Coronavirus (COVID-19) update 20.5.2020
Osteopaths are now able to see patients face to face after telephone triage to assess and determine if a face to face appointment is necessary
Treating in person will be a joint decision based on my professional clinical judgement and you, the patient, following the 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 cannot be a completely risk-free situation.
Although this latest government guidance allows osteopaths to continue to practise, please do consider making use of my telehealth / video appointment service (via Skype / FaceTime / Zoom / WhatsApp)
High-Risk Groups
I am able to 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 and assessed if a face to face treatment is appropriate.
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 now a minimum 15-minute gap between appointments to “clean and prep”, and aerate the 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 have been removed. Children’s soft toy have been removed; plastic toys and wooden puzzles are wiped clean after each use, but I encourage you to please bring your own toys to minimise the cleaning burden.
Contactless / card payment is preferred, other payment methods can be discussed.
