TIPS FOR THE PRACTICING PHYSICIAN
Physicians are here to serve the sick and those who need help. Here are some tips that physicians are incorporating into their practices to best help their community, especially in a time like this.
Limit patients to only those who have to be seen, and reschedule others to a month away if possible. Encourage patients to come in without an accompanying person unless absolutely necessary.
Have your receptionist call patients scheduled to come in and ask if they have a fever, dry cough, shortness of breath, or have come in contact with someone showing these symptoms. If so, reschedule their appointment and have them contact their primary care physician (if you are not the PCP) or local flu clinic.
Incorporate telemedicine into your practice as soon as possible.
Treat every patient as if he or she has the virus. Try to keep a distance away from the patient if possible. If not facing an active case, a regular mask should be worn as N95 masks are now limited and in shortage.
Use hand sanitizer or wash hands with soap before and after meeting each patient. Hand sanitizers should be placed in every room.
Use bleach wipes to clean exam room tables and chairs after each patient visit, along with doorknobs and other frequently touched items in your office.
Install discipline and sense of attention to detail among your support staff. They should practice self-quarantine after work, avoid public places, be vigilant when shopping for essentials, and carry out extra precautions. If one person contracts the virus, the office will have to be closed. It is also in their interest that the office continues to function.
Of course, it is important to remain vigilant and calm during this period.