If your hospital is still running scheduled outpatient appointments, it would be a good idea to contact them and ask if you should still attend. Many places are cancelling routine appointments or conducting them over the phone or via video online chat wherever possible. There are certain conditions where face-to-face visits are still required and you should not miss a visit without first consulting your consultant, doctor, nurse or other healthcare provider.
Should I go ahead with scheduled appointments?
Or should I avoid going to medical centres or hospitals?
Remember: Even during the pandemic, do not delay
Getting medical help quickly can save your life – time is truly of the essence. Hospitals will do their utmost to treat you in a safe environment.
References
1. World Health Organization (WHO) Q&A on coronaviruses 2. Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) advice for the public: Myth busters 3. European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control: Information on COVID-19 for specific groups: the elderly, patients with chronic diseases, people with immunocompromising condition and pregnant women 4. EMA gives advice on the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatories for COVID-19 5. World Heart Federation (WHF): The link between COVID- 19 and CVD 6. COVID-19 and the cardiovascular system 7. Are patients with hypertension and diabetes mellitus at increased risk for COVID-19 infection? 8. Position Statement of the ESC Council on Hypertension on ACE-Inhibitors and Angiotensin Receptor Blockers 9. British Heart Foundation: Coronavirus: what it means for you if you have heart or circulatory disease 10. NHS: Stay at home advice 11. Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) advice for the public: When and how to use masks 12. COVID-19: chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine only to be used in clinical trials or emergency use programmes 13. WHO: How to handwash 14. WHO : Q&A : Masks and COVID-19 15. COVID-19 and Postinfection Immunity – Limited Evidence, Many Remaining Questions