So…is it safe to go to the doctor during COVID-19?
Its such a valid question that we’ve been hearing a lot.
But any contact with people outside your home increases your risk ofdeveloping or spreading COVID-19.
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Unfortunately, the answer to this question isnt simple.
It may be easiest or safest to delay some appointments or conduct them through telehealth.
In other cases, it might be best to go in for your appointment as safely as possible.
First, determine your COVID-19 risk and comfort level.
Thinking about visiting your doctors office might scare you.
(And that is completely understandable.)
After all, you could be around peoplewho have COVID-19, especially unknowingly.
How fast is COVID-19 spreading in your community?
Could you have close contact with someone who is potentially sick but asymptomatic?
(Symptoms vary by person butcommonly include fever, shortness of breath, anddiarrhea.
Notably, some people also lose their sense of taste and/or smell.
Ask about and prepare for virtual appointments.
Many clinics and hospitals offer care using video or phone appointments during the pandemic.
Dr. Poland says its possible to accurately diagnose many medical conditionseven things like shinglesduring a video call.
This way you could eliminate one appointment and reduce your exposure to other people.
you could say, I dont feel comfortable.
Is there any way we can do this over the phone?
Ask the receptionist if theres anything you’re able to do to make the appointment run more smoothly.
For example, sending a photo of arashto your doctor ahead of time may be useful.
It can be helpful to have another person focus on note-taking so youre not distracted.
Seek in-person care for emergencies.
After all the devastation this virus has caused, its understandable if you feel reluctant to seek medical care.
Not to mention that affordable health care isn’t always accessible, especially when you need care suddenly.
But it’s really important to seek emergency care if you think you have a serious health concern.
How do you choose where to go when you need in-person care?
Maintain ongoing care that you need for certain serious conditions.
Determining whether you should visit a medical facility is a difficult decision for anyone.
Ultimately, there is no easy answer.
Keep up with your preventive care as needed too.
Its important to do those preventive things, he tells SELF.
Is it going to make a difference if we test your cholesterol today or three months from now?
Again, your doctor can help you decide whats best based on your overall health and family medical history.
Dont put off routine care, Dr. Malani tells SELF.
There are a lot of cancer screenings and vaccinations that have fallen by the wayside.
Even now its vital that yourvaccinationsare up-to-date to avoid getting sick with preventable diseases.
That includes the flu vaccine.
Some doctors may schedule vaccination appointments during a time when they dont see any sick patients.
Know that COVID-19 risk can vary based on the kind of care youre getting.
But again, health professionals can address many concerns virtually.
For example, dermatologists can prescribe acne medications and gynecologists can consult about birth control.
However, more invasive procedures such as skin cancer removal and ultrasounds still require in-person visits.
Its perfectly fine to postpone a routine cleaning, according tothe World Health Organization.
As of August 2020, they recommend delaying dental care when community transmission of COVID-19 is high.
Sitting about 25 inches from your gear screen can reduce strain too.
Prepare before an in-person visit.
Reevaluate in January, she says.
But again, dont be scared of seeking care for something like chronic pain or a health emergency.
Not to be a broken record, but its vital to discuss your specific situation with a medical professional.
He recommends asking the following questions: Are they using proper PPE?
Is the office adequately ventilated?
How often are the surfaces cleaned?
Are they testing for COVID-19?
Are people spaced apart?
Are doctors and nurses wearing masks and face shields, and sanitizing their hands?
Dr. Poland avoids spending a lot of time in waiting rooms during his own personal medical appointments.
I dont want to interact with a physician longer than 10 minutes, he tells SELF.
(This is true even if both people wear masks.)
Making a list with all of your questions ahead of time can streamline the appointment.
Ultimately, you have to do what makes you comfortable.
