BEND, Ore. — In anticipation of an increased demand for health care services the week around the solar eclipse, some St. Charles clinics will offer walk-in appointments for extended hours.
From Aug. 16 through Aug. 23, the following clinics will be open from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.:
- St. Charles Immediate Care East at 2600 NE Neff Road in Bend
- St. Charles Family Care Redmond at 211 NW Larch Ave.
- St. Charles Family Care Prineville at 384 SE Combs Flat Road
- St. Charles Family Madras at 480 NE A Street
For important updates that week about health care, follow St. Charles at:
- Stcharleshealthcare.org
- Facebook and Twitter: @STCHealth or @COEmergencyInfo
With the eclipse just 14 days away, St. Charles is encouraging its patients to be prepared for the significant population increase in the area and the stress this may place on services.
Eyewear
Be sure to wear NASA-approved eclipse glasses during the event to prevent eye damage. Visit this site to learn more: https://eclipse2017.nasa.gov/safety
Hydration and sunscreen
Stay hydrated with drinkable water and use ample sunscreen during these hot summer days.
Hygiene
If camping or enjoying one of the many eclipse festivals, wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after using the bathroom and before preparing food to prevent the spread of infectious diseases.
If you’re pregnant
If you're due during the days before or following the eclipse, think about those family or friends you know who live close to the hospital and would let you stay with them. If you have concerns about your ability to get to the hospital, please talk to your provider. Also keep extra supplies at home including:
- Water
- Diapers
- Wipes
- Nonperishable food items
- Toilet paper
- Pet food
If you take prescription medications
If you take a prescription medication, talk to your provider to make sure you have an ample supply during this time as it may be difficult to get to a pharmacy. Place your mail orders early, as the postal service may also be delayed.
Mosquito and tick bite prevention
Stay indoors at dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active. When outdoors, wear long-sleeve shirts and long pants. Choose and use a repellent that contains one of these active ingredients: DEET, picardin (odorless), oil of lemon eucalyptus or IR-3535. Check your body for ticks after being outdoors. Shower soon after being outdoors. Check your clothing for ticks when you come indoors. Stay on trails and paths, avoiding high grass.
About St. Charles Health System
St. Charles Health System, Inc., headquartered in Bend, Ore., owns and operates St. Charles Bend, Madras, Prineville and Redmond. It also owns family care clinics in Bend, Madras, Prineville, Redmond and Sisters. St. Charles is a private, not-for-profit Oregon corporation and is the largest employer in Central Oregon with more than 4,200 caregivers. In addition, there are more than 350 active medical staff members and nearly 200 visiting medical staff members who partner with the health system to provide a wide range of care and service to our communities.
