Many hospitals and clinics now are treating people who are infected with COVID-19. So if you’re in the hospital or clinic for any other reason, this may be an unsettling time. It’s common to be concerned about becoming infected with the virus.
However, hospitals and clinics have policies to prevent the spread of infections. For example, doctors and nurses are trained to wash their hands before they treat you. Health care centers have stepped up these policies now. They are taking further steps to protect their patients.
As much as a hospital visit may seem scary, the virus should not hinder you from seeking the medical assistance you need. Any urgent matters surrounding yourself are important to be addressed. Knowing what to do in a hospital to stay protected will help you make this happen.
Here are some things to do for a safe hospital visit amidst the pandemic:
Try Teleconsultations First
In some cases, you may be able to see a doctor without going in. Many doctor’s offices are making telehealth and online appointments more available. If it’s possible, your doctor may suggest a visit using the computer or phone.
Certain institutions and organizations have new rules in place to make telehealth easier right now. For example, insurance companies have expanded their coverage of telehealth for many common doctor visits.
So if you have a regular doctor visit coming up that you’d rather not cancel, ask if there’s a way to do it remotely. If something comes up, like a case of strep throat, that might be something that can be taken care of over the phone, too.
Be Cautious And Responsible
Bring your own hand sanitizer and gloves. Your hospital’s screening might or might not instill confidence. Make sure you get your temperature checked before entering the health facility. You might also get screened for self-reported symptoms and exposure risk.
You could be asked to wear a hospital-provided mask, but be careful around poorly designed mask dispensers that introduce exposure risk. You might want to bring an unused mask to use as an alternative if you are required to use a new mask.
Practice Physical Distancing
Most hospitals are using separate entrances, care teams, and respiratory units for COVID-19 patients. This applies to both those who are hospitalized and those being evaluated. Isolating COVID-19 patients and medical staff help protect everyone’s health. In turn, you should do the same.
Keep the distance from other individuals at all times. Avoid making physical contact with other people and do not loiter around the facility at all times. This will also benefit the other people inside the hospital given the fact that the virus can affect people without apparent symptoms.
Go Cashless
Use digital modes of payment for your appointments, follow-ups, and other medical expenses to prevent any physical contact. Several hospitals, personal physicians, and even health insurance providers and transport vehicles allow online payments.
You can also carry all your documents and reports related to your medical history or health condition at the time of consultation. These can help speed up the doctor’s diagnosis and treatment. It can also save you an in-person follow-up the next time.
Disinfect When You Get Home
COVID-19 is primarily spread through respiratory droplets from coughs and sneezes and droplets exhaled when talking that land in the mouth, nose, or eyes of someone in close contact. The virus is also contracted by touching the face, eyes, nose, or mouth with your hands that may have the virus on them.
Therefore, cleaning hands and wiping down frequently touched objects, such as a cell phone or tablet, that are commonly transported between home and work is an important step to take prior to returning home.
Key Takeaway
Your health is essential. If something’s bothering you, you have a chronic condition or you’re looking for preventive care, it’s important to get the right diagnosis or treatment so you can feel your best. Putting off health care may result in complications later or make your recovery more difficult. So, the virus should not stop you from visiting the hospital.
What you need to do before, during, and after a hospital visit is similar to everyday measures to protect yourself from the virus. This includes vaccination, getting a booster, frequent hand hygiene, physical distancing when in crowded spaces or large gatherings, and wearing a face mask. With these practices, you get to protect both yourself and the people around you.
