With states starting the process of opening up businesses, healthcare such as physical therapy, imaging, and some surgeries are starting to open up as well.
As much as this is good news to some, it also makes some feel anxious about whether or not they will be safe.
Both views are real and matter.
With this said, know that if you do have to go to an appointment or a scheduled procedure, things are going to look very different.
Upon arriving for an appointment, you will most likely be asked a series of questions. Questions may look different at each location, however, most likely they will include questions such as:
- Has anyone in your household had a positive Covid-19 test?
- Has anyone in your household been in contact with someone who tested positive for Covid-19?
- Have you had a fever in the last week?
- Are you experiencing a loss of taste or smell?
If any of those questions are answered yes, you may be asked to reschedule your appointment. This is why it makes sense to call ahead of your scheduled time to see if it makes sense for you to go.
There will be limited entrances and exits to the building making sure to screen everyone before going in. This also applies to people delivering mail and/or flowers.
Your temperature may be taken before going in to make sure you aren’t experiencing any symptoms of Covid-19.
You will be asked to wash your hands when you arrive. Facilities will also have hand sanitizer available for you to use.
Masks will be worn by everyone especially at hospital settings. If you don’t have a mask, most places will provide one to you. If you are unsure, call ahead to make sure.
Social distancing will still be followed. Waiting rooms and other common areas will have more sections to encourage being six feet apart. Magazines will most likely not be available.
Cleaning will be done not only throughout the day, but UV light procedures will be done while no one is there.
Some hospitals may ask you to have a Covid-19 test ahead of a scheduled surgery at least two days prior to your scheduled procedure.
Hospitals and healthcare facilities are requiring the same protocols to their staff as they are for you. That means they are screened before coming in each day and if they are experiencing any type of respiratory symptom, they are being asked to stay home.
Hospitals also have established areas and/or units where individuals who have tested positive for Covid-19 are isolated from others. This helps to minimize the risk of the spread to others.
This is not about scaring you; it’s about protecting you. The last thing that anyone wants is to see if you putting off much needed appointments.
There is always risk and I will not lie to you about that, but the risk of not going to the emergency room when you feel you may be having a stroke or a heart attack is of much greater risk.
Do not be afraid to speak up, ask questions, and be your best advocate.
Because . . . . . . .
Your feelings matter.
Your story matters.
You matter.
Terri Trepanier is the owner of Balanced Care Health and Supplemental Insurance and a licensed insurance consultant and broker with Associated Brokers. Licensed in both Maine and NH, her specialty is working with small businesses, individuals, and families with their health and life insurance needs. She is certified to offer health plans both on and off the exchange and is contracted with every health insurance company that offers plans in both New Hampshire and Maine. Her other passion is assisting Medicare beneficiaries with their Medicare Supplemental, Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Plans, and Medicare Advantage plans. Terri has seen firsthand the importance of insurancCare is to “Insure Security and Peace of Mind One Family at a Time”.