Hackensack Meridian Health Opens New Jersey’s First Center Dedicated to Helping COVID-19 Patients After Recovery

Hackensack Meridian Health has opened New Jersey’s first and only center dedicated to assisting COVID-19 patients after recovering from the infection. Hackensack Meridian Health’s COVID Recovery Center will provide medical support to the hundreds of thousands of recovered COVID-19 patients in New Jersey and the surrounding tristate area as they continue on their path to health.

New Jersey has been one of the hardest hit states with the second highest number of COVID-19 patients in the nation. Hackensack Meridian Health has treated thousands of these patients, more than any other health system in New Jersey, and many COVID-19 patients continue to face lingering side effects requiring additional lung, heart and behavioral health care.

“Hackensack Meridian Health has been a leader in the fight against COVID-19, treating New Jersey’s first COVID-19 patient and publishing research that is helping inform how COVID-19 patients are treated across the country,” said Robert C. Garrett, FACHE, chief executive officer of Hackensack Meridian Health. “Our commitment to treating COVID-19 patients doesn’t stop when people leave our hospitals. Our health care providers are here for these patients throughout their recovery and beyond.”

Recovered COVID-19 patients who need additional medical care can call 833-565-0405 to receive a tele-screening by one of Hackensack Meridian Health’s COVID Recovery Center physicians. Based on the screening results, the physician will create a customized care plan and connect the patient with specialists as needed.

“While our understanding of COVID-19 is evolving, it is clear many COVID-19 patients need additional care after they’ve become ‘COVID-free,’” said James Clarke, M.D., senior vice president, Primary Care & Specialty Care. “From heart and lung complications to anxiety and other behavioral health side effects, our network of primary care physicians and specialists are available to help recovered COVID patients navigate their health care journey after COVID-19.”

“As a physician on the frontlines, we are seeing the lasting effects COVID-19 has on patients following their recovery,” said Laurie G. Jacobs, M.D., FACP, AGSF, chair of the Department of Internal Medicine at Hackensack University Medical Center. “By seeking support, these patients will not only receive the help they need, but also help the medical community learn more about the longer term side effects of COVID-19.”

Hackensack Meridian Health physicians and physician practices across New Jersey are participating in Hackensack Meridian Health’s COVID Recovery Center. If you are interested in learning more about the Recovery Center, please visit HackensackMeridianHealth.org/COVIDCenter or call 833-565-0405