They might be choosing to stay away for fear of catching coronavirus, or because they don’t want to put pressure on the health system at this time, or both.
But particularly if you’re someone with a chronic health condition, it’s essential you continue to seek medical care routinely, and especially in an emergency.
Anxiety and Fear
Delaying or avoiding medical care despite health problems is not a new concept. People often downplay the severity of their symptoms, believe they will resolve on their own, or perceive they can manage themselves at home.Why It’s Important to Continue to Seek Care
People with chronic health conditions may need to seek medical care for a range of reasons. This could be routine care for a chronic disease such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, diabetes, cancer, or bowel or heart disease.Importantly, if people delay seeking care for chronic illnesses, we may see an increase in preventable deaths.
You Can Go Out for Medical Care
While the global public health messaging urges people to stay home to save lives, it’s important to understand one of the key exemptions is medical treatment. And this doesn’t apply only to people with COVID-19 symptoms.People with chronic conditions may already be receiving advice from their health professionals about how regular appointments will be conducted.
To minimize risks to staff and patients, many health services are offering telehealth appointments (via phone or video conference). It’s best to contact your GP or specialist by phone prior to your appointment to see whether this service is available and appropriate.
There will be times when a telephone or video-conference is not suitable, such as when your doctor needs to perform a physical examination, administer therapies including medications, or you need tests such as blood tests or X-rays.
If you do need to attend a clinic or hospital in person, you should be assured they’re taking additional precautions to prevent the spread of infection during this time.
If your symptoms get worse, you should still contact your GP or specialist if this is your normal course. This is important even if you don’t think your symptoms are urgent.
Some Practical Tips
The Heart Foundation offers the following advice for people living with chronic conditions during COVID-19:- Keep looking after your health and stay connected with your doctor
- Practice physical distancing and good hand hygiene
- Stay active and eat a healthy diet