During the current COVID-19 crisis, we want to reassure you that we are taking every precautionary measure to ensure the safety of our breast cancer patients and our staff.
In adherence to the American College of Surgeons’ guidelines, we are committed and equipped to perform emergent or urgent surgical procedures, while non-urgent and elective surgeries will be rescheduled at a further date once restrictions have been lifted.
Why Delay Some Procedures?
As you most likely are aware, the number of critically ill people with COVID-19 has strained our hospitals and health care system. For your safety, and to conserve resources such as hospital beds and medical equipment for patients who are critically ill with COVID-19, the American College of Surgeons’ guidelines and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend that non-emergency procedures be delayed.
We will carefully determine if your condition will worsen without the surgery and whether other treatments are available. In addition, we will also evaluate the risk posed to you for surgery during the pandemic. Temporary, alternative care options may include other treatments while waiting for a safe time to proceed with surgery.
Should your procedure be postponed, rescheduling will depend on your health status, the prevalence of COVID-19 in our communities, and availability of surgical facilities. We will consult with you to make any necessary adjustments as convenient for you as possible.
How To Help Reduce Risk Of Infection
We ask that you help us drastically reduce the risk of COVID-19 infection in our offices and community by self-isolating if you or others who you’ve been in contact with have had symptoms of COVID-19, such as:
- Fever greater than 100.4º F/38º C
- Coughing
- Shortness of breath
In addition, if you or someone you’ve been in contact with has exhibited signs of COVID-19, please note:
- Those who have or have had COVID-19 are considered contagious for 72 hours after their last symptom has resolved.
- Family members of those infected should also self-isolate while their family member is recovering, and for 14 days after the last symptom of their affected family member has resolved.
If your procedure is proceeding without postponement during COVID-19 restrictions, know that all medical offices and equipment are being sanitized routinely according to strict guidelines by the CDC.
You should practice the CDC recommendations to avoid exposure to COVID-19, including:
- Refrain from rubbing your eyes, picking your nose or touching your mouth.
- Washing your hands thoroughly and frequently for at least 20 seconds with soap and warm water. Use antiseptic hand gel if you are unable to wash your hands.
- Avoiding crowded areas and sick people, and maintain 6-feet distance in any public places.
We understand that there are uncertain and alarming times, but please know that we remain committed to caring for and protecting our breast cancer patients in every way possible while adhering to COVID-19 restrictions as necessary. Please call our office at 865-692-1610 for further information, or if you have any questions about your particular situation or care plan. Leave a message and we will get back to you promptly.
Stay safe and take care of one another while we take care of our beloved breast cancer patients.
—Dr. Aaron Margulies, Imelda Margulies, and our entire staff