As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to spread across the globe, many people are understandably worried about how it will impact their healthcare needs. Kaiser Permanente has recently released a statement addressing some of the concerns raised by their employees about surgeries during the pandemic. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at what Kaiser had to say and how it could impact patients.
What Did Kaiser Say?
In their official statement, Kaiser Permanente outlined a number of steps they are taking to ensure that patients can continue to receive essential surgical care while minimizing the risk of COVID-19 transmission. These include:
– Prioritizing surgeries based on medical urgency and patient safety considerations
– Screening all patients, visitors, and staff for COVID-19 symptoms and exposure before any surgery
– Providing personal protective equipment to all staff members involved in surgical care
– Maintaining strict sanitation and hygiene protocols in all surgical areas
How Will This Affect Patients?
For patients who need surgery, these measures may provide some reassurance that they can still receive the care they need, even during a pandemic. However, there may still be some uncertainty and anxiety about what to expect before, during, and after surgery. Patients should be sure to speak with their healthcare providers about any concerns they have and ask questions about the steps being taken to ensure their safety.
What Other Steps Can Patients Take?
In addition to staying up-to-date with guidance from healthcare providers like Kaiser Permanente, there are some steps patients can take to protect themselves and others from COVID-19:
– Practice good hand hygiene by washing hands frequently for at least 20 seconds with soap and water or using hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol content.
– Wear a face covering or mask when in public places or around others outside your household.
– Practice physical distancing by maintaining at least 6 feet of distance between yourself and others outside your household.
– Stay informed about the latest developments regarding COVID-19 and your local public health guidelines.
The Bottom Line
Overall, Kaiser Permanente’s statement about surgeries during the COVID-19 pandemic provides some useful information for patients who may be concerned about their healthcare needs. By prioritizing patient safety and taking steps to minimize the risk of COVID-19 transmission, Kaiser is striving to ensure that people can continue to receive essential surgical care as needed. However, patients should remain vigilant and take all appropriate precautions to protect themselves and their communities from COVID-19, both before and after surgery.
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