Is it safe to see my doctor for a check up right now?

Dr. Jonathan Aliota
Interventional Cardiologist
Medical Advisor September 2020

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Is it safe to see my doctor for a check up right now?

With the recent resurgence of COVID-19 infections in the Harris county area, many have become worried about making trips outside their homes and are especially nervous about going to see their physicians. People are wisely skeptical about the cleaning practices of the office, the consistency of screening procedures, and of course, that a person sitting next to them in the waiting room may indeed have COVID-19. Luckily, you have options so you can continue to tend to your health. If you feel an office visit is just a “check in” and you have questions requiring time with your doctor, then a video visit would likely work well.  However, if you feel there are more serious issues that need to be addressed, or that an in-person visit is more appropriate, call ahead of your appointment to ask about their COVID-19 policies.

My office, like many, is following very strict guidelines when seeing patients in person. Each patient is screened upon entry to the building, there are patient limits for the waiting room and each exam room is cleaned thoroughly between each visit. Masks are required upon entry and must remain on patients and staff the entire time they are in the office (often with face shields). For now, continue to wear a mask in any public spaces, be sure to take your required medicines, strive to eat a balanced and healthy diet, and do not forget to stay active.  Remember, people who can achieve daily exercise are healthier and have a better quality of life.

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