Desert Radiology Emphasizes the Importance of Vaccines for National Immunization Awareness Month

August is National Immunization Awareness Month and at Desert Radiology, we are continuing to encourage our team members to get vaccinated against COVID-19. As the number of cases, hospitalizations and deaths continue to rise due to the COVID-19 Delta variant, especially among unvaccinated persons, we believe it is critical that we protect our patients who may be vulnerable and immunocompromised. 

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), as of August 5, 2021, there were more than 520,000 confirmed COVID-19 cases among healthcare personnel in the nation, and just over 1,600 deaths. Medical workers across the nation and globe are more susceptible to contracting COVID-19 than the general public, and so it becomes critical to the vitality of our medical system that these workers safeguard themselves. As frontline providers, we must heed the scientific evidence and do everything possible, including putting our patients’ health and well-being first to deliver safe, quality care

As health care leaders and as a pillar in our community, we hope to set an example and motivate not only our team members, but all of Southern Nevada to receive the vaccination to safeguard their health and that of those around them. According to the CDC, 41.6% of Clark County is fully vaccinated. We hope to see an increase in these numbers by the end of 2021.

By continuing to encourage vaccinations among our team members, we hope to further strengthen our COVID-19 protocols designed to lessen the chances of transmission. As the leading outpatient imaging practice with 11 facilities across Southern Nevada, we remain committed to following the CDC’s guidelines and watching our field closely to ensure that we are always on top of and implementing the best practices and safety measures possible. 

The following protocols and policies are currently in place at all of our facilities:

• COVID-19 screenings of all patients and team members including temperature checks

• Masks are required for anyone within the facility

• Social distancing will be enforced within all areas of the facility

• Virtual waiting rooms – patients may be asked to wait inside their vehicle following appointment check-ins

• Enhanced routine cleaning of all waiting room furniture and exam room equipment

As scientists and researchers strengthen and evolve the COVID-19 response, Desert Radiology will stay committed to those advancements to help protect the community in which we live and serve, acknowledging individual stances and beliefs. We encourage everyone to educate themselves on the importance of being vaccinated.