The darker the colour, the higher Covid-19 infection rates are, on a data map from October 2020. The picture will change but there are useful pointers.
Higher infection rates tend to be in areas adjacent to other regions with similar issues. Spread comes mainly from social interaction, the reason we take great care on dermatology treatment and all of us need to in general.
Local information and advice is available from Herts County Council, on education, childcare and community facilities during Covid-19. They also provide essential points on travel and links to advice for business.
Although only covering part of Hertfordshire, details on this NHS website would generally apply elsewhere. Information includes hospital visiting, actions to take for injuries, how to proceed if you have coronavirus symptoms.
All points which help you to stay safe are of value, including the care taken when you require specialist medical support.
Procedures At Our Clinic
Our Barnet clinic is open for treatment of almost all conditions. In clinic appointments are normally arranged following a remote consultation, a telephone call may assist, although in many cases the initial consultation will be by video link.
This is known as teledermatology, which has been used successfully for several years and is ideal for the pandemic. Social distancing is not an issue, our consultants are able to diagnose most conditions and offer personal advice.
Where in clinic treatment, or further diagnosis are best for you, a safe visit can be organised. Every precaution is taken to protect the health of visitors and staff members, from stringent infection control, to practical steps.
A private car park leading to a rear entrance reduces contact, along with running less clinics. The flow of people is controlled, PPE is worn at all times, patients are screened for coronavirus prior to treatment.
Offering Secure Care
We naturally act in accordance with guidelines issued by Public Health England and other professional bodies, which are constantly being updated. Decisions are still based on the individual needs of each patient.
Skin cancers continue to require essential care, yet treating other skin conditions can be important. The benefits of certain treatment choices can be balanced against risk.
Medication which affects the immune system could be minimised, or alternatives considered, monitoring can be carried out remotely. Treatment is not lessened, there is simply a need to take Covid-19 into account.
A safe approach means that we can continue to treat the majority of conditions, whilst maintaining Covid security. One exception to note is that we are unable to treat patients who currently have coronavirus, or related symptoms.
Keeping our clinic running effectively is the best route for our patients and reflects our team’s dedication to dermatology in Hertfordshire. Please get in touch if we can offer any support, or advice.