During the pandemic, it could be scary for some people to visit their ophthalmologists because of the fear of infection. People are now hesitant to even go for routine check-ups. You really have to choose only the trusted medical professionals who follow strict hygiene and disinfection protocols for medical consultations.
New Schemes for Eye Care During Coronavirus
Despite the limitations to close physical contact due to coronavirus pandemic (COVID-19), we should still be conscious about our eye health. Some clinics now offer “telemedicine” visits which only require an online connection through smartphones or laptops.
However, some cases cannot be accommodated by telemedicine alone. They could be so complicated that an in-person appointment is a must. On these occasions, medical practitioners are mandated to follow strict sanitation protocols to protect their clients as well as themselves.
There are certain changes that are to be implemented as part of safety precautions during the pandemic. Here are some guidelines that are mandated by the government:
- No mask, no appointment. The clinic must be able to provide disposable masks to its clients in case they were not able to bring one.
- Normal waiting rooms should not be accommodating many people. In order to avoid crowding, clients must be asked to wait outside in their cars or at least 6 feet away from each other. If it is really necessary that the patient must be accompanied by a family member, only one is allowed.
- Upon entering the building, your temperature must be checked.
- All staff and medical professionals must wear PPE. All equipment that is to be used should be sterilized before and after use in each patient.
- During the eye exam, this may require close contact with the patient and the doctor. Both should refrain from talking until the eye exam is complete. Both can speak when they can be a safe distance from each other.
For Guidelines Regarding Symptoms:
- If you arrive sick, with cough, fever, or have been in recent contact with someone who has these symptoms, your doctor may decline your appointment. But, if your case is a medical emergency, you will be attended to in a special room isolated from other patients.
- If you should cough or sneeze while your exam is ongoing, move away from people and all the equipment. Cover your mouth in the crook of your arm or with a tissue. Wash your hands and arms with soap and water right away.
Take note that ophthalmologists are always ready for eye emergencies. Macular degeneration routine injections, loss of vision, any type of eye injury, eye pain, red eye, and floaters are some of the eye emergencies that require immediate medical attention.
