?

Entrance Hours:

  • Emergency Department (Entrance 2) Always open
  • Pella Medical Clinic (Entrance 3) Monday through Saturday 8 am to 7 pm and Sunday 12 pm to 7 pm.
  • Wound Care and Cardiac Services (Entrance 7) Monday through Friday 7:30 am to 5 pm. This entrance is only open to Wound Care and Cardiac Services patients.
  • Specialty/Oncology/Infusion, Rheumatology Clinics (Entrance 4) Monday through Friday 8 am to 5 pm. 
  • Main Entrance (Entrance 1) Open Monday through Friday from 6:30 am to 5 pm.
  • Medical Clinics in Ottumwa, Knoxville, Bussey, Sully and Prairie City: Monday through Friday 8 am to 5 pm

Should I be worried for my safety to receive care at Pella Regional?

You are our friends, family, neighbors and our patients. We take your safety seriously while also continuing to provide compassionate care that you have trusted since 1960.

We have taken extra safety precautions to ensure low exposure to COVID-19 while visiting our facilities. Visit our Serious About Safety page for more information.

Is there an option for receiving care without coming into the facility?

A Virtual Visit allows a patient to meet with their local Pella Regional primary care provider through a secure, HIPAA compliant video chat without leaving their home. Patients can call their provider’s office to find out if Virtual Visits are appropriate for their condition. Your provider may also be reaching out to you to schedule a Virtual Visit. Visit our Virtual Visit page for more information.

I am pregnant. Where can I find more information on COVID-19 and pregnancy?

This is an exciting time and you may have questions about how COVID-19 may impact your check-ups and delivery plans. Here are some common questions and answers about pregnancy, delivery and staying healthy and safe at Pella Regional.