What to Know About Surgery During the Pandemic
3/17/2021
CRESTVIEW, Fla., 03/17/21 – The thought of having surgery for a nagging injury or lingering pain can make some patients feel uneasy. But, as many experts have said over the last few months, it is extremely important not to neglect medical needs during the pandemic.
Patients can feel confident seeking the medical care they need at North Okaloosa Medical Center. Numerous steps have been put in place to keep patients safe during their visits, including:
- Screening all visitors for COVID-19 exposure and symptoms before they are allowed to enter.
- Visitor restrictions reduce the number of people inside to enable social distancing and keep patients and employees safe.
- Facemasks are worn by everyone inside the hospital – patients, employees and physicians.
- Caregivers are using appropriate personal protective equipment and washing hands before and after caring for every patient.
- Cleaning protocols have been enhanced with extra measures and increased frequency, including disinfection of frequently touched surfaces and all patient care areas.
- Furniture in waiting areas arranged to support social distancing.
“We're in the fight of our lives against COVID-19, but other health risks haven't gone away,” said Daran J. Mason, M.D., a physician who is board certified in general surgery and practicing at North Okaloosa Physician Group’s Surgical Specialists office. “I have seen an increase in patients who are experiencing more significant health issues because they delayed care. NOMC has precautions in place to treat all patients who need medical care. I strongly urge people to contact their physician if they have health concerns.”
At North Okaloosa Medical Center, pre-surgery COVID-19 testing is required. Patients are asked to self-quarantine after receiving the test and before arriving at the hospital. Care for surgery patients is delivered in a non-COVID care zone in which all patients have tested negative for COVID and provided by a dedicated group of staff who only work in this area.
"Be honest with your provider about your symptoms and fears," said Dr. Mason. "It's perfectly acceptable to ask a health provider how they're keeping patients safe from the coronavirus in their facilities, or mention that you have concerns about coming in. Either way, don't let another day pass without letting a professional help you decide which symptoms can or shouldn't wait to be evaluated - that conversation could save your life."
To schedule an appointment with a surgeon or another specialist, visit www.NorthOkaloosaPhysicianGroup.com to be connected with one of their qualified providers. For more information about North Okaloosa Medical Center’s COVID-19 safety plan, click here.
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