To our patients of Asthma and Allergy of Idaho and Nevada:
Obviously, the novel corona virus (COVID-19) that originated in China is grabbing the attention of the world. In order to better protect you and our medical staff from this virus, we are immediately implementing important exposure controls.
1. We are physically separating patients who have no active infectious symptoms from those who might have a cough or fever. In other words, if you come to us for a routine recheck or your allergy shot, you will not need to worry about being seated next to someone who is sick. We want you to feel safe continuing your allergy treatments with the clinic and we will do all we can to ensure that safe environment.
2. If you are sick with respiratory symptoms and call our clinic wishing to be evaluated, our front desk personnel will have one of our medical providers (physician or nurse practitioner) call you back on your phone to evaluate you before offering a clinic appointment. Based upon your symptoms, the provider will recommend appropriate treatment; this may include home care, over-the-counter or prescription medications, a clinic appointment or evaluation at your nearest emergency room. We will try to minimize your need to physically travel to ours or other healthcare facilities as our country tries to deal with this very contagious virus. If we ask you to come to our clinic to be seen, we may ask you to wear a face mask and will immediately place you in a private room upon your arrival. To better protect both our well patients and our staff, we will be making liberal use of over-the-telephone treatment.
The Center of Disease Control (ie: CDC) and our Idaho State Health Department both operate websites that contain a wealth of information regarding the COVID-19 problem. We are implementing safe medical practice based upon their guidelines. This virus is not “just a cold”. It is very contagious and risky for many groups of people we see in our clinics, including those over age 60 years and who have chronic lung or immune deficiency problems. We must protect them.
If you are not in these high risk groups, your risk of severe illness with COVID-19 appears to be fairly low…that is great news! However, you could pass this virus on to someone who will not do well if infected. Therefore, if you are sick, please be wise and stay home. Practice good cough etiquette if you have a cough and wear a mask if you must travel outside your home when ill. Review CDC information to keep your family members safe.
As a medical practice, as a community and as a nation, we will overcome this virus but we must be aggressive and smart to do so. Thank you for letting us help you with your healthcare needs!
Sincerely,
The staff of Asthma and Allergy of Idaho and Nevada