Attending Your Appointment Safely During COVID-19

December 18, 2020

As we are all adjusting to the ‘new normal’, it is important to listen to health experts to keep ourselves and our loved ones safe. We are spending more time at home, eating out less, and postponing our vacations. While it is critical for us to practice social distancing whenever possible, it is also important for us to keep up with the regular demands of life. Luckily, there are several steps and precautions that both you and others can take to ensure the safety of all while venturing outside during these uncertain times.

We at BTC of New Bedford are committed to keeping our patients safe and healthy during the COVID-19 pandemic. You will notice several new measures in place at your next appointment to ensure that our clinical trials can continue in the safest way possible.

What to Expect at BTC of New Bedford

Prior to your appointment, a member of BTC of New Bedford will contact you to remind you of your upcoming appointment. During this call, you will be asked several screening questions about any symptoms you or anyone you live with may be experiencing, and if you have traveled recently.

When you arrive here for your scheduled visit, please knock for entry by a staff member. All doors are locked to limit the number of people in the facility at all times; we do not allow more than two patients inside at one time. No one is permitted on the premises without wearing a mask that fully covers both the nose and mouth. A temperature check is required upon entry of the building as well, and hand sanitizer is available throughout the building for use.

We screen our personnel daily to ensure that no one exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19 is on site. Our staff members wear proper Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), masks, face shields, and gloves. We regularly sanitize all high-touch areas of the facility to keep our staff and patients safe.

What You Can Do to Help

There are steps you can take to further ensure your own safety while at your appointment. It is important to follow the social distancing protocols we have in place by remaining six feet away from others whenever possible. Avoid touching your face, including your eyes, nose, and mouth. When washing your hands, be sure to do so for at least 20 seconds with soap and water.

Of course, if you are feeling ill or experiencing any of the common symptoms of COVID-19 such as fever, cough, or shortness of breath, contact BTC of New Bedford to reschedule your appointment.

The health and safety of our staff and patients is of the utmost importance to us at BTC of New Bedford. We are taking every precaution necessary to provide a welcoming and secure environment for all while continuing advancements in clinical research. We look forward to seeing you at your next appointment!