It’s no secret that COVID-19 has changed the way our world works, and that includes medical care. Going to the eye doctor should be part of everyone’s routine health care, but the pandemic may have you questioning whether it’s safe to get your eye exam.
When it comes to your eye health and your vision, you shouldn’t wait to get the care you need. Pacific Eye is currently open and welcoming patients. Whether it’s time for your routine eye exam or you’re suffering an eye emergency, rest assured that health and safety during the coronavirus pandemic is our top priority.
Eye health and COVID-19
The coronavirus, which is the virus that causes COVID-19, spreads primarily through contact with others who are sick. When someone who has the disease coughs or sneezes, the virus travels through the air and can infect others.
Virus particles may enter your nose or mouth when you breathe, but it’s also possible for the virus to get into your body through your eyes. Wearing a mask helps block the virus from reaching your nose and mouth, but it’s also important to avoid touching your eyes and your face as much as possible.
Regularly washing your hands with soap for at least 20 seconds is a great way to reduce your risk of developing COVID-19. Sanitize frequently touched surfaces in your home. Strive to keep at least six feet between yourself and others when you’re out in public (social distancing).
To slow the spread of COVID-19, Pacific Eye is temporarily limiting the number of patients we see each day. Fewer patients in the office makes social distancing easier to maintain, and it gives our staff ample time to sanitize common areas.
Our team is committed to following strict sanitation guidelines. After each patient’s visit, all common spaces and counters are disinfected regularly, and exam rooms are cleaned, following Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines. All of our staff and providers are required to wear masks.
Preparing for your eye appointment
Pacific Eye is taking extra precautions during this time, and we ask that you do the same. Be prepared to answer a few screening questions when your appointment is confirmed. If you have a fever or a cough, or you’ve been close to someone who has either of these symptoms, please stay home and reschedule your appointment for a later date.
At-risk individuals, including those over 65 and those with certain preexisting health conditions, should talk to their health care team to determine if visiting the eye doctor is safe for them.
All patients are required to wear masks while in the office. When you arrive, our team may take your temperature. Anyone with a fever, cough, or other symptoms of illness will be asked to leave the office.
After you check in, you may wait in your car until you’re called in for your appointment. We ask that you leave other family members at home during this time instead of bringing them to your appointment. Guests of patients will be asked to remain in the car throughout the appointment.
Together, we can make going to the eye doctor as safe as possible. Take steps to protect yourself and stay home if you’re feeling sick. Remember that the pandemic is an evolving situation, so don’t hesitate to give our team a call at any time if you have questions about your care.
Keep your eyes and your vision healthy with eye care at Pacific Eye, which has seven locations in San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara counties. Call the location nearest you to schedule your appointment today.
