March 2020 saw a sudden decrease in healthcare expenditure due to social distancing, hospital capacity, and the outbreak of COVID-19, according to the Kaiser Family Foundation. Although this was a scary and unprecedented time, it’s important to remember that patients still need care — now more than ever. Here are five ways you can better take care of your patients during these times and beyond.
1. Keep Them Informed
Your patients are likely feeling just as anxious and uncertain as you are. Make sure to keep them updated on changes in policy, new procedures, and any other relevant information. Patients should never feel like they’re in the dark about their own care. In addition, make sure to explain things in plain language; avoid medical jargon as much as possible.
2. Be Empathetic
Your patients are likely going through a tough time, whether they’re dealing with a chronic illness, a new diagnosis, or the stress of the current situation. It’s important to be understanding and compassionate towards them. Take the time to listen to their concerns, and offer reassurance where you can. People appreciate feeling like they’re being heard, and it can make a world of difference.
3. Be Flexible
In times of crisis, it’s important to be flexible with your patients. This might mean adjusting their treatment plan, being more lenient with deadlines, or simply being understanding if they’re feeling overwhelmed. Again, the goal is to make sure your patients feel supported as opposed to being pushed to their limits.
4. Offer Virtual Appointments
If patients are hesitant to come into the hospital or clinic, offer virtual appointments as an alternative. This way, they can still get the care they need without having to leave their homes. Many patients will appreciate this option, especially if they’re high-risk or have transportation issues.
5. Follow Up
Finally, make sure to follow up with your patients after their appointments. This can be a quick phone call or email to check in and see how they’re doing. Your patients should never feel like they’re being forgotten about or that their care ends when they leave the hospital. Following up shows that you care about them and their well-being, and it can make all the difference in the world.
By following these tips, you can better take care of your patients and make sure they’re getting the support they need during these difficult times. Get in touch with us at Piedmont Medical Inc. for hospital beds and other support.
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