How to Safely Go to the Doctor During the Pandemic

It is perhaps no surprise that in the middle of a global health event like this, a lot of people are choosing to “put off” their medical care for a later date. While this can reduce your chances of getting infected while out and about, it’s not a very sound strategy in the long term.

The problem with delaying routine medical care is that your health could already be deteriorating, without you even knowing it. Visiting the doctor on a regular basis is the best way to catch health issues before they become problematic.

While going to the doctor during the pandemic has its inherent risk, there are ways to minimize it. It’s all about paying attention to current COVID recommendations, and taking advantage of tele-health benefits whenever possible.

Q: Is it really safe to go to the doctor during COVID-19?

While visiting your doctor during the pandemic can increase your risk of catching COVID, there are ways to drastically minimize that risk. It’s also important to recognize the risks associated with putting off medical treatment, like the spread of cancers and worsening of conditions.

In this guide, we’ll go over six ways to stay safe while seeking treatment, then answer a few common questions about visiting the doctor during COVID.

How to safely visit your doctor during the pandemic [Checklist]

1.) Know your COVID-19 RISK

If you’re nervous about visiting your doctor during the pandemic, that’s totally normal. After all, you could be putting yourself in the same room with people who may have COVID-19, and you wouldn’t even know it.

By now, every doctor’s office and medical facility has COVID-19 procedures in place. These include short appointments, limited persons in the waiting room, and stringent cleaning and disinfecting schedules.

Before you make an appointment, find out about what measures are being taken to prevent the spread of the virus.

2.) Consider a virtual appointment

Here’s one way to eliminate the risk of visiting your doctor: Stay home. With the rise of tele-health benefits, it’s possible to visit with your primary care physician without leaving the house. While this style of appointment was once only for small questions and nurse advice, it’s evolved into a functional, convenient way to seek medical treatment without stepping foot outside your door.

3.) Seek in-person care if you need it

While telehealth benefits are great, there is no substitute for in-person care when you really need it. If you become severely ill, are having chest pains, acute abdominal pain, breathing problems, or are showing any symptoms of stroke, you should seek emergency treatment right away.

4.) Know your clinic’s COVID-19 rules and procedures

You can keep your appointment to a minimum by knowing all the new rules and procedures ahead of time. Many clinics are requesting that you call when you arrive, so they can limit the amount of people waiting in the lobby at one time.

Almost all providers will ask you if you are experiencing COVID symptoms before bringing you in. You can still visit the doctor if you are experiencing symptoms but need emergency treatment, just be sure to inform the clinic before your appointment begins.

5.) Manage your ongoing health conditions

If you know you have a health condition, this is not the time to take a break with treatment or management. For example, people who have cancer may still require regular treatment, even though they are at a higher risk of getting really sick.

Unfortunately, there is no easy answer when it comes to something like this. If you need treatment but are uncomfortable with going in, speak to your medical professional right away. Your care team can put together a treatment plan that keeps you safe.

More questions about visiting the doctor during COVID-19

Q: Are dentists safe to visit during the pandemic?

The CDC has requested that dentists work with local health departments to set new COVID-19 guidelines and safety measures, so it’s going to be a little different depending on where you live. But all dentists will have thorough rules and procedures in place by now to minimize transmission risk.

On the other hand, some elective dental work can be postponed without any ill-effect. Urgent dental needs are going to be prioritized by most dentists, who might also be working with limited appointments.

Q: Can I still bring another person with me for my appointment?

This will vary by clinic and provider … Call ahead to find out if you’re allowed to bring another person in with you.

Q: Should I put off my regular doctor’s appointment until after COVID?

No. Instead, schedule a digital tele-health appointment and consult with your doctor without even leaving the house. Your doctor may request that you schedule an in-person follow up if there are any concerns. If you do have to go in, pay attention to both CDC guidelines and your clinic’s new COVID rules.

Stay on top of your health care

If you have questions about COVID-19, your Medicare Coverage, or your long-term retirement plans, give us a call. Our Personal Benefits Managers are trained to provide expert financial guidance through every stage of life, even when one of those stages happens to be a global pandemic.

You can also stay up to date with the latest news by visiting the MediGap Advisors Blog.

To your health and wealth,

Wiley P. Long, III
President – MediGap Advisors