Dear Patient:
With the corona virus outbreak known as COVID19, it has become quite easy to become swept up in the national anxiety and fear about the possible spread of infection. While the danger is quite real, there are several ways to avoid feeling helpless or overreacting to the situation. The WHO (World Health Organization) and the CDC (Centers for Disease Control) have announced precautions we can and should all follow to remain as safe and prevent the spread of the virus to ourselves and to our communities as much as possible. Several of these are listed here:
- Wash your hands regularly with soap and water.
- Avoid touching your face.
- Cover your mouth when your cough or sneeze. Try to use your elbow.
- Avoid physical touch and contact with others.
- Try to remain at least 6 feet (2 meters) apart while standing or sitting.
- Avoid large gatherings or crowded events.
- Wear an appropriate mask or face covering when in a public building or around large crowds.
- Get vaccinated
- If you experience any symptoms, such as fever, cough, or fatigue, then you should get tested, remain at home and to contact your doctor for further advice.
With these precautions in mind, if you are feeling healthy, you should not be afraid to leave your home for errands, appointments, or to enjoy outdoor activities, as long as you are not going to be in settings where there is risk of infection.
What’s happening at my office?
My office has and will remain open for business. I am seeing patients during regular office hours.
Please know that your safety and well-being always comes first! I am wiping down all sitting furniture and doorknobs with anti-viral wipes several times daily. My office space is large enough that it is never necessary to be less than 2 meters apart. I have installed a medical grade HEPA room air filter. Bathrooms have plenty of soap and paper towels. I have been vaccinated as I now require of all patients entering my office. To date, no one in my practice has tested positive for or had symptoms of COVID-19.
Are there other options?
However, should you become symptomatic, and need to remain at home, or if you feel unsafe or uncomfortable venturing from your home at this time, I am also offering “virtual” appointments by video chat over the internet. If you are interested, please send me an email to request more information. This will allow me to register your email address to access the video portal and to schedule video appointments. While there is no additional charge for this service, you may want to check with your insurer about reimbursement for virtual services.
Video chat is available from a number of vendors. I have chosen to use Google Meet and Zoom for video appointments at this time. Appointments may be sent to you by email in advance or by email or text at the time of the appointment. To use either Google Meet or Zoom, you will “join” a meeting I have set up for you on the day and time we have arranged. If you are unsure how to join the meeting, please let me know as soon as you can. If you would prefer using a different internet video service, please let me know, and I will try to accommodate your request.
If you do not have access to the internet by phone, tablet, or computer with webcam, limited services are also available by telephone. Please call me if you wish to make a phone appointment.