Like most health centers right now, Mendocino Coast Clinics (MCC) is doing everything possible to provide top-quality health care while preparing for a potential surge in patient visits caused by the COVID-19 epidemic.

“As of today, we still have no confirmed cases here on the coast or anywhere in Mendocino County, but common sense tells us it’s coming,” said MCC Executive Director Lucresha Renteria. “At this time, we are providing essential MCC services. We have modified the seating in all MCC lobbies to allow for social distancing. This is an evolving situation, so things will change. Effective Thursday, March 19, the dental clinic will reduce services and behavioral health appointments will move to telephone visits as much as possible. We will continue to evaluate other uses of telehealth and telephone visits for other MCC services.”

Renteria asks that patients with fever, cough, and/or trouble breathing who want to see an MCC medical provider call us first at 964-1251. This allows nurses to meet patients in their cars rather than having them come into the health center where they could infect others. It also allows staff to use protective gear such as gloves, masks, and gowns before interacting with the patient. MCC has a limited number of testing kits and are evaluating patients to test those who meet the criteria. No patient will be denied testing due to inability to pay.

MCC is dedicated to serving all people on the coast, including the most vulnerable populations such as the elderly and the homeless. To do so, it is imperative that healthcare workers remain healthy. Renteria urges people to comply with Public Health directives to limit face-to-face contact with others as much as possible, to respect social distancing, to engage in hand washing and other hygiene recommendations like coughing into tissues, and to continue to stay informed as the situation evolves.

For the latest Mendocino County Public Health coronavirus updates, visit www.mendocinocounty.org/community/novel-coronavirus. To schedule a medical appointment at MCC, call 964-1251.

Click here to visit our COVID-19 page