Care providers are taking extra precautions and implementing proactive measure to ensure the health and safety of all patients. While this global health crisis is catching the world by surprise, professionals serving high risk communities are stepping up and implementing extensive infection control plans. Dialysis clinics are rising to this challenge, by doing the following:
Clinics are collaborating and working in real-time with local, state and national public health officials and agencies
Medical staff are collaborating with the Centers of Disease Control (CDC), as well as other leading experts, to inform clinic protocols and update them as necessary. Having the latest information is essential to create the safest environment for patients dialyzing at facilities and at home.
Clinic staff are receiving COVID-19 specific training
Clinicians are extensively trained in infection control, but additional training is being provided to help mitigate the spread of the virus. The COVID-19 training educates staff on the best practices to help prevent transmission of this virus, including proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE), cleaning protocols, interpersonal interactions, access site sanitation and more.
Nonessential individuals and visiting patients are not allowed in clinics
Nonessential visitors are no longer allowed to accompany patients into dialysis centers, which includes family members and visiting patients. These precautions help prevent the spread of the virus and allow patients and staff to practice effective social distancing, as recommended by the CDC.
Clinicians are performing screenings for acute respiratory illness
Essential visitors, patients and staffed are screened for symptoms prior to entering the treatment floor. Patients who display certain symptoms are sent to a local hospital or dialyzed in an isolated area away from other patients.
Telemedicine and digital infrastructure are allowing patients to connect with their care providers
Many dialysis clinics have created digital communication platforms to stay connected with their patients. These phone apps and online meeting platforms are important tools that allow more patients to ask questions from home, maintain routine checkups and continue dialyzing safely at home.
While dialysis clinics are ramping up their efforts to maintain clean facilities and keep every patient safe, it’s good to know that our health care providers take extraordinary measures every day to protect everyone. To learn more about how dialysis centers are adhering to health and safety standards during COVID-19, see the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.
And remember, we all have a part to play in keeping our community healthy.