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Our clinic remains fully open, whilst maintaining a range of precautions against coronavirus.
The team at Skin Care Network hope that our patients are in good health, we take every precaution to maintain the health of visitors and staff members. Alongside our own initiatives, we are acting in accordance with national guidelines.
The government has amended regulations, to rely more on individual responsibility. Schemes such as test and trace, or the Covid pass are gone, we are now “living with Covid” in a societal sense but medical facilities are an exception.
Coronavirus remains a serious health risk and we should protect those who attend our clinic, or work there. Fresh guidance has been issued by UK public health bodies, which does not bring significant change to procedures already in place.
The use of face masks or face coverings is continuing, along with infection control and hand hygiene for staff, patients, or visitors. Other types of PPE may be used, along with maintaining good ventilation.
Testing continues to be used and our staff are vigilant for any signs of respiratory infection. Part of providing a balance between offering sound care and individual protection:
- In line with the principle of maintaining key health support, Skin Care Network is open to provide a full diagnostic and treatment service.
- We are unable to physically treat patients suffering from Covid-19. Government guidance is still to stay at home, although this does not preclude contact as below.
- Consultations by telephone, video, or similar teledermatology facilities are available. (Normally covered by insurance companies)
- We have a private car park and entrance at the rear of the practice, minimising risk for patients who are attending.
- The area of separation between patient appointments has been increased to reduce delay, with the intent of no waiting time.
- To retain social distancing, we have restricted the running of simultaneous clinics, which will further reduce contact in waiting areas.
Referral Procedures
Self referral as a private patient is perfectly acceptable. Patients can also be referred to our reception team by GPs, or insurance companies, who are now all covering the cost of remote consultations, alongside treatment.
Where circumstances require, or by patient choice, the initial appointment can be by video link and often take place on the same day. If in clinic consultation with one of our consultants is the best path, this should be available within 1 to 3 days.
If surgery is indicated, where possible, this will take place during the same visit. Follow ups will be thorough but can again be handled remotely where this is appropriate, or requested by our patient.
Support for all dermatological conditions is available. If you require any clarification on the points above, please call us on 020 8441 1043. The time you need will be given and a solution found for most situations.
Internal Safeguards
Infection control has always been of paramount importance at our clinic. Procedures were enhanced during the Covid-19 pandemic and are largely maintained, voluntarily and in line with guidance from health authorities.
The practices we use for hand sanitation during and after seeing our patients are helpful. Cleanliness in all areas will be rigorously maintained, including the use of anti-viral wipes for surfaces and handles.
As mentioned above, access to our clinic is either from a private car park, or public road. This limits exposure to hospitals, or general clinics, where patients with infections may be present.
Our staff are being supported and we take the time to explain changes to patients. The pandemic may have waned but there are still steps we should take, to try to preserve a safe environment for all who attend our clinic.
Having Current Symptoms
The latest guidance continues to recommend extra vigilance and most importantly that people with symptoms do not attend. The same principle applies if others in your household have coronavirus.
Should you have a cough, high temperature, shortness of breath, or similar symptoms, we ask that you do not attend. A proportion will be conditions other than Covid-19 but patient safety has to come first.
Alongside the more common symptoms, Covid-19 has been linked with a range of skin issues, such as chilblains, or rashes. Again, they can be from other causes and we will be pleased to advise on skin conditions and coronavirus.
There is no intention to discriminate and we will make every effort to ensure people in need receive treatment. As with any queries, please get in touch with our team if any of the above apply and we will try to assist.
Monitoring the ongoing coronavirus situation and acting appropriately will continue to be a priority for us, your assistance in making this work is welcomed.
Working Together
The available guidance offers a base and we will continue to improve the situation by pulling together, acting in a protective way.
Looking after ourselves will help, even if a degree of isolation is needed. Keeping hydrated and maintaining a healthy diet matter, as does as much exercise as you can safely manage, alongside keeping in regular contact with people.
If we work in unison, maintain our health, look after ourselves and each other, we will be contributing to a cause we all share.