The spring of 2020 has brought with it a lot of fear, anxiety, and uncertainty. Due to COVID-19 — most commonly known as the coronavirus — people are finding themselves quarantined at home, stockpiling enough groceries, medications, and personal hygiene products to last for several weeks. But, individuals whose medical conditions require regular infusion treatments may be wondering what happens now? What is the safest way to continue with your infusion therapy? How can you ensure your health without exposing yourself — and your loved ones — to this terrifying virus?
What is Infusion Associates doing to protect patients from COVID-19?
Each and every one of our employees has an unwavering commitment to provide life-changing care to our patients. We know that without our services, patients could potentially suffer complications resulting in hospitalization.
Protecting our ability to remain open and serve you is inherent to current public health initiatives and to protecting the livelihood of our patients. Please know that this perspective drives our decisions daily and motivates us to stay current to the ever-changing state of the clinical world.
As always, patient health and safety are our utmost priority. In aims of being as transparent as possible during these hard times, please refer to our frequently asked questions, below.
COVID-19 FAQ
Q: What has been implemented to ensure our clinics are safe for the patients?
A: In addition to our pre-existing sanitation and safety procedures, we have implemented additional policies to ensure patient safety. We have initiated phone screens prior to each visit per CDC guidelines, implemented a no visitor policy, made strategic use of private rooms, and increased cleaning and sanitizing procedures.
Q: What are you doing with staff who are not feeling well?
A: Our staff is well aware of the importance of remaining in self-quarantine in case of illness or potential exposure. Since we offer paid time off to our employees, it’s easier for them to always err on the side of caution. In addition, we have reduced our labor force to include only those who are necessary for direct patient care. We have developed a flow chart and a standardized assessment tool to determine whether the remaining staff should report to work.
Q: Do you allow patients who have been exposed to visit the facility?
A: No. We are screening patients prior to their appointments via phone per CDC guidelines. If there is a concern for patient safety, we reschedule his/her appointment.
Q: Do you screen patients for exposure?
A: Yes, we screen them twice. Once over the phone prior to their visit, and again when they arrive at our facilities.
Q: Will Infusion Associates remain open?
A: We are doing everything we can to remain open. Without our services, patients could potentially suffer complications resulting in hospitalization. Protecting our ability to remain open and servicing patients is inherent to current public health initiatives. This perspective is driving our decisions.
Q: How difficult will it be to reschedule an appointment should I cancel?
A: Keeping your scheduled appointments is very important to us. We anticipate that we may need to increase our hours of operation and staffing in the next few weeks to accommodate appointments.
Q: Is there a plan to keep patients on schedule in the event of closing?
A: Our goal is to remain open. This is why we are taking extreme measures to reduce exposure and risk at our site. We are not an elective offering, but rather a necessity to maintain health. We take this charge very seriously.
Q: Does the set up in both the waiting room and infusion room allow at least six feet distance between individuals?
A: We are moving patients from the waiting room strategically to provide for social distancing. We are also implementing a no visitor policy.
If Your Doctor Has Recommended Infusion Therapy, Let Infusion Associates Help You
At Infusion Associates, we provide medically-prescribed infusion therapy for patients with chronic conditions in a welcoming and friendly environment. Our team of healthcare professionals is committed to making the experience as comfortable as possible. We always inform patients of any potential side effects and answer all their questions before starting treatment. In addition, we have a Registered Pharmacist on-staff to make the process as seamless as possible.
If you would like to refer a patient to us or want to inquire about the treatments we offer, you can contact us by calling us at (616) 954-0600 or filling out this form.