McFarland Clinic, Iowa’s largest physician-owned, multi-specialty clinic, fully supports universal masking within its facilities and the communities it serves.
“In response to the national public health emergency, we believe universal masking is an important first line of defense against COVID-19 to ensure the health and safety of everyone following CDC guidelines,” stated Todd Berryhill, MD, chair of the McFarland board of directors. “We took precautionary measures early in the pandemic by implementing a universal masking policy within our facilities. To support the health and well-being of the communities we serve, we advocate a temporary mandate for universal masking indoors at businesses, schools, and social gatherings and we encourage masking in gatherings outside.”
McFarland Clinic implemented a universal masking policy at all of its facilities on April 13, 2020. All patients, visitors, and staff are required to wear a mask while at the clinic. Staff at entrance doors screen patients for symptoms, COVID testing status, and ensure everyone has a mask or one is provided.
“The idea behind wearing a mask is to protect others from you. It is possible that you can unknowingly have COVID-19 and be contagious to others,” said Berryhill. “A mask provides an extra barrier and layer of protection for everyone’s benefit. Wearing a mask is important to reduce the spread of the virus and prevent more infections.”
