COCHRANE— Family doctors have quickly adjusted to the COVID-19 pandemic to deliver health care services to their patients.
Family doctors have transitioned their services to include virtual appointments for patients in need, said medical director of Calgary Foothills Primary Care Network Dr. Janet Reynolds.
“If you’re feeling unwell you should call your family doctor they can help you get the cure you need,” she said. “Sometimes it is just a phone call and sometimes they may direct you to come into their clinic or they may direct you to somewhere else where you can access other services at the same time— It’s a different way to look after your patients.”
Family physicians can see patients for virtual appointments using video or phone. If it is required they are also able to provide in-person appointments as needed.
“I do think a lot of people made the assumption that family doctors officers were closed,” Reynolds said. “Most things can be a least to some degree with a conversation.”
Patient visits with a family physician will be unique to each office, she said, explaining that a telephone check-up can be turned into a video conference or a physical visit to the doctor based on individual needs.
Family physicians can also direct patients to needed health care services including lab work and x-rays, she said, while connecting patients with a team of primary care health professionals, that include nurses, pharmacists, social workers and mental health consultants.
Reasons patients may need their doctor can include renewing or adjusting medication prescriptions, support for pre-existing chronic health conditions, support or assessment of new health concerns, mental health and addiction support, sexual health-related concerns, pregnancy and newborn care, health baby and child check-ups, minor injuries, health education, support for social issues or connection to community resources.
For those that do not currently have a family doctor, Reynolds said she recommends visiting albertafindadoctor.ca/. The Alberta Find a Doctor website allows users to see family physicians in their area that are accepting new patients.
Reynold said a major benefit to having a family physician is they have access to a patient's complete medical history.
“I would encourage all patients to have a relationship with their family doctor, start with their family doctor,” Reynolds said. “We know that an ongoing relationship with a family doctor who has a team supporting them provides the best health outcomes in general.”
Reynolds said family physicians are uniquely positioned to care for patients, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. She added that family doctors are also able to provide health education in regards to the virus.
For patients who have mild or moderate COVID-19 symptoms, including cough, fever, runny nose, sore throat or shortness of breath, family doctors are caring for those patients virtually. This care can include daily appointments to monitor any symptom changes. In-person appointments with a family physician will follow current best practices and may include the use of personal protective equipment.
Reynold added family doctors have been adapting their practices to ensure patient safety is the top priority.
“Making your health a priority means you’ll have a better quality of life for the most part,” Reynolds said. “Everybody is focused on getting through the pandemic healthy and getting through this together.”
