Key Information About Coronavirus

FAQs | Patients and Visitors | Resources | Preparations at Tidelands Health | Social Distancing | Vendor Restrictions

Important information for our community about COVID-19 testing

We understand people in our community have questions about the testing process for the COVID-19 coronavirus. Tidelands Health is testing patients when a physician determines it is clinically appropriate to do so. Read all the latest updates on our testing by clicking here.

Virtual screenings with MUSC Health

Tidelands Health is proud to be our region’s MUSC Health affiliate. MUSC Health is offering free virtual care consultations and screenings to anyone experiencing COVID-19-like symptoms in South Carolina. Click here to learn more.

• If you need to schedule an appointment with a Tidelands Health physician, please call 1-866-TIDELANDS.
• If you have general questions about coronavirus, please call the DHEC Care Line at 855-472-3432.
• If you have a medical emergency, please call 911.

What happens once I complete the MUSC Health virtual screening?

If you are a resident of the Tidelands region and your virtual screening indicates you need follow-up care with a physician, MUSC Health will refer you to Tidelands Health, and we will contact you within one business day to arrange appropriate care.

Community Resources

To help guide preparations in the communities we serve, we have developed a series of informational fliers that contain useful guidance and resources. These fliers can be freely downloaded, printed and distributed.

Go to the community resources.

Coronavirus: What you need to know

At Tidelands Health, our top priority is the health and well-being of our patients, team members and the community.

We are closely monitoring the spread of the novel coronavirus, also known as COVID-19. Currently, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention considers the threat posed by COVID-19 in the U.S. to be low, but the agency believes it is likely to continue spreading throughout the country at a rapid pace.

At Tidelands Health, we routinely care for individuals with potentially infectious illnesses and have rigorous infection prevention processes and protocols in place. Working in collaboration with state and federal health authorities, we are drawing upon our extensive experience and training as we respond to COVID-19.

Frequently Asked Questions about Coronavirus

Below are answers to some commonly asked questions about the illness:

What is COVID-19?

COVID-19 is a new respiratory illness that was first identified in December in Wuhan, China.

What are the symptoms of coronavirus?

The symptoms are often mild, but in some cases can be severe enough to warrant hospitalization. Individuals with COVID-19 can exhibit fever, cough and shortness of breath.

How is coronavirus spread?

COVID-19 can be spread through the air by coughing or sneezing, through close personal contact such as touching or shaking hands or by touching a contaminated object or surface, then touching your eyes, nose or mouth.

How can I prevent myself from becoming sick?

Although there is currently no vaccine to prevent a COVID-19 infection, the CDC encourages good hand hygiene and other health practices.

• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom, before eating and after blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing.
• If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60 percent alcohol. Always wash hands with soap and water if hands are visibly dirty.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
• Stay home if you become ill.
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.

What if I think I’m sick with COVID-19?

Call your health care provider and inform the provider that you may have COVID-19. Follow your health care provider’s instructions. In case of emergency, call 911.

I may have been exposed to coronavirus, but I don’t have symptoms. What should I do?

Please call the South Carolina Department of Health at 888-847-0902.

Should I be tested for coronavirus?

Individuals with coronavirus symptoms who meet certain criteria may be eligible for testing. Call your health care provider if you feel sick with fever, cough or difficulty breathing and have been in close contact with a person known to have COVID-19, or if you have recently traveled from an area with ongoing spread of COVID-19.

Where can I learn more about coronavirus?

At Tidelands Health, we’re committed to keeping our community informed about coronavirus and our response to the illness. Please check this page regularly for updates.

You can also find information through the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and South Carolina Department of Health and Environment Control.

To visit the CDC’s website, go here.

To visit the state Department of Health and Environmental Control, go here.