The COVID-19 pandemic has affected every aspect of life. And with the potential for future waves of this pandemic and the possibility of other pandemics in the future, you may understandably feel wary about leaving the house, let alone going to the doctor's office. However, you still need to take care of your health. So, schedule that doctor's office visit and get to know some of what you should be prepared for when going to the doctor's office during a pandemic. Then, you can be well-prepared on the day of your appointment.
You Should Wear a Face Mask
One of the important things to be aware of when you are planning to go to the doctor's office during the pandemic is that you should wear a face mask when you do so. This will be protective of both you and of the staff and other people around you at the clinic.
In the current pandemic climate, COVID-19 can be spread through coughing, sneezing, and even breathing as tiny droplets of moisture come out of the body and can land on people or on surfaces.
Many Waiting Rooms Have Separate Sections
A step that many doctor's offices are taking to protect people coming into their office is to divide the waiting room and even the clinic itself into a "sick" and "well" section. This will keep patients with symptoms of the pandemic virus separate from those individuals that have no symptoms.
Pay close attention to any directions you are given by staff members about where to sit in the waiting room so you make sure you are in the correct section.
Try to Social Distance in the Waiting Room
While waiting rooms are not particularly well-designed for social distancing, try to do so as much as possible. Sit as far away from other patients waiting as possible. If you cannot sit anywhere far away, you could always find a distanced place to stand and wait. Just do your best to maintain 6 feet of space between you and other patients. However, if you are all wearing masks, there is less of a chance of germ transmission between you.
You Will Be Screened for Symptoms
No matter what you come into the doctor's office for, you will more than likely be screened for virus symptoms. This may even be done at the front door before you are allowed to enter the clinic or office. This screening is quite simple.
You will have your temperature taken and be asked a series of questions about symptoms and possible exposure. They will use these answers and your temperature reading to determine whether or not you may have the pandemic virus. If you may have it, they will likely get you to a room as quickly as possible to be further assessed and tested.
Now that you know some of the important facts about going to the doctor's office during the pandemic, you can get your appointment scheduled and be as prepared as possible for your visit. For more information, reach out to the staff at a doctor's office.