Delaware County hospitals are handling the current load of patients as medical staff and emergency workers continue to plan for a possible surge in COVID-19 cases in the coming days or weeks.

“Our hospitals are doing OK. There are no unmet needs. All our hospitals are also planning for surge capacity,” said Tim Boyce, director of Delaware County’s Emergency Services Department during an April 7 press conference held by Delaware County Council members to update the public on COVID-19 developments.

Social distancing and other public health practices could minimize the impact on local hospitals, he added.

A plan to move non-COVID low acuity patients to the Glen Mills School should hospitals be inundated with coronavirus cases is in place. No patients are currently at the school, he said.

Meanwhile, Chester County Health Director Jeanne Kasner said a new testing strategy would be implemented in Delaware County.

An antibody test will be given to priority individuals like First Responders, healthcare workers, staff at long-term care facilities, as well as staff and inmates at the George W. Hill Correctional Facility. Hospitals will also be using the test.

The test will show the presence of coronavirus antibodies whether the person exhibits symptoms or not. Results of the antibody test are available in 15 minutes.

“Having this information is critical in helping Delaware County address first prioritization in patient care, managing staff shortages and preparing for crisis care management if that is needed. Our priority is to begin testing those who are performing these essential functions to ensure they remain safe and those they are caring for remain safe,” Kasner said.

The county has 10,000 test kits and will soon receive another 10,000, she said.