The coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has swept across the country, leaving very few states unscathed. Most of the U.S. is on lockdown protocols in an effort to slow the spread of the virus. Everyone is trying to find ways to make these restrictions work, whether it’s working from home or getting together with friends and family through FaceTime or Zoom calls only. However, if you have any pre-existing medical conditions (and most people with disabled parking permits do), you’ve likely been wondering how to drive to your doctor during coronavirus lockdown. Here’s some info on how you can still get vital medical care while staying safe during the pandemic.
Can I drive during the coronavirus lockdown?
At this time, there are no restrictions on driving (although there are limitations in some areas regarding traveling to different cities or states). So, if you’re just needing to get around locally, you shouldn’t face any problems. If you need to leave the area for a medical reason, you likely won’t face any resistance at COVID-19 checkpoints that are set up in some parts of the country.
Basically, if you have an up-to-date driver’s license, you’re free to drive your vehicle at any time, since this is still in line with current stay-at-home orders. However, it is recommended by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) that you only leave your home for essential errands, which can include venturing out to receive medical care.
How can I get the medical care I need?
If you’re a disabled parking permit holder, you probably have the need for fairly frequent visits to your doctor. But you shouldn’t worry too much about how to get medical care during coronavirus lockdown – there are still plenty of ways you can access the help you need in order to stay healthy. Many health care options are still available for you (including urgent care, emergency rooms, etc.) despite the pandemic. Some areas of the country are also now starting to approve tests, treatments, and surgeries that weren’t considered essential previously. So you should get some peace of mind knowing that your health won’t be put at risk because of the lockdown.
Most doctors are also offering telehealth options to treat their patients. These can include phone or video conferencing and/or online chats to help with everything from general medication management to the diagnosis of illnesses or injuries. If you need physical tests run, or your doctor requires in-person visits for closer monitoring, there’s still a chance you might be able to be seen in person (with as many social distancing protocols in place as possible).
How do I contact my doctor’s office?
If you don’t know how and when to contact your GP during coronavirus lockdown, your best bet is to call the doctor’s office directly. There should be office staff who can help you determine how best to accommodate your health care needs. They might recommend you set up a virtual appointment with the doctor, or an in-person visit if necessary.
If you need to travel to an appointment, make sure your disabled parking permit is up-to-date so that you can access the most convenient parking places at the doctor’s office. Visit DisabledParking.com if you need help renewing your placard. Continue to follow all rules of the road (those don’t change, even during a pandemic!).
If you don’t have a doctor who can help, try contacting your insurance customer service – they might be able to connect you to a physician who’s currently seeing patients and is in your network.
How do I reach a hospital during coronavirus?
It’s best to avoid the hospital during this time because many facilities are overburdened by COVID-19 cases. Some hospitals simply don’t have the equipment or beds available to treat patients as they typically would. However, if you absolutely need to visit the hospital, you can try calling them first to ask about the safest way for you to be there. They might be able to recommend additional protocols you can follow to stay safe from contracting the virus. Of course, if it’s an emergency, don’t hesitate to head to the hospital to get evaluated by a medical professional, even if you’re concerned about contracting the virus.
Even during the pandemic, you can still drive to your doctor’s office if you need to. Local and state governments are working to make sure that everyone can still receive the medical care they need to stay healthy. Remember to practice social distancing (especially in a doctor’s office waiting room), and wash your hands frequently to get rid of germs. It’s also a good idea to stash some hand sanitizer in your pocket or your purse to use while you’re at the doctor’s office, and then as soon as you get in the car, to reduce your likelihood of catching the virus. Stay cautious and you’ll still be able to access essential health care without putting yourself in harm’s way.
Featured image by Makenna Entrikin on Unsplash