In the COVID-19 age of social distancing and stressed-out healthcare workers, people might not want to keep their doctor appointments but the County is urging residents to mind their health and address health concerns beyond the virus. Reporter Heather Clisby has the details…
San Bernardino County residents are now encouraged to not cancel doctor appointments and to not avoid important surgeries even as the nation and the world battle COVID-19. Parents with young children especially, should not avoid important medical check-ups and critical vaccinations.
Governor Gavin Newsom relaxed his stay-at-home order on April 22 specifically to enable hospitals and doctors to resume elective surgeries and the medical community is urging patients who need non-COVID-19 care to actively pursue treatment. County physicians are taking extra steps to minimize risks of contracting the coronavirus, such as maintaining patient isolation at every stage.
Pediatricians have reported a decline in patients and express concern about children missing crucial vaccinations. Diseases like measles can pose greater risks to kids than the coronavirus, and those who fail to get vaccinated can spread the disease to others.
“It is important that those citizens with pressing health care needs get the help they need at their local health care facilities,” said Dr. Troy Pennington, emergency room physician at Arrowhead Regional Medical Center. “Your health is essential, even during a pandemic. Our hospitals are safe and prepared to handle your medical needs. Postponing or neglecting your health care can have short and long-term detrimental effects on your health.”
