{"id":7244,"date":"2020-08-05T14:11:15","date_gmt":"2020-08-05T14:11:15","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/preferhome.com\/4-considerations-for-visiting-your-doctor-in-the-covid-19-era\/"},"modified":"2020-08-05T14:11:15","modified_gmt":"2020-08-05T14:11:15","slug":"4-considerations-for-visiting-your-doctor-in-the-covid-19-era","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/preferhome.com\/locations\/blog\/4-considerations-for-visiting-your-doctor-in-the-covid-19-era\/","title":{"rendered":"4 Considerations for Visiting Your Doctor in the COVID-19 Era"},"content":{"rendered":"

As the weeks have turned into months of dealing with the COVID-19<\/a> pandemic, a particular challenge for many seniors has involved decisions about routine medical care and office visits. For many of our elderly loved ones, chronic illness has a significant impact on one\u2019s quality of life, and close attention and evaluation by a health care provider is an important part of optimizing his or her health.<\/p>\n

While the prevalence of COVID-19 varies across the country, there are several important principles to discuss when it comes to the topic of visiting your health care provider for an office visit, imaging study, lab test, etc.<\/p>\n

1. Discuss Your Health Management with Your Physician<\/h2>\n

It is important to reach out to your doctor\u2019s office by telephone to discuss the best way to manage your health conditions. Each individual has a unique circumstance, and a one-size-fits-all approach should be avoided. Many providers have switched to telehealth visits during the pandemic, performing evaluations over the phone or through video conferencing. As some offices across the country re-open, ask your physician what options are available for visits. Some may continue to provide telehealth, and this may be a viable option for certain individuals. However, depending on several factors including the need for an in-person physical exam, your doctor may suggest that you come to the office in person. The important point here is that you have the conversation and that your unique health circumstances are considered.<\/p>\n

2. Consider the Risk<\/h2>\n

Currently, there is no way to completely eliminate the risk related to COVID-19 infection. However, it is important to be aware of what risk you may be taking by venturing out. If case numbers in your area are low, the risk to your health is much lower compared to someone living in an outbreak area. Because case rates change over time, individual risk also changes. Below is a useful calculator, based on the best available data, that can provide an up-to-date risk assessment based on your location and group size. The best way to prevent COVID-19 infection is to avoid being exposed to the virus. After you determine your personal level of comfort, be sure to check out #3 for necessary precautions. Check the COVID-19 Event Risk Tool<\/a> for more information.<\/p>\n

3. Take Necessary Precautions<\/h2>\n

After considering the risk, it is important to consider the necessary precautions for protecting yourself from possible infection. Health care offices across the nation have implemented new policies, which may include spacing out chairs in waiting rooms, spacing out appointment times, deep cleaning procedures, etc. Along with this, it is important to stay vigilant and remember personal habits that can protect your health. You are probably familiar with these, but to summarize some important recommendations from the CDC:<\/p>\n