Prevent the Spread of COVID-19
All persons entering Rice Medical Center and Clinics are being asked to come with their own masks, whether homemade or purchased
This is an effort to conserve PPE’s for the healthcare providers and people on the front lines
In the media section below are some helpful links on how to make masks at home.
COVID-19 Emergency Declaration Visitation Policy
July 24, 2020
I regret to reaffirm our revised visitation policy prohibits visitors entering the hospital with very few exceptions. This is not optional. This is a mandate put in place by the Texas Health and Human Services Commission during the COVID-19 Emergency declaration. The Trump administration extended the emergency declaration until October 25, so this revised policy will remain in effect at least until that date unless rescinded by THHSC or other executive order.
The exceptions to the exclusion of visitors is limited to the following:
- Providers of essential services include, but are not limited to, contract doctors, contract nurses, hospice workers, other contract healthcare providers, persons providing a survivor of sexual assault with services required by Health and Safety Code Chapter 323, and a single designated caregiver acting on the patient’s behalf.
- Persons with legal authority to enter include, but are not limited to, government personnel performing their official duties and an attorney or other legally authorized representative of a patient.
- Persons providing critical assistance include providers of essential services, persons with legal authority to enter, a clergy member authorized by the hospital, one parent of a minor who is a patient, and family members and friends of a patient at the end of life or presenting at the emergency department, subject to the hospital’s policies and procedures.
A copy of the official Health Facility Compliance Guidance Letter issued by THHSC will be made available upon request.
We will be happy to assist where possible in virtual visits. Thank you for your understanding during this trying time.
“Questions about Covid-19?” We now have a confidential COVID line to help you! 979-234-5571 (option 1)
Rice Medical Center-Lighthouse has established a COVID information line to help. We realize that many in our community are becoming overwhelmed with stress, worry, and fear. In an effort to help the community cope and endure these emotionally challenging times, the Lighthouse staff will be available to answer general questions. All COVID tests at Rice Medical Center require a physician order, please contact Rice Medical Associates to schedule your telemedicine visit. Rice Medical Center, Rice Medical Associates and Lighthouse are here for you. If you wish to talk to one of our staff, please call 979-234-5571 (option 1), our we are ready and happy to help.
Please note the following limitations:
- Unable to provide medical or health information we advise you to refer to a healthcare provider, or call 911 in an emergency. All information provided is intended for general guidance only.
- Unable to provide mental health or counseling. The support line can only address matters related to stress, nervousness, sadness, and significant feelings of loneliness.
- Mental health counseling can be arranged with one of our licensed therapist through telemedicine if needed.
- Hours of Operation Monday -Thursday 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Friday 9:00 AM-11:00 AM.
Our lines are open and our staff is ready to support you! We can and will get through these times together. You are not alone, we are here for you!
Contacts:
Vice President of Business Development – Tyara C. Barge tbarge@ricemedicalcenter.net
Director of Behavioral Health Services – Odette Elliston oelliston@ricemendicalcenter.net
We at RMC, RMA and Lighthouse are monitoring the ever-changing CDC guidelines daily. There is no vaccine or specific treatment for the COVID-19 virus. Having said that,
If you are experiencing mild flu/cold like symptoms (cough, fever, achiness, vomiting or diarrhea) you should self –isolate and monitor yourself at home. You can take Tylenol for fever, rest and drink plenty of fluids. If you are experiencing more severe symptoms like:
- Difficulty breathing
- Persistent pain or pressure in the chest
- New confusion or inability to arouse
- Bluish lips, face or nailbeds
You should go to the nearest Emergency Room.
Stopping the spread of the virus is very important and the new recommendations state that social isolation, (avoiding large crowds) is one of the best ways to decrease the spread. The new recommendation is avoiding crowds where there will be more than 10 people. Other ways to stop the spread of this virus include:
- Wash your hands for 20seconds with soap and water frequently
- Using alcohol sanitizer if soap and water not available (60% alcohol)
- Cover your cough or sneeze with tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash
- If you don’t have a tissue, cough into your elbow
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth
- Avoid close contact with people that are sick
- Stay home when you are sick, except to get medical care
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces
RMC, RMA and the Lighthouse welcome your questions anytime. 
If you need to contact Rice Medical Center or the Lighthouse call 979-234-5571. If you need to speak with someone at Rice Medical Associates call 979-234-2551 for Eagle Lake, and 979-335-4433 for East Bernard.
Diagnostic Imaging and Radiology Services include X-rays, Ultrasounds, CAT Scans, MRIs, Digital Mammograms and also perform special procedures that consist of biopsies, aspirations, thoracenthesis, paracenthesis, needle localization, barium procedures, arthrograms, myelograms, and some vascular studies.
