NorthShore CEO Tests Positive For Coronavirus, Recovers: Report

EVANSTON, IL — The chief executive officer of NorthShore University HealthSystem told employees he was diagnosed with the new coronavirus early last month, Crain's Chicago Business reported, citing an internal company memo.

J.P. Gallagher, 49, of Wilmette, said he was tested several weeks ago after developing a mild fever and has since fully recovered, according to the Crain's report. Gallagher reportedly told staff he self-quarantined while waiting for the test results and managed to avoid infecting his family members with COVID-19, the disease caused by the new strain of coronavirus.

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Evanston Hospital began performing in-house coronavirus tests on March 12, becoming the first hospital group in Illinois to offer its own test for the virus.

Gallagher's memo said NorthShore facilities are not at capacity, although patient volumes are continuing to rise, Crain's reported. The CEO also said the five-hospital health system would "spare no expense, while being responsible stewards given the realities of a greatly pressured global supply chain" to secure needed personal protective equipment.

Swedish Hospital in Lincoln Square, known as Swedish Covenant Hospital before it was acquired by NorthShore last year, is among the many area hospitals to have reported shortages of protective equipment for staff, such as masks, gloves and gowns. The hospital is seeking donations of medical supplies on its website.

Read more from Crain's Chicago Business

Related:

• NorthShore Doctor Answers Coronavirus Questions From Residents
• North Shore Hospitals Prepare For Influx Of Coronavirus Patients
• In-House Coronavirus Tests Offered At Evanston Hospital
• NorthShore Agrees To Acquire Swedish Covenant Hospital