5 reasons to get in-person care

While many healthcare visits can be done via video, below are five key scenarios in which you should always visit a health facility immediately or schedule an in-person appointment:

Always go in person if:

1. You experience a medical emergency, such as chest pain, shortness of breath, difficulty speaking, uncontrolled bleeding or loss of consciousness. Call 9-1-1 or go to the nearest emergency room immediately.
2.  You’re overdue on a vaccine or you need a flu shot.
3. You have a chronic condition that requires an in-person test, evaluation or care.
4. You’re overdue for a recommended preventive screening.
5. Your physician or another medical professional recommends that you should.

PeaceHealth follows strict protocols to ensure you can safely get the care you need. In fact, visiting a medical facility is one of the safest things you can do right now.  According to a number of reputable health organizations, sitting in your doctor’s waiting room is considered a low COVID-19 risk activity. It’s just as safe (or safer than) many common activities that you’ve likely already participated in — including grocery shopping, getting your haircut, ordering takeout, or going to the beach.

As you do for other activities in the public, for an in-person visit, you will need to wear a face mask, observe social distancing, sanitize your hands and take other steps for everyone's safety. And if you're experiencing signs of COVID-19, please tell your provider before you arrive for your care.