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This past week, Georgia Pacific Mill in Brewton donated respirator masks to D.W. McMillan Memorial Hospital.

Due to the pandemic, there is a shortage of masks and other supplies locally as well as across the world. In response to the need, the Georgia Pacific Mill donated 320 N95 respirator masks to be used by staff members of DWM.

“This is a critical time. Supplies are very limited across the United States,” said Jason Daniel, director of public affairs and marketing for DWM.

Julie VanDeWater, mill spokesperson said “Our healthcare professionals are on the front lines every day and it is more critical than ever that we do what we can to help keep them healthy.”

She continued, “GP is a longtime supporter of the greater Brewton area and we are proud to be an important part of this community. We will continue to do what we can to help reduce the spread of this deadly virus.”

“We appreciate the donation,” said Daniel on behalf of the DWM hospital staff.

Along with GP, Brewton City Schools donated cleaning and sanitizing supplies and tissues. According to Daniel, the extra resources will be used to help continue the fight against COVID-19.

“If any organizations or businesses that have extra supplies, we are definitely looking to utilize them during this time,” said Daniel.

DWM remains dedicated to the health and wellness of its employees and patients during this time. Currently there are no confirmed cases in Escambia County. All patients and guests are advised to enter through the emergency room entrance.

According to hospital staff, every person entering the hospital will be screened at this time. This is standard hospital protocol issued by the Alabama State Health Department. The hospital does have the  capability to collect specimen for testing; however, all testing is completed off site.

As of last Fri. at 1 p.m., a new visitor policy was applied to all patients and visitors.

The new policy prohibits all visitation to the DWM facilities. The only exception is for certain compassionate care situations including maternity and end of life.

All confirmed cases of the coronavirus (COVID-19) are publicly available on the Alabama Department of Public Health website. In response to the policy update, Daniel stated, “Please be patient as we continue to navigate this emerging, rapidly evolving situation.”