A Message from Dr. Dlugosz Re Covid Crisis
Hello, this is Dr. Dlugosz. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic and a government ban on travel, we are unfortunately unable to see you for non-essential health issues such as annual physicals, wellness exams, and chronic non emergent issues at this time. This is to promote the safety of yourself as well as others who are more vulnerable to this disease that is rapidly spreading. A provider may in fact need to see you in the office for a face-to-face visit if they feel it is not something that can be sufficiently done over the phone and to avoid an unnecessary ER visit. We are working tirelessly on your behalf to get us all through this worldwide crisis. We appreciate your understanding. Please stay home and stay healthy !
There are a very few exceptions when a virtual visit just cannot be done for a presenting complaint. Therefore, to avoid an unnecessary emergency room visit, a face-to-face visit may be allowed upon the discretion of the provider as long as that patient is not symptomatic with any semblance of fever, cough, or shortness of breath.
There is still limited to no availability of COVID-19 testing in Erie county. It is currently only available to those with severe cases in the hospital setting. We encourage you to continue to stay at home and practice the concept of social isolation/distancing. You should seek emergency room attention if you are experiencing unmanageable shortness of breath or chest pain.
If you are concerned about a possible exposure but are experiencing no symptoms, be hypervigilant regarding the 3 cardinal symptoms of fever, cough, shortness of breath. These typically appear 2 to 14 days after an exposure. Wash your hands for 20 seconds, avoid touching your face, and continue the practice of social distancing.
If you are concerned about symptoms of COVID, there is still no testing available and no FDA approved treatment. It is still standard of care to stay at home and isolate yourself. Limit contact with pets. Cover your cough with a tissue and wash your hands for 20 seconds. Clean high touch surface areas daily inside your home. Use Tylenol as needed for comfort and fever management. Avoid the use of nebulizers and anti-inflammatories. Do not hesitate to call us if you have any further questions. It is only appropriate to seek emergency room attention for COVID if you are experiencing shortness of breath that is unmanageable, persistent chest pain, new confusion or inability to arouse, or blue lips/face. Otherwise, continue to stay at home to avoid further spread of this virus, especially to those most vulnerable.