Helen Newberry Joy Hospital physician tests positive for COVID-19

NEWBERRY — Helen Newberry Joy Hospital announced one of their doctors has tested positive for COVID-19.

The hospital said the following in a press release sent out Monday morning:

Helen Newberry Joy Hospital has been notified that one of our providers tested positive for COVID- 19. Dr. Sheppard wanted to share his identity while he recovers at home. He sees patients in the Manistique Lakes Family Clinic and West Mackinac Health Clinic.

“As healthcare workers, we are on the frontlines of this pandemic and it is impossible to completely eliminate the risk of exposure. We have worked with the local health department to inform patients, staff, and others who may have had contact with Dr. Sheppard,”  said Michael Beaulieu, M.D., chief medical officer, HNJH.

To ensure patients receive timely care, Dr. Michael Beaulieu will be seeing those who have appointments with Dr. Sheppard until he has fully recovered. HNJH has and continues to follow all infection control measures, including the deep cleaning of facilities, to prevent any spread of the virus.

We all must continue to be extremely vigilant about following COVID- 19 prevention guidance, which includes wearing a mask in all public areas, physical distancing, washing hands frequently, and receiving your flu vaccine.

If you are experiencing symptoms or would like to be tested, call the HNJH Coronavirus Hotline at (906) 293 – 9288, Monday – Friday from 9AM- 3PM, to set up a testing appointment. Individuals with a positive test result will be contacted by the LMAS District Health Department. All other results are followed up by the healthcare provider who ordered the tests.