With the ongoing COVID-19 crisis in India, it is best to confine yourself indoors at all times. Our healthcare system is currently so overwhelmed that the best way to protect ourselves is by avoiding contracting the virus. And thanks to technology, most of our essential activities can be done online—like ordering groceries and procuring medicines.
However, there are some instances when you simply cannot avoid stepping out, like routine medical appointments. While the outside world might seem like a scary place, don’t skip important appointments on account of your fear. As long as you take all safety precautions, your chances of contracting COVID-19 will be minimised. Here’s what you should do if you need to step out for a non-COVID-related appointment.
Explore Online Options
Since a lot of cities in India are currently under lockdown, several medical providers have taken their services online. If your issue is not urgent and can be resolved over a video call, then maybe you can avoid going out in the first place. So before you book your next in-person appointment, check with your doctor about whether you can consult them online.
Always Book An Appointment
Given the current situation, waiting around endlessly at a hospital or clinic is not an ideal situation. So if you need medical help for an ailment, avoid walk-ins. Make sure you call and book an appointment in advance, and reach the centre 5-10 minutes early to complete any formalities, if any. Avoid running late for your appointment, as this can lead to a longer waiting time. If you do find yourself in a situation where you need to wait—do it outside the centre in an open area.
Take All Safety Precautions
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This goes without saying, but when it comes to keeping yourself safe, there’s no such thing as ‘going overboard’. At the minimum, you should make sure you are double masking, i.e, laying a cloth mask on top of a surgical mask. If you have access to a face shield, please wear one for added protection. And we know that wearing a PPE jacket seems like a bit much—but if you get your hands on it, wear it. You can never be too cautious!
Maintain Social Distancing
If you are waiting for your turn at the clinic, and notice there are several other patients present, always be mindful about social distancing. Make sure you are at a distance of at least six feet apart from people in every direction at all times. If you find someone standing too close to you, politely ask them to maintain distance to step back yourself.
Sanitise, Sanitise, Sanitise!
We might sound like a broken record, but we will say it again—you need to keep sanitising yourself and your belongings any time you come in contact with a high-touch surface. This can be when you are pressing lift buttons, holding open doors or putting your bag down somewhere. And when you return home from your appointment, take off and collect your clothes in a separate basket, and take shower to rid yourself of any germs.
As long as you follow these steps, your chances of contracting COVID-19 will be reduced. So stay safe, and stay healthy!
Featured Image: Pexels
