In April 2020, emergency room visits to a large New York City hospital network dropped by 50%. That’s compared to data from the same time last year.
While sheltering at home meant people were getting fewer injuries, people with symptoms of heart attacks and strokes were staying home too. Many people across the U.S. avoided hospitals out of fear of catching Covid-19.
Now that many doctors’ offices are offering appointments again, it’s tough to know what to do. Which doctor appointments should you keep and which can you put off?
Luckily, we’ve answered the most common questions below. Read on to learn what to do about your doctor appointments in 2020.
Which Doctor Appointments Do I Need to Keep?
First, ask yourself if you have any symptoms like a cough, shortness of breath, or a fever. These can be signs of Covid-19, so your doctor might want to postpone your appointment. They might also have you get tested for Covid-19.
If you have a pre-existing condition like diabetes, high blood pressure, or lung disease and you suddenly have a new symptom, you should see a doctor. Watch out for things like weight gain, swelling, or abdominal pain. Your doctor might talk to you over the phone first before having you come into the office.
If you’re getting ongoing treatment with a specialist, you should also keep your appointments. It’s important to stick to your treatment. Plan to keep up with your dermatologist, oncologist, OBGYN, or allergist appointments, unless the office tells you otherwise.
Should I Cancel My Wellness Appointments?
The answer to this question depends on your doctor’s office and the spread of Covid-19 in your community.
If you’re concerned about exposure, you can delay your yearly physicals and dental cleanings for a later date. You should also call your doctor’s office to see what they recommend for you.
Whether you see an OBGYN at a women’s healthcare association or a dentist in a private practice, they can help you decide when you need a wellness check and when it can wait.
When Is a Telehealth Appointment Enough?
A telehealth appointment is just like a regular office visit except the doctor can’t examine you.
If you’re in a high-risk category, your doctor might see you through a telehealth appointment instead. It’s a good option if you have a chronic illness and you just need a check-in to talk about ongoing treatment. If you’re still having problems, your doctor might want to see you in person.
If you have questions about medical supplies you need, prescription renewals, or ways to prevent Covid-19 exposure, a telehealth appointment will work.
What Can I Expect at the Doctor’s Office?
Most doctors’ offices and hospitals will expect you to wear a mask, just like their staff. You might also notice fewer chairs in the waiting room and more hand sanitizer stations.
The check-in process might also look different. The receptionist will probably ask if you have any of the Covid-19 symptoms, like fever, cough, or shortness of breath. A nurse may even take your temperature.
Take Charge of Your Health
There’s a lot of uncertainty about doctor appointments in 2020. If you’re not sure what to do about your appointment, call your doctor for advice. If you need an in-person appointment with your doctor, book an appointment as soon as possible or go to the ER if it’s an emergency.
For more information on health and wellness, check out our articles on healthcare.
