Greenwich, CT (August 17, 2020) - Greenwich Hospital’s Teddy Bear Clinic – which typically draws more than 1,200 children and adults throughout the region – will take a hiatus this year due to concerns surrounding the community spread of the coronavirus.
For 21 years, the Teddy Bear Clinic has entertained and educated youngsters, offering hands-on activities and one-on-one interaction with Greenwich Hospital healthcare professionals for children to learn about hospital services in a family-friendly environment. The event will return in October 2021.
“This popular community event has become a tradition for many families in Connecticut and New York,” said Diane Kelly, Greenwich Hospital president. “But in order to comply with state rules and protect our community and staff, we made the difficult decision to cancel this year’s Teddy Bear Clinic. Although Connecticut does not show signs of resurgence at this time, we must remain vigilant because the virus still poses a serious threat. We are extremely hopeful that the Teddy Bear Clinic will be back bigger and better than ever next year.”
Greenwich Hospital and all of its offsite locations are completely open, with the resumption of all services that were temporarily suspended or deferred at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. The hospital has implemented numerous measures to keep patients and staff safe, including screening and testing, social distancing and advanced cleaning across all facilities. Patients who do not have the coronavirus are treated on separate units by different care teams while in the hospital. Patients can also schedule phone and video visits with their physicians.
“It’s important to seek medical care when needed and keep up with preventive care, including staying up-to-date with immunizations,” said Kelly.
