COVID-19 has caused many to delay appointments they would otherwise prioritize. As businesses and public spaces begin to reopen, you may be asking yourself if it’s really safe to schedule your next audiology appointment. We want to let you know that we are taking precautions to ensure our staff and patients remain as safe as possible as we reopen our clinics.
What We’re Doing to Stay Safe
The CDC and the American Academy of Audiology have issued guidelines for safely reopening medical clinics. We’re following these guidelines closely and have outlined the measures we’re taking below:
- We are booking appointments with gaps long enough to disinfect the exam rooms after each patient.
- We are asking you to fill out intake paperwork ahead of time and submit it digitally. This will ensure you spend less time in the waiting room and also negates the need to hand documents back and forth.
- We are screening staff and patients for possible symptoms on a daily basis.
- We are restricting our waiting room occupancy so people can be spaced out as much as possible.
- We are getting patients into exam rooms as quickly as possible to avoid prolonged contact with other patients.
- Patients and staff must wear face masks at all times. If there is a need to remove the mask for lip-reading or other communication barriers, it is done from a safe distance away.
- Loved ones are asked to stay home during this time, although you are welcome to include them via FaceTime call during the appointment.
- We are offering curbside service for things like repairs and battery pick-ups.
- We are mailing out supplies whenever possible (small fee may be included).
Weigh the Pros and Cons
While it may be scary to venture out into a world that feels unsafe, it is important to keep your health and wellbeing in mind. If you’re suffering from loneliness, isolation, relationship problems or other issues related to your hearing loss, consider the benefits of seeking prompt treatment.
For more information about office safety or to schedule an appointment, call The Hearing & Balance Center today.