Dear Patients of Signature Healthcare,
There is much about this virus that remains unknown. Infected individuals with few or no symptoms may be spreading the virus. The CDC now recommends “wearing cloth face coverings in public settings where other social distancing measures are difficult to maintain (e.g., grocery stores or pharmacies) especially in areas of significant community-based transmission.” Wearing a face covering does not protect you from acquiring the virus, but it may decrease the possibility of you transmitting the virus to others if you are infected without symptoms. There are no studies that have demonstrated the efficacy of face masks during a pandemic, but many untested strategies are being used during this difficult time. If you wear a face mask, avoid touching your face while wearing it. There is no evidence that wearing gloves (outside of patient care) is beneficial and this practice may increase the risk of spreading the virus to yourself or others. Social distancing and frequent hand washing remain the most important practices for slowing the spread of this virus.
Several companies are developing tests that check for COVID-19 immunity. Despite premature statements by the media, none of these tests are currently approved for specific SARS-CoV2 antibody testing. We will inform you when an accurate test has been approved and available at Signature.
After several weeks of discouraging news, the curve has just begun to “flatten” in Europe. This means that slightly fewer new daily cases of COVID-19 are being noted and the death rate is beginning to slow. In the United States, the number of new cases (and deaths) from Coronavirus continues to grow. However, with continued social distancing, we should see this curve flattening, too. Be aware that the date at which we experience the maximum number of new cases and deaths from COVID-19 is still ahead of us. Thus, we must be vigilant in our efforts to keep transmission rates down. Leave home only to get groceries, or to seek medical care in which a telemedicine visit is not appropriate.
We are still testing for COVID-19 in the parking lot outside our South Park office. If you develop fever, cough, and/or other concerning symptoms, please call the office.
For those of you who require any vaccines, Signature Healthcare has these in stock and we can administer them in our parking lot if you prefer. Call our office to schedule any required vaccinations.
We know that being confined to one’s home for several weeks can be taxing on the body and mind. We urge you to engage in regular physical exercise and to maintain a healthy diet. If you have NOT yet received your annual complimentary exercise (with Michelle Sigmon) and nutrition (with either Natalie Roberts or Beth Avery) consults, both are now available virtually.
Many local therapists and psychiatrists are also doing virtual visits – if you need a referral, please let us know.
Recommendations to maintain psychological health include:
- Maintain structure in the day by following a routine.
- Maintain regular sleep cycle and sleep hygiene.
- Exercise.
- Go outdoors (while maintaining social distancing).
- Practice meditation, mindfulness, and/or controlled breathing exercises.
- Connect with others using apps and programs, particularly those who might be alone.
- Keep a journal
- Avoid drug use and excess alcohol consumption.
This website includes several resources available during COVID-19. If you have additional recommendations for us to include on the website, please let us know.
Sincerely,
The Physicians & Staff at Signature Healthcare