Updated 19 July 2021
It is a balancing act between ensuring everyone’s safety and providing care to patients during the COVID-19 pandemic. These are the steps we have taken to make it safer for you to attend and they will remain in place for the foreseeable future:
- Booking an appointment
Please contact us directly or via the BMI Alexandra Hospital to discuss your condition. Whenever possible, we will offer remote consultations (telephone or video). We will redirect you elsewhere (e.g. NHS eye casualty, Minor Eye Condition Services) if other options are more appropriate.
- On the day of your visit
In addition to the measures taken by the BMI Alexandra Hospital and to my usual practice (cleaning all instrumentation, chairs and surfaces in contact with patients, rigorous hand washing, minimising waiting times), the following provisions will remain in place:
- Miss Maino will wear a N95 face mask. A mask with a clear panel fro those who lipread is also available.
- Windows will be open to provide ventilation
- We will inform you if Miss Maino or any member of the team is showing symptoms of COVID-19
- Hand sanitiser is available outside and inside the consulting room
Patients/Parents/Carers must agree to the following to keep everyone safe:
- Ophthalmic examinations are carried out at close contact and therefore we will continue to request face coverings to be worn when in the consulting room unless you are exempt. Children under 12 are not required to wear a face covering.
- Do not attend if you or anyone in your household is unwell.
- Please sanitise your hands before and after the consultation.
The only change we are making is that accompanying persons are now allowed in the consulting room.
To anyone who is worried about the current situation: stay assured that we understand your fears. You might be worried about going to see a doctor during the COVID-19 pandemic. You might be worried about yourself and your family members. You might be shielding. We will continue to provide excellent care in a safe environment.