Last Updated on July 21, 2022 by
The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic has had adverse effects on lives globally. As the pandemic progressed, people were forced to put their medical visits on pause. But for how long? Delaying necessary medical visits and putting off routine checkups may come with several risk factors.
People are more hesitant now to visit crowded places for fear of contagion. Further, it is entirely understandable that people have been avoiding populated places such as hospitals due to the risk of getting infected.
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What About Patients with Severe Ailments Like Heart Disease?
For patients with chronic ailments such as heart disease, skipping a regular medical checkup is not advised.
So, if you’re a patient of long-term heart disease, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol or have been diagnosed with diabetes, do not delay or miss out on your routine checkups with your cardiologist. Instead, adopt a few protocols before your visit to ensure proper safety amid the ongoing pandemic.
Tips to Ensure Proper Safety During Your Visit to a Cardiologist Amid the COVID-19 Pandemic
A visit to a cardiologist is very important, so make sure you’re prepared and follow necessary precautions before a visit to the hospital or clinic.
Carry your essentials
Before you head out to your appointment, don’t forget to wear a mask and bring a bottle of hand sanitizer. Double-mask if needed. Make sure to practice social distancing while traveling to the clinic or hospital and while you’re there.
Ensure safety at the hospital or clinic
If you’re a person suffering from cardiovascular disease, you need to take extra care of yourself. People with heart or respiratory illnesses are more vulnerable to the virus.
Remember to wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, and wash your hands at regular intervals at the clinic or hospital. Avoid touching any surface area that receives frequent touches. Do not remove your mask. Maintain a social distance with other patients and staff of at least 6 feet.
Try using digital payment methods while paying for your visit or medicines, and if you’re using cash, then don’t forget to sanitize your hands after the transaction. If the clinic is insisting on patients following certain protocols, do not ignore them.
Arrive early.
While it can take a bit of time to fill out forms and answer queries, it is advised that you arrive at the clinic with more than enough time to avoid commotion at the last minute. Being late for your appointment can hold you back for a longer time.
Be prepared before your visit.
Call the clinic or hospital before your appointment to familiarize yourself with their safety precautions which may be constantly changing. Bring all your previous prescriptions and other essential documents with you, and make a list of questions you need to ask your cardiologist.
Your meeting with the doctor
Cardiac patients can have a hard time combating COVID-19. Remember to ask your cardiologist about the steps you need to follow during this time to avoid exposure. If the condition is severe and you need to be admitted immediately, check the safety measures taken by the specified hospital.
Maintain social distancing with the cardiologist. Do not hesitate to address your problems. Ask your doctor about a diet regimen that will build up your immunity against this dangerous disease. Check if the doctor offers online or digital appointments to schedule a safe follow-up.
If you suffer from breathlessness, talk to your doctor about whether it may be caused by COVID-19 or your heart condition.
Ask the cardiologist to prescribe a larger supply of medicines, so you don’t need to go out frequently to buy them.
After the meeting
Wash your hands thoroughly before and after meeting the cardiologist. Check if your prescribed medicines are available online. See if the pharmacy offers delivery options so you needlessly don’t have to leave your house.
Cardiologists Doctors at Frisco ER
Are you looking for a cardiologist near you? Stop worrying because the cardiologists at Frisco ER have got you covered.
Our experts are going to take care of all your medical needs. Your health is our top priority. Fear not, and let our specialists guide you through these challenging times. If you face an emergency, Frisco ER & Urgent Care is available for you 24/7.
With the increasing number of COVID-19 cases, cardiac patients are at a higher risk. Senior citizens and older adults are especially susceptible. So, do not delay your health care because “prevention is always better than a cure.”
Conclusion
This is a challenging time for everyone, and we’ll get through this together. But your health care should still be your number one priority. Be observant and follow the recommendations laid out by experts to ensure your safety during this pandemic. Remember, health comes first. You can’t afford to take any unnecessary chances.
Read More: 5 Ways To Improve Patient Care Management In A Hospital
