Numerous medical institutions in Huzhou, East China's Zhejiang province recently set up a new specialized section within their premises to improve care for COVID-19 patients.

The section, which is usually staffed by medics from departments of respiratory, infection, general practice and other disciplines, offers medical treatment to COVID-19 patients with mild symptoms.

Huzhou Central Hospital was the first medical institution in the city to set up such a section. The hospital inaugurated the section on Jan 2. Its move to do so was later adopted by hospitals at class two or above across the city a day later.

People who have symptoms including cough, sore throat, slight chest tightness can register to see a doctor at the section, which operates from 8:00 am to 10:00 pm.

The opening of the new section has shortened the waiting time for medical treatment from more than two hours during peak hours to less than 30 minutes. The section has also helped address emergency room congestion, thus allowing for patients in critical condition to receive more timely care.