March 23rd, 2020
Last updated: March 23rd, 2020
WellHealth is taking the threat of novel Coronavirus seriously, and we want to ensure our patients that our clinical teams have deployed all appropriate protocols to help stop the spread of novel Coronavirus and to continue to deliver the best primary care experience to our patients.
What is novel Coronavirus?
Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses that are common in many different species of animals, including camels, cattle, cats, and bats. Rarely, animal coronaviruses can infect people and then spread between people such as with MERS-CoV, SARS-CoV, and now with this new virus (named COVID-19).
COVID-19 is a betacoronavirus, like MERS-CoV and SARS-CoV. The origins of COVID-19 are still inconclusive. The genetic sequences from infected U.S. patients are similar to those from cases originating from China, suggesting a likely single, recent emergence of this virus from a single source.
What are the symptoms of novel Coronavirus?
For confirmed coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) cases, reported illnesses have ranged from mild symptoms to severe illness and death. Symptoms can include fever, shortness of breath, and coughing. These symptoms may also be indicative of another illness.
How do I prevent novel Coronavirus?
Frequently wash hands with soap and water. Scrub for at least 20 seconds. Avoid touching eyes, nose, and mouth with unclean hands Cover nose and mouth when sneezing and coughing Minimize interactions with symptomatic individuals Keep hands, objects, and surfaces clean
What do I do if I think I have novel Coronavirus?
Stay home and minimize contact with others Cover nose and mouth when sneezing and coughing Keep hands, objects, and surfaces clean When outside the home, wear surgical masks to limit the transmission of the virus Contact your local hospital or health authority for further guidance If you are exhibiting symptoms such as fever, coughing, or shortness of breath please don't come to the clinic. WellHealth is happy to offer telemedicine visits with our providers for our patients that would like to schedule a virtual consult.
A telemedicine visit will allow us to help you assess the risk level of your symptoms, and to help you navigate to testing facilities as necessary, as they become available in our area. To schedule a telemedicine visit, please call our clinic at (469) 789-2595 to schedule a virtual visit.
How is WellHealth preparing?
WellHealth is continuing to receive information from local and national health authorities on a daily basis. WellHealth’s clinical team is staying up to date on all COVID-19 management guidelines. WellHealth is taking this spread of novel Coronavirus very seriously and the safety of our patients is of the utmost priority. WellHealth is taking every precaution to ensure a safe environment for our patients and staff. We’ve implemented enhanced pathogen protection, patient management, and triaging protocols to minimize the infection spread and continue providing the best patient experience.
These protocols include:
Ongoing disinfection of our lobby, exam rooms, common areas and other high touch surfaces Available hand disinfection and masks for patients and employees Employees continuing to follow best practice infection prevention methods such as increased hand washing after every patient and on the hour, and using advanced persistent hand disinfectants New phone and check-in screening processes to proactively identify potentially infected patients Enhanced procedures to transport patients within our facility Consistent utilization of telemedicine to remotely triage patients within the safety of their home
WellHealth will continue to quickly implement new protocols as directed by local and national health authorities.
How is novel Coronavirus Treated?
Treatment for the novel Coronavirus is along the same approach as other Viral diseases. No specific treatment or vaccine exists at this time. Treatment aims to be supportive, ensuring adequate respiratory function and control of secondary infections. This is especially important in populations more likely to have severe complications with the disease, such as the elderly, those with underlying respiratory or cardiovascular disorders. Isolation is used to minimize spread.
Does WellHealth have COVID-19 testing?
WellHealth is helping the community fight this epidemic is new COVID-19 screening and testing at our clinics. WellHealth has been in constant communication with local and national medical labs to procure COVID-19 test kits. We have received a limited number of testing kits and will begin testing immediately.
For COVID-19 testing, a virtual screening is required prior to scheduling a test. Please call us at 469-789-2595 to schedule televisit. You can also visit covid19.wellhealthdfw.com and complete the form and a member of your care team will contact you to schedule. Our providers will be able to conduct a virtual screening and determine whether you're eligible for testing.
WellHealth will continue to monitor the guidance as issued by healthcare authorities and will continue to provide updates as we receive them.
