Dear Prime Medical Care Patient:
We hope you, your family and friends have been staying safe!
We at Prime Medical Care are planning a phased reopening and your response to the news has been extraordinary and are excited to reconnect with you.
As we’re sure you’ve noticed, much of the regional conversation around COVID-19 has shifted to discussions about antibody testing and how to maintain social and physical distancing as businesses and communities begin the gradual process of opening their doors.
We know that many of you have postponed seeking health care during the peak of the COVID-19 crisis, and are now thinking about seeking care and testing. As your healthcare provider, we want to be sure you have the information and services you need to make the best choices for the health and safety of you and your family.
Below, we’ve tried to address some of the pressing questions that may be on your mind:
Is It Safe to Visit a Medical Office?
We understand you may have concerns about visiting a medical office. Please know, we have instituted stringent cleaning practices and social distancing efforts, including the below.
Daily screening of all patients and employees using non-contact infrared thermometers
Patients, employees and visitors are required to wear masks or face coverings at all times
Strict social and physical distancing measures
Minimal time spent in waiting areas
Chairs spaced at least 6 feet apart
Low patient volumes
Restriction of visitors (unless medically necessary)
Rigorous cleaning and disinfecting of all areas with special focus on
Waiting rooms
Exam rooms
Frequently touched surfaces, e.g. doorknobs, terminals, etc.
We request that all patients fill out a questionnaire and bring it with you if you are to come in for an in-person appointment
What can I expect my medical care to be?
Fast pass visits: Patients needing Preventive Physical Exams, Pre Op Evaluations, Medical issues that cannot be handled through a telehealth visit will be seen in the office.They will be able to bypass the waiting room and go straight to the treatment room without any waiting
We also provide virtual visits (done from the privacy of your home).
Where can I get tested for COVID19:
In any local drive through facility run by the county of residence.
We will also be offering the testing in our office on a case by case basis after evaluation.
Should I Get an Antibody Test?
An antibody test will show with a high likelihood whether you’ve been exposed to the coronavirus that causes COVID-19. We don’t yet know to what degree people with coronavirus antibodies are protected from getting COVID-19 again. However, this information may help you to better understand your level of risk and plan accordingly during these uncertain times.
Antibody testing should not be done if you are currently experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 infections such as fevers, chills, cough, shortness of breath, or you’re otherwise not feeling well. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, please call us for a virtual/telehealth visit for evaluation.
Where Can I Get an Antibody Test?
Any Lab including Quest, Labcorp or at our office once we start Phlebotomy services in June.
Established patients can call to schedule an in-office or virtual visit to discuss which test is best for them and how to get tested.
We hope this helps you understand the options that are available, including ways to take action for essential care, as well as COVID-19 testing, which may not only relieve some personal anxiety, but also help to contain the future spread of the virus.
Where Can I Get the COVID Vaccine?
Vaccine sign up links:
https://www.rwjbh.org/patients-visitors/what-you-need-to-know-about-covid-19/schedule-a-vaccine/
https://mountainsidehosp.com/covid19vaccine
https://www.cvs.com/vaccine/intake/store/covid-screener/covid-qns
https://www.virtua.org/vaccine
Call us at 732 632 1700, reach out by portal message for appointments or questions.
Stay safe and be well.
—Staff and Dr Kavitha Thukkaram