Mold Remediation in a Critical Access Hospital

Background Mold in healthcare facilities can be detrimental to the health of patients, employees, and visitors. Remediation can also be costly to small facilities. Employee and patient perception of the facility can also be damaged. In Texas, due to multiple severe weather events including Hurricane Harvey, mold was found in a Critical Access Hospital. This mold grew in multiple areas of the hospital and created concerns regarding potential health issues. Methods Multiple construction and remediation activities were required to ensure the facility is a safe environment for providing care. Air quality testing was performed on periodic timeframes. Multiple town halls were required to provide information and progress updates to ease concerns about the environment for patients and employees safety. Results Mold in a healthcare facility can be costly financially and to the image of the hospital. Continuous remediation for a small hospital creates financial burdens that can impact the ability for the facility to remain open. In addition, the employee and patient perception of the facility can be damaged beyond repair. At the time of repairs there have not been any adverse patient events or employee harm noted. Conclusions Quick and continuous remediation is required after water intrusion from hurricanes or other natural water sources to minimize costs, harm, and prevent damage to the facilities image.