Newman Regional Health administrators are pleased with the initial results of a monoclonal antibody infusion treatment in place since late last month.
CEO Bob Wright, who received an infusion on Wednesday after developing COVID-19 over the past week, says the treatment essentially blunts the virus receptors from getting into cells and stops the virus from replicating.
Close to 30 vials have been used so far with no hospitalizations afterward. Newman Regional Health is currently offering the infusions Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, but Wright says the hospital is looking to expand that schedule.
Newman Regional Health is also enjoying a boost with staff after additional contract labor came on board over the past week. Wright says the workers will provide additional support for current nursing employees and will let the hospital continue preparations for additional surges in patients if that happens as expected before the end of the year.
As part of an interview on KVOE’s Morning Show on Thursday, Wright also thanked businesses, churches, community groups and individuals who have supported hospital staff with donations, either as part of standalone efforts or through other ventures like the Adopt a Healthcare Hero program through Emporia Main Street.
