Message from the 211 medical triage call center

On behalf of the Polk County Health Department, United Way 211 and the hospital systems and clinics in the county, we want to thank all the nurses who donated their time answering the 211 medical triage line. Nurses from hospitals, clinics and schools along with medical students answered phones seven days a week responding to individuals concerned about their exposure to COVID-19, symptoms of the illness, how to get tested along with many other questions and concerns. When our hospitals and clinics were taxed, the nurses and medical students stepped up and provided guidance to aid the health and well-being of our community. We will be forever grateful for your service.

United Way 211 and Polk County have always had a successful partnership during uncertain and often difficult times. The COVID-19 pandemic has not been any different.  The collaboration between 211, Polk County Medical Coordination Center, Polk County and our hospital systems have helped thousands of people in our community navigate their health care to lessen the burden on our medical system and prioritize healthcare needs in the community. 211 took on the medical triage call center without question. They knew it was the time when the community needed help and guidance and they were eager and happy to provide that assistance. We thank United Way 211 for stepping up and handling this momentous task with ease.

As our healthcare systems have now adjusted to the ongoing demands surrounding COVID-19 and we have seen the numbers to our 211 medical triage line decrease, we will be winding down that line on Friday, May 22, 2020; however, 211 will still run 24/7 to answer COVID-19 related questions and help connect Iowans to information and resources they need.  We recommend patients contact their medical home regarding medical related COVID-19 questions. For other questions about COVID-19, or for help navigating any other health, human, or social service programs, please call 211.