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NO ONE KNOWS HOW, OR WHEN, THE PANDEMIC WILL END. BUT DON’T AVOID YOUR HEALTH CARE PROVIDER BECAUSE OF IT. By Dawn Olsen
“But then COVID-19 happened.” It’s a relatively new phrase, one that often follows “We were going to go on vacation,” “We had a party planned,” or “We were supposed to get married.” We use it to describe our canceled plans, our postponed events and our delayed haircuts. And while it’s okay to wait for a trim, there’s one thing we can’t put off: doctor’s visits.
TOO LATE TO WAIT Since March, the number of people who have visited hospitals and doctors’ offices has significantly decreased. Social distancing measures have contributed to the decline in visits. So have, unsurprisingly, patient concerns about transmitting coronavirus to health care workers and vice versa. However, annual exams, check-ups and screenings promote continued health — pandemic or not. “Waiting until there’s a problem is not ideal,” said Dr. Amanda Furr, Physician Executive for Primary Care at Community Health Network. “We encourage people to come in for preventative visits and routine screenings. Things like colonoscopies and mammograms are so very important. We can detect early signs of illness, possibly before the patient has symptoms.” In other words, don’t wait until things calm down or return to “normal.” It could be detrimental to your health. Significantly detrimental.
54 kitindy.com
