
While everyone is adjusting to a new normal during the midst of this global health pandemic, many people are wondering just how safe it is to begin seeing their doctors regularly again for care not related to COVID-19. You shouldn’t continue skipping your doctor’s appointments, but if you don’t feel safe coming back in person quite yet, you have options. Here’s why you shouldn’t skip anymore appointments and how you could continue to benefit from telehealth.
Many places were shut down when COVID-19 made its way to the country. Not only did restaurants and bars have to shut down, but many doctors had to close their doors too. Cancelling elective procedures and treatments and moving to focus on telehealth, every doctor had to also adjust to the times.
Now, as things begin to slowly open back up, most doctors are back to work. With that, most providers have changed the way they’re doing things. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has recommended how to best go about seeking medical care right now. They suggest:
However, if you feel you have to go see your doctor, there are precautions you can take to feel safe during your visit. The CDC recommends:
In most instances, yes, it is safe to continue seeing your medical providers. If you are concerned about your safety, call your doctor. On the call, ask about the safety measures they’re taking to keep you and your loved ones safe. Many providers are having patients check in and wait from their cars. Additionally, they are taking temperatures, and screening for COVID-19 symptoms before a patient enters the practice.
It is important to note that if you are having ANY type of medical emergency, call 911. You still need to get to the emergency room as soon as possible. They will do their best to keep you safe during your visit and it could save your life. There is anxiety about going into the emergency room right now. However, staying home could be far worse for your health in the event of a medical emergency.
The American Heart Association notes that there are concerns about catching COVID-19 right now. Those are valid, of course, and it’s important to remain cautious. However, if those concerns drive ailing people away from hospitals, it could be dangerous. They mention doctors want anxious people to know that the emergency room is safe, and if you need to go, you should.
If you are having problems managing your pain or need help with other aspects of your overall well being, call Interventional Pain Associates today. Taking proper precautions to keep you safe, you can rest assured that we’re doing everything we can to protect our community in the midst of COVID-19. If you aren’t comfortable coming into our office yet, we also offer Telehealth services. Call today to learn more: (512)-795-7575.
We treat low back pain, neck pain, knee pain, migraines, headaches, and more. Call us to book your appointment today, located in Austin, Texas.