COVID-19 – Our Current Protocols In Massachusetts
COVID-19 first impacted us and our practice when all the precautions began to get locked in place in Southeast Massachusetts, and no one knew what to expect.
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We had to reduce in-person appointments, and we had very limited staffing.
We had to think outside the box so we could continue to look after our patients’ hearing health to the best of our ability.
How could we help people if we couldn’t see them in our offices? This was when we started to use video conferencing and phone calls as much as possible.
Once we knew we could welcome patients back into the office, we set about deciding what our safety protocols would be – steps that would protect the safety of both patients and staff as much as was within our ability.
Increased Safety Protocols For COVID-19
Most of these protocols we started with in March 2020 are still in place.
- We wore masks and gloves. We still require masks by all employees and visitors to the office, and our team uses masks with clear mouth shields so patients can lip read if they need to.
- We had shields and gowns available. We still have acrylic shields.
- We sanitized every surface and piece of equipment between each visit. We still sanitize throughout the day.
- We added air purifiers to every office, and these are still in place.
- We reduced the amount of people in the office at one time. We still encourage distancing in the waiting area.
- We do not ask patients for proof of vaccination.
- If you or someone in your home has been feeling sick or has been diagnosed with COVID-19, we ask that you reschedule your appointment.
The Impacts Of COVID-19 On The Way We Provide Services
We are basically back to normal in the terms of having people back for in-person visits and our opening hours.
Despite the challenges we faced with COVID-19, one good thing to come from these difficult times is that our office and our air are now cleaner than ever, and we have found more ways to connect with our patients through remote visits.
Our patients have been amazing and so understanding, especially in the beginning, when we were all trying to figure things out together.
Alternatives To In-Office Visits For New And Existing Patients
We don’t currently do at-home visits, so we are unable to come to you to do a hearing assessment, but we can do a number of things over the phone or via a video call, such as hearing aid adjustments and troubleshooting hearing aid problems.
We offer curbside hearing aid services for cleanings and repairs. If you would rather stay in the car to drop off or pick up hearing aids, or swing by to ask questions, we are happy to come to you.
Postponing Consultation Until After The Pandemic?
There’s no need to postpone your hearing care now that we know more about the virus and how it spreads. Our office is safe and clean, and we take all precautions to ensure the safety of our patients and staff.
If you still feel uncomfortable at the thought of coming in, we will try to do our best to help you remotely. Also, if you’d still rather wait, know we will still be here and ready to help when you do feel comfortable coming in.
Rest Assured
The health and safety of our South Shore Hearing Center patients and staff is of utmost importance. We continue to take all safety precautions seriously and require all visitors to the office to wear a mask.
Don’t hesitate to give us a call. Let us know what your difficulties are, and we’ll figure out a solution to how we can get you seen. We understand that everyone’s situation is unique.
We want your hearing to be as good as it can be, and we’re sure you do too. Contact us at our Hanover or Weymouth location, or request a callback, to see what we can do for you.
