As Tower Health gradually resumes elective procedures at its hospitals, it is implementing technological enhancements for cleaning and disinfection of patient rooms and procedural areas, especially those used to care for suspected or confirmed COVID-19 patients.
This week, Tower Health has deployed UVC disinfection robots at each of its hospitals. The Finsen Technologies THOR UVC robot delivers a fast and effective germicidal dose of continuous wave UVC energy, killing germs and pathogens, including COVID-19 from floor to ceiling.
The device can be used throughout the hospitals, but Tower Health's initial uses will focus on:
- COVID-19 patient units
- Emergency Departments
- Perioperative suites where a confirmed or suspected COVID-19 patient has undergone surgery
- Intensive Care Units, Progressive Care Units, and Transitional Care Units
Just as sunlight can damage human skin, UVC light kills various pathogens by damaging their genetic structure and materials.
"The use of UV light will enhance the rigorous cleaning processes we have in place to further ensure that our facilities are safe for patients, visitors, front line caregivers, and all employees," said Debra Powell, MD, Chief, Section of Infectious Disease at Reading Hospital. "This is another example of Tower Health's commitment to preventing the spread of COVID-19, while also ensuring we can continue to provide all the other clinical services on which our community depends."
View a video of the THOR UVC robot.
About Tower Health
Tower Health is a strong, regional, integrated healthcare provider/payer system that offers leading-edge, compassionate healthcare and wellness services to a population of 2.5 million people. With approximately 14,000 team members, Tower Health consists of Reading Hospital in West Reading; Brandywine Hospital in Coatesville; Chestnut Hill Hospital in Philadelphia; Jennersville Hospital in West Grove; Phoenixville Hospital in Phoenixville; Pottstown Hospital in Pottstown; and St. Christopher's Hospital for Children, a partnership of Tower Health and Drexel University in Philadelphia. It also includes Reading Hospital Rehabilitation at Wyomissing; Reading Hospital School of Health Sciences in West Reading; home healthcare services provided by Tower Health at Home; and a network of 22 urgent care facilities across the Tower Health service area. Tower Health offers a connected network of 2,200 physicians, specialists, and advanced practice providers across more than 230 convenient locations. For more information, visit towerhealth.org.