Sturdy Memorial Associates COVID-19 Update: Outpatient Visits
Given the recent declaration of Coronavirus, the virus that causes COVID-19, as a Pandemic by the World Health Organization, we want to assure you that your doctors at Sturdy Memorial Associates are taking steps to reduce the risk of potential exposure and are ready to care for you and your family members.
SARS-CoV-2 is a new type of coronavirus causing COVID-19, which is a respiratory illness. The most common symptoms include a fever, cough, and/or shortness of breath. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms and have a scheduled appointment, we ask that you please call us so we can discuss whether or not you should keep your appointment or reschedule for a later date.
To limit the risk of infection, we strongly encourage patients who are over the age of 60 or considered to be at higher-risk for severe COVID-19 disease to reschedule non-urgent medical appointments as appropriate. You are considered higher-risk if you have a serious chronic medical condition such as heart disease, diabetes, lung disease, or are immunocompromised. If you are unsure whether or not you should reschedule, contact your doctor's office to discuss further.
Same day sick appointments are still available. Please call your primary care physician's office to schedule an appointment. We kindly ask that you do not show up to the office without a scheduled appointment. When calling to schedule an appointment, we will be asking you the following questions:
- Do you have a fever, sore throat, new onset cough, respiratory or other cold symptoms?
- Have you recently traveled to anywhere outside of the United States in the last 14 days?
- Have you had recent contact with anyone who has been confirmed of or suspected of COVID-19 in the last 14 days?
By asking you these questions, we are able to assess your risk for Coronavirus. If your answers indicate that you are low-risk for the virus, we will schedule your sick visit as appropriate. If your answers suggest that you may have Coronavirus, we will ask you to stay home, and your doctor will determine whether further testing for COVID-19 is needed. Asymptomatic patients are not being tested.
We anticipate high call volumes during this time and will work expeditiously to provide you with assistance. We kindly ask for your patience during this time. We encourage you to visit the CDC website as it has the most up to date and accurate information about this virus.
Thank you for your cooperation and understanding.
Blair Bisher
Chief Operating Officer
Sturdy Memorial Associates
Joseph FX Casey
Executive Director
Sturdy Memorial Associates
