As if the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) hasn’t changed enough in our daily lives – from losing a job, working from home, figuring out your child’s online classroom assignments…if you even have access to a computer, and social distancing – parents are caught between messages about "keep your kids home" and "keep up with your kids’ health needs."
It is hard. And it is possible to do both.
Despite COVID-19, kids still have a job to do – to live, learn and play. And as the adults in their lives, our job is to support them in their quest to grow up as healthy as possible. In order to keep our children healthy, they still need routine check-ups, immunizations and management of any chronic health condition, acute injury or illness.
On top of those more routine health needs, it is clear that COVID-19 is causing some children to experience more stress or anxiety, issues that a visit to the doctor can also help identify and address.
Even in the midst of the uncertainty, one thing you can count on is that healthcare providers are trained to protect your children – from traditional childhood illness and from COVID-19. Primary care physicians have a special bond with your children and we are eager to help with their medical needs – just as we have always been.
For parents or caregivers wondering if it is safe to take your child to see their doctor, please know that you can trust that their medical office is operating with an abundance of precaution and their staff has created and is maintaining a secure and safe environment by following recommendations from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
What can you expect when you visit your child’s doctor? AAP and CDC recommendations include:
- Checking providers and staff for fever and symptoms of COVID-19 prior to the start of their shift; and in some instances, throughout the day
- Scheduling well-child check-ups and sick visits during separate times of the day or on different days of the week
- Requiring all staff to universally mask, further protecting you and your children from risk of respiratory illness – and asking you to wear a mask as well
- Limiting the number of family members who can accompany your child to their appointment, to reduce the chances of transmission of the virus
- Designating separate well child and sick visit waiting areas and exam rooms
- Allotting additional time between scheduled appointments to reduce waiting time and allowing more time for sanitizing between each visit
- Enhanced cleaning and sanitizing of frequently touched surfaces and commonly used areas
Before the appointment
If you have concerns or questions about bringing your child to see their health care provider, do not hesitate to contact the office prior to your appointment. Ask in advance to ask about safety measures in place at the office. Upon scheduling your appointment, share your child’s symptoms with the scheduler. Ask about expected wait times – some offices may allow you to check in by phone and wait in your car until it is time for your appointment. And feel free to ask questions at any time during your visit.
As you look for ways to access care during the pandemic, here are a few other things to consider:
- Telemedicine – a virtual video or phone appointment – might be another option for certain types of visits. Check with the doctor’s office to see if a telehealth visit is right for what your child needs.
- People will probably look different than they did in the past – doctors and staff might be wearing a mask, gown or face shield. Prepare your child for this by talking with them in advance. Share photos and videos with your kids so they know what to expect. If your child is afraid of wearing a face covering, show them pictures of other children wearing masks. Practice wearing masks at home, let them look at themselves in the mirror and have their favorite stuffed animal join in. Let your child pick out their own mask. Look for options with their favorite colors or characters. They can even decorate them for a more personal touch.
During a time when the focus of many has shifted, remember that your child’s doctor is your partner in ensuring your child remains healthy – now more than ever.
by Dr. Carmela Sosa
Valley Children’s Healthcare
Medical Director, Guilds Center for Community Health
Medical Director, Valley Children’s Primary Care Group
Associate Program Director, Valley Children’s Pediatric Residency Program
This article originally appeared in the Fresno Bee on May 27, 2020.