Sawtooth Mountain Clinic.  Photo: SMC

“We are so proud of the community response to COVID-19 and it demonstrates Cook County’s incredible resilience and ability to adapt to change in these uncertain times,” said Sawtooth Mountain Clinic CEO Kate Surbaugh, “We want to thank everyone for helping to keep the community in good health by following the recommended steps to keep everyone safe.”

 Sawtooth Mountain Clinic CEO Kate Surbaugh.  Photo: SMC

Community members with health concerns are asked to call SMC first before visiting its facilities.  Describe your symptoms to SMC staff and they will advise you on the best next steps to keep you safe and still address your health issues.  Many health issues can be addressed by SMC doctors and other caregivers via telemedicine.  Importantly, this includes behavioral health assistance that should continue in this time of uncertainly.

 “It is understandable that people may be feeling new levels of stress and anxiety that might come from uncertainty, confinement and loneliness.  Those feelings can exacerbate underlying physical and mental health problems,” said Dr. Paul Terrill, SMC’s Medical Director, “But do not ignore changing conditions and feelings.  Reach out and just call us.  We are here for you.  Some times the best medicine is just to talk to a friendly voice to advise you on what to do about how you are feeling.”

 Medical Director Dr. Paul Terrill.  Photo: SMC

“We are so inspired by the efforts in our community to help each other in these difficult times,” said Surbaugh, “You can continue to help by calling your local family members, neighbors and friends to spread the message on how to take care of themselves and each other.  Remind them to keep their health top of mind and reach out to SMC if they are not feeling well.  Continue to do what Cook County community members have always done – which is to look out for one another.”

SMC urges community members to stay informed and engaged on public health announcements and guidance. Visit Cook County, MN’s Coronavirus Response Hub cookcountycovid19.org for current and accurate information, maps, and resources.

You can also visit the SMC website and follow its Facebook page, listen to WTIP Radio and follow boreal.org for daily COVID-19 developments and announcements from local and state officials.  

While SMC doctors and caregivers are steadfast in their support of the good health of the community, they need your support as well.  Consistent high quality health care from SMC depends on consistent federal funding support.  Be an advocate for SMC by contacting your congressional representatives to urge them to support federal legislation for consistent funding of SMC and other Community Health Centers.

Leave a voice message or send an email to our representatives in the U.S. Senate and U.S. House of Representatives.  

Contact:

Senator Amy Klobuchar

Telephone: (202) 224-3244

Online:  https://www.klobuchar.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/email-amy

Senator Tina Smith

Telephone: (202) 224-5641

Online: https://www.smith.senate.gov/share-your-opinion

Representative Pete Stauber

Telephone: (202) 225-6211

Online: https://stauber.house.gov/contact/email-me