Our New Office Policies During the Coronavirus—and a Thank You to Our Patients
It’s one of the most challenging times in our nation’s history.
The coronavirus has created a strange, new world for all of us. This is a frightening and often confusing time.
But we want to let you know we’re all in this together, and nothing will cause us to compromise your safety and the safety of our staff.
As a result, we’ve had to adopt new office policies that we know are not convenient. We’d like to thank you upfront for your patience as we adjust to what is going to be the “new normal” for a while.
We’d like to once again review these policies and tell you how to get the most out of your telemedicine or online doctor appointment.
Our goal is to always provide you with the compassionate, quality care you expect—whether that’s in our office or through a computer interface.
New Polices During COVID-19
Have You Been Exposed to the Coronavirus?
First, we want to make it abundantly clear if, for any reason, you’re having difficulty breathing, you should call 911 or seek immediate treatment.
If you have COVID-19, or you’re concerned that you’ve been exposed to it, you should call the UNC helpline at 1-888-850-2684 before visiting our office, an urgent care location, hospital, or emergency room.
We want to emphasize the importance of practicing social distancing and handwashing, particularly if you are pregnant.
Our Offices Are Still Open
We remain open but have adjusted our office hours. Currently, we’re limiting our in-office appointments to gynecological problems and obstetrical care.
As always, our physicians are on-call 24/7 for any urgent matters.
If you have any routine questions or need to schedule an appointment, you can conveniently use our patient portal.
Because we want to minimize risk to our patients and staff, we request that no visitors come into the office at this time.
If I Have an In-Office Visit, Where Do I Enter?
If you are coming to an in-office appointment, we ask that you please park in our back lot and go through the rear door. We will screen everyone entering the office for COVID-19.
What If I Need Paperwork?
We understand that you may need to drop off or pick up paperwork. If this is the case, please stay in your car and give us a call. We’ll be glad to deliver the paperwork to your car.
Some Tips to Get the Most Out of Your Online Doctor Appointment
What Is Telemedicine?
Telemedicine utilizes the latest technology to enable you to have a video conference with your physician, similar to the way meetings are conducted on Zoom, Facetime or Skype. Through this interface, you’ll speak with one of our providers who will provide answers to any of your questions and give you the information you need.
Tips for Speaking With Your Doctor During an Online Appointment
Some of the same principles apply for in-person visits. For example, it’s good to have a list of questions you’d like to ask, and you may wish to have something with you to write notes. This will ensure you don’t forget anything.
Remember to tell us if you have any changes in your medication or if you’re taking any new herbal supplements.
If you use a telemedicine interface, here are some guidelines to remember:
Test your microphone and camera before each appointment.
It may be easier for you to Skype or contact a friend for a “test” to be sure that you can be seen and heard clearly. It’s important to get this out of the way before meeting with your provider.
Use a well-lit area.
Be aware that light that is behind you will cast shadows across your face. We want to see you clearly! When possible, use natural light.
Speak slowly and clearly.
Granted, you should already have any issues with your microphone resolved before our appointment, but it’s always a good idea to speak clearly to ensure you’re easily understood.
Find a quiet area.
Pets and children are a joy to be around, but sometimes they can be a bit noisy or disruptive. If possible, place pets in another room. (It seems they are always curious when you’re on the computer!) We also recommend that you have someone watch your child during the time of your appointment. This will ensure that you get the most out of your visit.
It’s also important to eliminate background noise. Even the sound of a fan or rattling in another room can make it difficult to understand you.
Our Patients Are Our Inspiration
We are inspired by you. We admire the way you take a proactive approach toward your health and the way you work with us as a team to ensure your mental and physical well-being.
That’s why we’d like to thank you.
We know these are difficult times, full of anxiety and fear. We know that our schedule changes and new policies have caused quite a bit of inconvenience.
But thank you for understanding that all we do is in your best interest.
If you need to reach us, contact us, and we’ll give you instructions on the best way to conduct an appointment.
We’re stronger together, and we will persevere.
