When the nation shut down for COVID-19 routine visits to doctors, dentists and other medical 0ffices were put on hold. Many people had to learn to live with postponing health care until more could be learned about the quickly spreading virus. More and more as the businesses open up, people are starting to head back to their medical doctors as well. But how do you know if it’s okay to reschedule and pick back up with your checkup routines? There is a lot of uncertainty out there. In fact, there is no guarantee that anything is completely safe. There are measures, though, that can be taken to safeguard employees and patients. Before heading into the office, ensure that you understand any new policies and that you are comfortable with the changes. Here are four questions to have answered before you go.
1) Are People Monitored for Symptoms?
Whether you’re already sick or simply having a well visit, you’ll want to minimize any additional exposure. Discuss how the office is keeping tabs of health concerns. Many establishments are following Center for Disease Control recommendations, taking temperatures daily and sending staff members home who exhibit symptoms such as a heavy cough, sore throat, or fever. This should also be done for patients as well.
2) Are Filtration Devices Installed?
Indoor locations could be more vulnerable to viral spread as the air conditioner circulates germs throughout the room and ducts. Purifiers cannot grab everything, but they can do a lot to reduce the virus load. This is particularly helpful when your mouth or nose may be uncovered for a long duration of time. For example, a root canal can take time. The dentist has to numb you, drill and fill the area. Without a mask, you’re exposed. Places like emergency dentistry Windsor Terrace have considered this risk, improving filters. Make sure that your organization has done the same.
3) Are Masks Mandated?
While still a hot topic, the majority of specialists support masks while in a building or when social distancing isn’t possible. If these aren’t required, inquire about how they are spacing people, especially in the waiting room.
4) Are They Modifying Check-in?
Some establishments have long waits. What accommodations are made for this situation? Are fewer appointments being made? Some offices have everyone staying in cars, avoiding crowds and extra bodies. Skip sitting in the chair. Instead, listen to the car radio, and enjoy the cool air. Call the phone number to let the nurses know you arrived. They call or come to get you when it’s time to enter.
Prioritize you, but do so with a focus on safety. You have to make sure that you are keeping yourself as safe as possible. Also, be kind with your inquiries keeping in mind that employees are just as nervous as you are and that everyone is most likely doing what is right to keep the public and each other safe.
