04/09/2020
Dr. Landis Here -
In March, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid began allowing for Telehealth visits instead of in-person visits, in order to reduce the risk of infection of both patients and staff. We have been using the Zoom app and other secure 2-way video applications to see both new consults and follow ups.
I have to say I have been amazed with how well this has worked out. Although I was a bit skeptical at first, I find that patients love the ability to talk to their doctor from the convenience of their own home, and I love the ability to quickly and easily check up on our existing patients in a way that is much more meaningful than a telephone call.
We have been offering Zoom consultations for new patients these past 3 weeks, as well. Although one would eventually have to visit our outpatient center for treatment, this allows us to have a meaningful first evaluation to determine if treatment would be beneficial and answer questions. It also works very well for second-opinion consultations. Thus it can reduce the foot traffic in clinic substantially, minimizing risk to all.
Having fewer patients in the 'clinic side' means that the waiting room is clean and empty, and those patients on treatment can come in and out often with only the most minimal contact with the staff. And our staff has extra time to clean down all surfaces between each patient.
Telehealth has been a huge success and I hope that we will be able to continue offering this service in the future. Whether you are in-town or out-of town, feel free to call us to setup a Telehealth visit.
Sincerely,
Daniel Landis M.D., Ph.D
