Coronavirus (COVID-19) update August 2020
I am seeing patients for face to face appointments. We still need to do a telephone triage before booking.
Treating in person is a joint decision based on my professional clinical judgement and you, the patient, as well as updated guidance regarding osteopathic practice it as it changes
Using established and updated measures and precautions, I consider there is a low-risk of transmission within the clinic of the virus SARS-CoV-2, that causes COVID-19. However, it is essential to understand that attending a face to face, with hands-on treatment is not a completely risk-free situation.
Latest government guidance allows us to see people in person; but I am still offering telehealth / video appointment service (via Skype / FaceTime / Zoom / WhatsApp) for those who prefer.
High-Risk Groups
I can see patients who are in the moderate risk / vulnerable category (those who are pregnant, are 70 or older, have a non severe lung condition, have a chronic illness or who have a condition or are taking medication that means they have a higher risk of getting infections) after we have done a telephone triage.
If you are in a high risk / extremely vulnerable demographic (you have been diagnosed with cancer. are immune-compromised for various reasons) and have received a letter from the NHS.informing you of this, you are recommended NOT to receive face-to-face osteopathic care at this time. If your condition is very urgent ie: you would otherwise be attending your GP / Consultant / A&E, please do call and I will offer what advice I am able.
Hygiene Policy and Infection Control
Our health and safety is my priority; this is how I am responding:
I have updated infection control measures alongside my normal clinic hygiene procedures. There is a 15-minute gap between appointments to “clean and prep”, and aerate my treatment room and reception area. My sink is available as required for you to wash hands / face, there is fresh paper towel for you to dry hands / face
Additional Precautions and Infection Control Measures
I will be wearing PPE for your protection including a face mask, disposable gloves, and a change of clinic coat for each patient until guidance changes.
My treatment couch now has a wipe clean sheet which is now sprayed with disinfectant and wiped down with medical-grade sanitiser between appointments.
To offer an extra level of protection, the new gap between patients allows time for sanitising / disinfecting of equipment and fixtures, aeration, changing PPE as well as supporting distancing
Touchable hard surfaces that have been used will be sanitised between patients; including door handles, taps, card payment machines, chair, desk, etc.
Soft furnishings such as seat cushions and children’s soft toy have been removed; plastic toys and wooden puzzles are wiped clean after each use, but I encourage you to bring your own toys to minimise the cleaning burden.
Contactless / card payment is preferred, cash is accepted, other payment methods can be discussed.
