As the Coronavirus pandemic continues to change the cultural and commercial landscape of the world, the needs of regular patients have remained the same. Since the outbreak of the Covid-19 virus, fear and uncertainty have become a part of everyday life. There is so much that is still not known about this illness that it has become a breeding ground for fear.
If you have other non-COVID-19 health concerns, you may be hesitant or even scared to seek help from your doctor or clinic. The fear of becoming infected by COVID-19 from having to visit a doctor’s office is keeping people from getting the help that they need.
Your fear is understandable. However, avoiding proper medical treatment can be as life-threatening as the virus itself. If you take the right precautions, work with doctors that are actively preparing their offices with the help of sanitation experts like Sterifre Medical and adopt a progressive safety routine, there is no reason that you can’t keep your next doctor’s appointment with confidence.
Communication
When you make your medical appointment it’s important to share your Coronavirus related fears with the staff and doctors. Anxiety and stress can exasperate your condition and your medical team will help you to deal with your reluctance. Find out what your doctor’s current protocols are and how they are working to keep you safe during your doctor’s visit.
PPE (Personal Protective Equipment)
Governments and medical institutes around the world agree that the first line of defense against the Coronavirus is to protect yourself from person to person infection. Before you head out to your doctor’s appointment make sure that you are wearing a cloth mask or face covering. We know that most of the spread is through droplet exchange from coughing or sneezing patients. Covering your mouth and nose is the best way to avoid direct infection.
Virtual Visit
Talk to your doctor about arranging a virtual visit. If you don’t need to have a physical examination, it’s possible that any issues can be addressed via video conference. Using programs like Skype or Zoom, you can conduct a full meeting with your doctor from the safety and comfort of your own home.
Social Distancing
Some doctors have drastically changed their office operations to comply with social distancing guidelines. From limiting the number of patient appointments to a minimum to having patients wait in their cars until they are ready to be seen by a doctor; find out what type of routine your doctor has set up for your protection.
Hand Washing
Before you get to your doctor’s office you should do a thorough hand washing. Using soap, wash and scrub your hands for a minimum of 20 seconds, rinse and dry with a dry, clean towel. When you arrive at the office, you can use a hand sanitizer before you go in for your appointment. Be careful to limit touching any surfaces when possible. As soon as you leave the office after your appointment you should be using hand sanitizer and then washing your hands when you get home.
It’s not surprising with the rising level of fear and anxiety due to the rapid spread of Covid-19 that patients are worried about going out for a doctor’s visit. Take your health into your own hands by following the recommended guidelines and these tips to help you get the medical attention that you need with confidence.
