As more is learned about COVID-19 and its transmission, CHC/SEK clinics are changing visitor policies to provide the safest care to their patients while protecting their caregivers.
In alignment with the CDC’s guidelines to wear cloth masks in public settings where social distancing measures are challenging to maintain, CHC/SEK requests that all individuals, including patients, caregivers, vendors, and visitors wear a mask while in the clinics.
Those without will be offered a disposable facemask to wear while on the premises.
Masks enhance cough etiquette, prevent people from touching their faces, and are a visual reminder to practice social distancing.
Additionally, CHC/SEK asks patients to limit the number of persons accompanying them to one companion, friend, or family member who is involved in the patient’s care.
Clinic physicians feel it is important to limit the number of non-essential and “well” persons inside the facilities to prevent coronavirus’s potential spread by asymptomatic carriers.
Patients and visitors are also being screened for symptoms of COVID-19 (e.g., fever, sore throat, runny nose, and cough, shortness of breath, muscle aches, or diarrhea) and temperature checked before entering the clinic.
CHC/SEK understands in some cases patients may not be able to limit those accompanying them to one person. Alternative visits using virtual technology are available for some types of patient visits, eliminating the need for the patient to travel to a clinic setting.
A virtual visit is a two-way, live, one-on-one video-based appointment between a patient and her/his healthcare provider.
Patients can connect with CHC/SEK using their Android phone or tablet, iPhone or iPad, or desktop computer for a visit.
Patients are encouraged to call their local clinic and inquire if a virtual appointment is appropriate for their situation.
CHC/SEK will continue evaluating its procedures. Protecting the safety of its caregivers and patients during the ever-changing COVID-19 pandemic remains a top priority.
###