As medical professionals, we are trained to place the well-being and safety of our patients above all else, and that commitment to your health and safety is driving every decision made during this challenging time. We are closely monitoring all developments related to the Coronavirus (COVID-19), and we are strictly adhering to all guidelines issued by the Center for Disease Control (CDC), World Health Organization (WHO), and our local and state governments.
Our pledge to patients is to be here for care you know is essential. Patients and practices are now free to elect necessary medical services and procedures that may have been delayed. We will continue to provide a safe and comforting office experience for all patients needing dermatologic services.
Though restrictions are easing, we remain committed to ongoing safety and prevention of illness transmission. You need to know what our clinic sites are doing to protect everyone:
- Everyone must wear a face mask. Patients may wear cloth masks and should have them on when they come into the office. Masks are required for adults and minor patients. Wearing a mask may prevent the spread of small droplets, so please follow our lead and wear a mask throughout the visit whenever possible.
- Everyone must wash hands or use hand sanitizer when entering and leaving the office. Please use the sanitizer provided, as you see our staff and providers doing. It is the most helpful prevention measure in the infection control arsenal! Hand sanitizer, tissues, and lined trash receptacles may be found in every waiting area and clinic room for use by our patients.
- Patients must be screened at each visit for fever and flu symptoms. We perform the same screenings for every staff member, every day. Anyone with a fever or flu symptoms will be asked to reschedule the appointment. Patients with special risk, such as persons over 65 or persons with chronic health conditions, may wish to stay at home and use our convenient telehealth program.
- Patients will notice posters at the office about COVID-19. These are meant to educate and advise about how to limit the spread of the virus. Every member of our staff has also received CDC generated written educational information about COVID-19, and about personal protective equipment. Policies and postings are changed as guidelines evolve.
- Special physical distancing measures are now being taken, so please be patient with us when we do not get close to you or shake your hand. Please understand when we limit numbers in reception areas or we ask you to wait in the car to prevent office congestion. Please do not bring children under 12 or any others with you when you come for a visit. No one other than the patient and a required caregiver may be in the office. Sometimes these safety practices will add to the time it takes to complete your visit. Thanks for your understanding that our practices are meant to keep you safe and healthy.
- We have always prided ourselves on a clean, safe office environment. Now more than ever, cleaning and disinfection is of paramount importance. EPA registered cleaning materials are used frequently throughout the day on all surfaces in exam rooms, waiting areas, labs, and office spaces. High touch surfaces like door handles, exam chairs and tables, and restrooms are given special attention.
- Our waiting areas no longer offer magazines, pamphlets, or children’s toys, since those items are difficult to clean and disinfect.
Be assured we remain fully prepared to evaluate and care for all of our patients, and we are taking all possible precautions to protect our patients, their families, our staff, and our communities. Thank you for your support and cooperation with these efforts as, together, we face this unprecedented public health challenge.
