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The Indian government continues to tackle the coronavirus by laying down preventive measures, making COVID-19 insurance affordable and aiding hospitals in their battle against the disease. Recently, the government lifted the lockdown restrictions to ease movement and stabilize the economy. Shops, markets, eateries, banks, gyms and even hospitals, among other essential services, are now slowly reopening. However, the risk of catching an infection remains, especially in hospitals.
But what if you need to visit the hospital for a routine checkup or during an emergency? Here’s what you can do to stay safe and avoid infection.
1. Pre-book an appointment
Call up your doctor or hospital and inform them about your health concern and its symptoms. Ask your doctor whether you need an in-patient visit or if a virtual or phone consultation would suffice. In case an in-person visit is essential, book the date and time in advance to avoid long queues and large crowds. For an emergency visit, try to call your doctor on your way to the emergency room.
Avoid delaying treatment for both emergency and non-emergency health concerns. If you think you have coronavirus symptoms, you can get the test done at home or in the hospital. The Arogya Sanjeevani Policy covers all such hospitalization expenses.
2. Use a personal vehicle for travelling
Use your vehicle for travelling to the hospital. You can also get immediate help with an ambulance in case of emergencies. Avoid public means of transport like a bus or metro. Try and travel solo to the hospital. If not, ensure only one healthy individual accompanies you.
If you have a health insurance plan, it will cover ambulance and transport charges to the hospital. With Lifeline Health Insurance, you get an ambulance cover of up to ₹3000.
3. Maintain social distancing and practice hygiene
Follow all social distancing protocols for coronavirus laid down by the government. Maintain a minimum distance of 6 feet from others. Wear a 3-layered cloth mask instead of an N-95 or surgical mask. It provides better filtration and protection in public, crowded spaces.
Avoid touching surfaces and in case you do, wash your hands with soap and water or an alcohol-based sanitizer immediately. Do not touch your face, nose, eyes, or mouth at all times while you are on your way or in the hospital. You can also carry wipes and gloves for extra precaution.
4. Go cashless
Use digital modes of payment for your appointments, follow-ups and other medical expenses to prevent any physical contact. Several hospitals, personal physicians and even health insurance providers and transport vehicles allow online payments.
You can also carry all your documents and reports related to your medical history or health condition at the time of consultation for speedy diagnosis and treatment. It can save you an in-person follow up the next time.
Conclusion
Do not let the coronavirus pandemic delay your visit to the hospital. Follow the tips mentioned above to stay safe while getting the care you need.