The State of Iowa has launched a new official service for all things related to the 2019 novel coronavirus pandemic, and all it takes is dialing three digits.
The 211 service is an all-in-one resource for COVID-19, with its primary function to address people who believe they are exhibiting viral symptoms. State health officials encourage people to call the help number as opposed to calling 911 or their local healthcare providers, and before they think about visiting the hospital. The purpose is to reduce the strain on the healthcare system, which had been inundated with calls and visitors who exhibited mild symptoms of coronavirus. Nurse practitioners and other healthcare professionals will discuss the symptoms and treatments with callers, and if necessary direct them to a medical provider.
While being proactive in the detection of COVID-19 cases, 211 can also provide assistance with resources for finding food, paying housing bills, accessing affordable childcare, and other needed services that have come out of the pandemic. To learn more about 211, click the link below to visit the official website.