Baptist Health Line celebrates 20 years
For 20 years, Baptist Health Line, the area's only RN call center, has provided free health information to callers. The free, 24-hour telephone hotline took its first call on April 1, 1996. The number is 270.575.2918 for general health information.
April 1, 2016 —For 20 years, Baptist Health Line, the area’s only RN call center, has provided free health information to callers. The free, 24-hour telephone hotline took its first call on April 1, 1996.
Nurse manager Bonnie Bullard, RN, has been with the program since the beginning. She said its StorkLine provides valuable information and great comfort to new parents.
“After the doctor’s office has closed, when it starts to get dark at night, and then fears come in, and children’s temperatures go up, we’re there,” Bullard said. “We’re nurses. We’re there 24/7 for anybody who needs us about any healthcare questions, and we want to serve you. I like to really look at that as a gift to our community.”
Baptist Health Line is staffed by registered nurses with at least three years of hospital experience. In addition, Baptist Health Line staff has received intensive training in computer technology and interpersonal communication. Current staff members have a wide range of medical expertise.
Callers to the 24-hour service receive guidance on general health information. Questions about an illness or injury already under a doctor's care are referred to the treating physician. In emergency situations, callers are referred to their emergency department of choice.
Baptist Health Line also provides counseling to patients recently discharged from Baptist Health Paducah and Baptist Health Madisonville. Another service offered is the facilitation of transfers into the facility for Paducah and after hours for Madisonville.
Talk to a Baptist Health Paducah nurse any time free by phoning:
-
Baptist Health Line at 270.575.2918 for general health information.
-
The StorkLine at 270.575.BABY for information about newborn care.
-
The Chest Pain & Stroke Hotline at 1.800.575.1911 for immediate advice about heart attack and stroke symptoms.