At Premier Medical, we are committed to providing the best possible care for our eye, ear, nose and throat patients and to treat each patient as an individual with the utmost care and concern.  We will continue to monitor the Coronavirus (COVID-19) and provide updates to you as we make them and receive them from our authorities at national, state and local personnel.  You can also find the latest updates at CDC.gov https://www.cdc.gov/, National Institute of Health (NIH) https://www.nih.gov/ and the Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH) http://www.alabamapublichealth.gov/.

To protect the health of our patients, visitors and staff and to help minimize the potential exposure, we have implemented these guidelines for future patient appointments:

All patients will be asked a series of screening questions to determine the best course of treatment when scheduling an appointment and again at registration.

We will allow only 1 visitor per patient. That visitor will also be subject to screening questions.

Patients will be given the option to check in and go back to their car and wait until the clinic area is ready for them.  The clinic staff will call the patient when they are ready on their cell phone and at that time will be taken back to a room to help minimize the social contact.

If you have a fever, cough or shortness of breath; if you suspect you have been exposed to the Coronavirus; or have come in contact with others who have potentially been exposed, we ask that you PLEASE DO NOT ENTER OUR FACILITY. Call our office immediately to reschedule your appointment and contact your ENT or primary care physician.  If you think you have symptoms, the Alabama Department of Public Health has set up a hotline: 888-264-2256.

What can I do?

1. Stay home from public places.
2. Monitor your symptoms. If your symptoms get worse, call your healthcare provider
3. Get rest and stay hydrated.
4. For all medical appointments, call the provider and tell them if you have or may have COVID-19
5. For Medical emergencies, call 911
6. Cover your cough and sneezes
7. Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
8. As much as possible, stay in a specific room and away from other people.
9. Avoid sharing personal items
10. Clean all surfaces that are touched often – counters, tabletops, and doorknobs

What are the symptoms of Coronavirus (COVID-19)

Symptoms can include:

• Fever
• Cough
• Shortness of Breath

Symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure.  Seek medical advice if you develop these symptoms and have been in close contact with a person known to have had COVID-19.

Who is at risk for COVID-19?

Currently, those at greatest risk of infection are persons who have had prolonged, unprotected close contact with a patient with symptomatic, confirmed COVID-19 and those who live in or have recently been to areas with sustained transmission.  Older adults and people who have severe underlying chronic medical conditions like heart or lung disease or diabetes seem to be at higher risk for developing more serious complications from COVID-19 illness.  Please consult with your health care provider about other steps to take to protect yourself.

Important facts to know!

• Know how it spreads
• Take steps to protect yourself
• Take steps to protect others
• Stay home if you’re sick
• Cover coughs and sneezes
• Wear a facemask if you are sick
• Clean and disinfect

Source – CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)

Thank you for your understating and we appreciate your cooperation!