3/31/20
To our valued patients:
We at Desert Spine and Sports Physicians appreciate the trust you place in us and want to inform you about how we are addressing the coronavirus (COVID-19) situation.
We are closely monitoring events in our local community, state, and nation and continuously updating our policies and protocols as a result of new information.
At this time, in accordance with state and CDC guidelines, we are implementing changes to our office and procedure appointments.
In regards to office appointments, we are now offering Telehealth for both new and established patients. During this visit, one of our providers will conduct a visit with audio and visual for evaluation and management. If you are unable to utilize a platform that offers video (ie Zoom, Facetime), we are also able to conduct the visit via telephone alone. We will continue seeing patients in-person for certain reasons such as a provider’s need for a clinical evaluation with full physical examination or if the patient is unable to use Telehealth and prefers an in-person visit.
In regards to procedure (injection) appointments, Governor Ducey issued an Executive Order to cancel non-essential or elective surgeries in order to preserve personal protective equipment (PPE), however this does NOT include injections or smaller procedures in which gloves are the primary PPE used. Therefore, per the Executive Order Clarification, pain management procedures, depending upon the specific case, can be considered an essential procedure. If you feel your pain is “unmanageable,” we will continue to provide this service.
Our office is continuing to follow all recommended guidance from public health authorities, including best practices for hygiene, infection control and medical professional team health. Our highest priority is to keep all of our patients and staff as safe as possible. Thank you for your continued trust and loyalty as we work together to fight this virus. We look forward to continuing to serve you and hope that you remain healthy and well.
Sincerely,
Desert Spine and Sports Physicians