Richland County collaborating with Prisma Health on reopening

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Richland County is collaborating with Prisma Health to safely reopen county facilities to the public and nonessential employees.

While no reopening date is set, the county’s administrative staff is drafting procedures with appropriate safeguards in place, according to a news release from the county.

The Prisma Health collaboration will focus on reopening protocols including infection rate data analysis; securing personal protective equipment for workers; and establishing screening procedures for employees and visitors.

“At Prisma Health, we believe that collaboration with local governmental agencies makes our communities stronger and helps foster the best health outcomes, whether it’s during these unusual pandemic times or during our outreach to the community to improve their access to health care,” Mark O’Halla, Prisma CEO, said in the release.

A committee made up of Richland County personnel is considering additional protocols including a staggered schedule for returning employees and a limited number of employees allowed on-site at one time.

“Forming a partnership with a major health care provider that knows the local community is extremely important as we explore best practices to reopen county facilities,” County Council Chair Paul Livingston said. “As we continue to listen to medical professionals, the business community and residents to meet the needs of the entire community, the expertise and insight from Prisma Health will be invaluable.”

Richland County will continue to provide services online, by phone or fax, or through the mail, as well as to hold virtual public meetings.

“While Richland County offices have been closed to the public, County Council, other elected officials, employees and our community partners have been doing great work to keep Richland County moving through this unprecedented health crisis,” County Administrator Leonardo Brown said. “I’m encouraged by everyone’s efforts and look forward to working with Prisma Health to take next steps to fully reopening county government.”