COVID-19 pandemic: Tips for patients while visiting any hospital

NEW DELHI: The COVID-19 pandemic continues to grip India, however the lockdown restrictions have been gradually eased up. In the past few months, patients chose to delay non-critical and elective surgeries due to the fear of infection, leaving plenty of lives in peril.

As healthcare front liners continue to battle the pandemic, hospitals are well equipped to tackle a host of other health concerns to deliver high-acuity care. From OPD's to full-fledged hospital services now resumed to normalcy, many patients are still fearful if visiting a hospital is safe or not, says Dr Anita Mathew, Senior Consultant, Physician & Infectious Disease Specialist, Fortis Hospital, Mulund.

The first and foremost precaution is to maintain social distancing and safety for yourself and others in mind. Follow guidelines issued by governing bodies and medical authorities, and seek medical aid on time. Visit your doctor when necessary, avoid delaying treatment as prolonging an issue may aggravate the condition. Here are a few steps to ensure patients safety right from your doorstep to the hospital and back:

Before stepping out make sure to take prior appointments with your doctor. It is strongly advised to do so to avoid queuing up; call the hospital to check if appointments are to be booked online or over the phone. Wearing a mask is mandatory, carry an alcohol-based sanitizer, gloves as well as wet wipes. It is best to carry your own bottle of water from home.

To accompany you to your appointment, it is recommended that only one other healthy person comes along to avoid overcrowding at the center. Those experiencing any symptoms of cough and cold should preferably stay indoors. Pregnant women, older adults and children should refrain from visiting a hospital unless it is of utmost urgency.

For commuting to the hospital, go by your own vehicle if you have one. If you are to take public transport, it is best to pre-book a cab/ auto rickshaw along with the person accompanying you. Make sure to sanitize your hands if you have touched any surfaces and avoid touching your face, eyes or mouth at all times while outdoors.

To pay for your transport, go cashless. Digital transactions will minimize the risk of you coming in exchange with paper money while at the hospital, the first thing you should do is ensure at least two feet space between you and another person. There could be a high possibility of you coming in contact with infected people even though hospitals have dedicated wards, it is best to practice social distancing and safety. Wash your hands with soap and water before and after meeting with your doctor. (IANSlife)

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