HEALTH
Physiotherapy and Coronavirus Getting used to a “new normal”. This is a phrase we are hearing more and more as we come out of lockdown. Life will not be as it was for quite some time. This is what this new normal will be like for McNaughton Physiogrange. We take the health of our patients and staff very seriously. As we begin to open the business again, we must take into consideration Government and Professional Body guidance on how to best do this to reduce the risk of catching this illness, which is a danger to life. The Coronavirus which causes the illness Covid-19 is a new one. As yet there is no vaccination against and no treatment for this illness. This has involved altering the look and layout of our clinic, training staff in the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and introducing strict infection control measures. Our appointment system has changed and now must include screening questions and risk assessment, done with Patient and Physio working together to determine the best treatment plan, particularly whether a face to face appointment is indicated or a video or phone appointment would be better. We cannot offer all our usual services, such as massage, at present. However, as the risk from Coronavirus lessens, we will be able to reduce precautions and return more towards normal. We are always happy to receive calls and will help in the best way we can. To determine this, you will be asked if you would like only a phone or video appointment which will be arranged immediately. Lockdown has shown us that we can help people a great deal, without being in the clinic. A good history can 10 | THE DELL
be taken, assessment done, education given with exercise and management plans started. Patients have told us how delighted they are in the improvements made. This has been reported in other healthcare settings as not having the stress of travel, finding parking and sitting in a waiting room are positives. After screening, as you visit our clinic you will notice differences. To help reduce infection risk we have removed all soft furnishings, fabric screens, towels and linen from the clinic. You will be given a disposable face mask and hand gel to use prior to entering the clinic and will be taken directly into a treatment room. We will keep to a socially distanced 2m during assessment, where possible, and limit “hands-on” treatment time in line with the latest guidelines to minimise the risks of infection. There will be a half hour gap before the next patient is booked to see that Physio to allow for correct removal of PPE, a full clean of the treatment room as surfaces will be washed with soap and water and then wiped with antibacterial spray before set up for the following patient. We want to do everything we can to ensure that you get the effective treatment you need as safely as possible. If you have any questions do please ask. The health column is contributed by McNaughton Physiogrange, Edinburgh www.physiogrange.co.uk @KonectMagazines
