The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted every aspect of our lives, from spending time with friends and family to schooling, grocery shopping, and sporting events. But one thing hasn’t changed…the importance of taking care of your health and well-being.
Victor Waters, MD, Chief Medical Officer at Dignity Health – St. Bernardine Medical Center (SBMC) shares the importance of routine preventative health screenings to early detection of abnormalities. “Although we are in this pandemic, we encourage our community to remember the importance of regular wellness exams. People are worried about contracting COVID-19, but it’s important to remember that mammograms, prostate exams, colonoscopies, and other annual screenings, are all critical in maintaining one’s health.” Dr. Waters cautions the public that the likelihood of cancer progressing while avoiding doctor’s offices or hospital settings can put you at greater risk than the virus itself.
St. Bernardine Medical Center announced the receipt of a $100,000 grant from the Stater Bros. Charities and Inland Empire Fighting Cancer. The funds are the result of the Annual Believe Walk, a charity event that raises money to support cancer care and services. This donation will further enhance the cancer services available to the San Bernardino community.
"St. Bernadine’s health care team is working harder than ever to ensure patients are safe while we provide high-quality care. This generous grant is a reminder of the importance of caring for our community members who are battling cancer,” said Doug Kleam, SBMC Hospital President. “Hospitals across the country are concerned that patients are not seeking care when they need services, including regular physician consultations and health screenings, leading to progressed cancer diagnosis.”
Dignity Health encourages you to check with your primary care physician to see if you are due for a check-up, and rest assured that our hospitals and doctor’s offices are practicing all health department recommendations, including social distancing in the waiting rooms, disinfecting common areas and surfaces, and masking for all staff and patients.
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