COVID & Clinic (Policy Update!)
Below is the information I sent out in my July 2024 clinic newsletter. I wanted to include it here so everyone could find it easily! If you have any questions or want to check on current policies, don’t hesitate to email me. - Kate
COVID is really spreading right now in Iowa! I've talked one-on-one with people but haven't addressed it in newsletters, so I will take this opportunity to share what I always do to protect you when you're in the clinic, and share a few requests I have of you when you come into the clinic.
What I am doing to protect you:
The treatment room has a HEPA filter that is always running. This filter is rated for a much larger space, so it replaces the air in the room multiple times per hour!
I'm currently wearing a mask with patients.
I'm regularly cleaning frequently touched areas with appropriate cleaners.
I always take a COVID test when I am unsure if my symptoms are allergies or an upper respiratory infection.
I stay out of the clinic if I have been exposed to COVID.
I am fully vaccinated for COVID, and will be getting the next booster when it is available.
I stay up-to-date on current variants and their changing symptoms so I can be aware of what symptoms to look out for.
What I ask you do to protect me (and other patients!):
Wear a mask in the clinic if you are having upper respiratory tract symptoms, such as coughing, frequent sneezing, sore throat, etc., even if you think it is allergies! You're, of course, welcome to wear a mask regardless of symptoms - but if you do have symptoms, please come prepared with a mask.
Please reschedule your appointment if you are feeling unwell, or switch to a virtual appointment. I am happy to provide home care suggestions to help with colds, such as food therapy (including specific teas, foods, etc.) and herbal recommendations. There are many things you can do at home to take good care of yourself, too!
Testing (using rapid tests) if you are feeling unwell, particularly within a few hours before your appointment. This variant seems to be showing symptoms earlier for people, even if they initially have a negative test, so continue testing for a few days after your symptoms start to make sure! You can still easily find tests on Amazon.
Stay home if you have tested positive for COVID.
If you're not sure what to do about your appointment, don't hesitate to contact me! You can email or text me, and we can figure it out together.
As many patients know, I have chronic health problems that are made worse by having COVID, so I am really appreciative of people being careful about COVID exposure in the clinic. Additionally, I have many patients with compromised immune systems, so reducing exposure in the clinic is very important!
I know we've been dealing with COVID for over 4 years now, and it is easy to feel exhausted with it all. It can feel very isolating and awkward to be the only person wearing a mask in public or to ask people if they have tested for COVID - I feel it too! (Even this email feels a bit awkward!) But again and again, I return to the idea that we truly need to practice and rely on community care and thinking of how we can take care of each other.