Resuming Outpatient Care with Safety in Mind

During these past two years, the importance of accessible healthcare has been a hot topic. While much of the global discussion has revolved around accessibility to adequate treatment and vaccinations to slow the spread of the novel coronavirus, we mustn’t forget that routine medical care continues to be critical to general health and wellness. Now that a large percentage of the population has received their vaccination for this virus, we’re seeing a gradual return to a new normal. Still, many patients remain somewhat apprehensive about scheduling the medical care they had been putting off. Here, we discuss the value of outpatient care during these times and how you can feel safe going back to the doctor to receive the care that you need to manage your health.

Some Preemptive Work

When scheduling an appointment, talk to the office staff about the protocols that they have in place to protect themselves and their visitors from unintentional illness. Metropolitan Vascular Institute implemented several safety protocols during the early days of the pandemic and have maintained many of them since that time. As the medical community learns more about this virus and the ways in which it may spread and vary, new guidelines may be developed and implemented. What is most important is that patients feel comfortable with the steps that an office is taking, whether that is our facility or a primary care physician’s office.

Some of the information that patients may receive when speaking with their medical providers office include:

• Cleansing and sanitizing protocols for exam and treatment rooms, restrooms, waiting areas, etc.
• Mask requirements for visitors and staff.
• Use of additional PPE, personal protective equipment, by staff.
• Social distancing in the waiting room and at check-in, as well as in the exam areas.
• Screening practices such as questionnaires and temperature checks.
• Limits to the number of visitors in the office at one time.

The vast majority of medical clinics and private practices in the country have implemented at least some of these protocols. Strict adherence to them, especially limitations on the number of people present in the office and maintained mask requirements, give patients peace of mind that they can resume normal healthcare visits as needed to live their best lives.

What You Can Do After Your Visit

If you have concerns about engaging in our new normal, whether or not you’ve had your COVID-19 vaccination, you may want an extra layer of protection as you navigate your routine medical visits. Some of the things you can do after you go to the doctor include:

• Remove your shoes before entering the house, and leave them outside for a few hours.
• Using warm water and soap, wash your hands before touching surfaces.
• Sanitize items that were taken to the doctor’s office, such as a walker or oxygen tank, or even your purse or bag.

Our facility continues to adapt as needed to safely and comfortably navigate changes in healthcare. Even amidst this pandemic, general health and wellness continue to be a matter of importance for people of all ages. Returning to routine and specialty care means staying healthier and stronger for oneself, one’s family, and our community.

Metropolitan Vascular Institute is proud to serve the Waldorf, MD office with patient-centered care. To schedule an appointment, contact us at (301) 374-8540.