With COVID-19 cases surging across the nation, the number of intensive care unit and emergency room beds is diminishing at many hospitals. A high level of virus-related admissions is causing certain elective surgeries to be canceled, as well as delaying treatment for some patients who have suffered a stroke, heart attack, life-threatening injury or other condition.
According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, many people have delayed health care due to their fear of contracting COVID-19. However, foregoing primary care and chronic condition management often results in poor medical outcomes and complex hospital care in the future.
Schedule routine exams to monitor chronic disease conditions
In the U.S., approximately six in 10 people live with at least one chronic disease, such as heart disease, stroke, cancer or diabetes. These and other serious medical conditions are the nation’s leading causes of death and disability, as well as the primary driver of health care costs. When patients miss routine exams and diagnostic tests, warning signs and symptoms may go unidentified.
Chronic illnesses require long-term management to improve a patient’s quality of life and emotional well-being. It is vitally important to receive routine and preventative medical care, which is still safe and available from health care providers. Telehealth is also an essential source of care during the pandemic. If your family does not have primary or specialty care doctors, now is the time to find a medical home that meets your needs.
“Most chronic diseases can be prevented by scheduling regular health screenings and making smart choices about diet and exercise,” advises Dr. Vishaal Buch, Medical Director at San Fernando Community Health Center (SFCHC). “Delaying medical care and chronic disease management can result in serious health risks and hospitalizations for individuals and families, especially in our most vulnerable and underserved communities.”
Don't put off the care you need
Serving patients throughout the San Fernando Valley, the San Fernando Community Health Center (SFCHC) has been a trusted, patient-centered health care home for the community since 1924. Its designation as a Federally Qualified Health Center allows it to provide state-of-the art health care services, prevention and education regardless of income or ability to pay. For more information, visit the SFCHC website.
