The New Normal for Medical Office Visits.
Cindi Green, RN Director of Community Outreach Florida Eye Institute
CVM
Constant news surrounding the coronavirus pandemic have people wondering – “Is it safe to go to the eye doctor?” It’s comforting to know that even in today’s uncertain conditions, eye care and cataract surgery are considered extremely safe. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, cataract surgery remains the safest and most frequently performed procedure in the United States. A recent study of 200,000 Medicare beneficiaries confirmed that 99.5 percent of cataract patients experienced no severe postoperative complications after surgery. But you may wonder how the current COVID reality has changed in-person medical appointments, especially as restrictions on out-patient surgery has been lifted throughout the state. Eye care centers are actively implementing current recommendations from the CDC and the Florida Department of Health as they resume full services. “We immediately implemented enhanced safety protocols at our facility. We’ve found that patients really appreciate the extra safety measures and are happy to be back!” confirms Victor Basile, Administrator at Florida Eye Institute. “We require temperature checks and facial coverings for all patients and staff, and we’ve staggered appointment times to reduce the number of people in the facility at any one time.” It’s important to remember that regular eye checkups are vital to maintain healthy vision. Eye disease often begins without warning and can lead to serious vision loss if not treated early.
New scheduling options are now available to maintain optimal safety, including telehealth and facetime visits. Be sure to contact your doctor for solutions that best meet your needs. When you do venture out for an in-person office visit, you will notice several new procedures have been implemented to ensure your safety and wellbeing.: • • • • • • •
temperature checks for patients and staff entering the facility reduced waiting room capacity for social distancing enhanced cleaning procedures masks for employees in patient care areas patients required to wear personal facial covering while inside the facility only patients allowed to enter the facility telehealth appointments for many conditions and emergencies
IS IT SAFE TO GO TO THE EYE DR.? The New Normal for Medical Office Visits.
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Looking for a good eye doctor? Florida Eye Institute is your expert eye care partner before, during, and after the current outbreak of COVID-19. Specializing in the advanced treatment of retina, cataract, glaucoma, and corneal disease, you’ll find complete eye care from an experienced team. QUESTIONS? Call (772) 500-2020 or visit www.fleye. com for more information. Locations in Vero Beach and Sebastian. Medicare and most insurance accepted.
