Podiatry and COVID-19: What You Should Know

It's no secret that the novel coronavirus has altered how society does things, and the medical community is no exception. Many providers have even postponed nonessential services. Now, as the world reopens, we're all taking steps to provide the medical attention you need as safely as possible. While these precautions increase safety, they can make a routine doctor visit seem different than it did in the past.

At Precision Footcare in Midtown East, New York City, John Jurcisin, DPM, takes the safety of you and his team very seriously. Here’s what you need to know about COVID-19 and receiving podiatry services during the pandemic.

How COVID-19 spreads

You get COVID-19 from a specific coronavirus, known as SARS-Co-V-2. This virus can pass from an infected person through their respiratory droplets when they cough, sneeze, or talk — even if they have no symptoms. 

Common signs associated with COVID-19 include:

• Fatigue
• Muscle or body aches
• Fever or chills
• Runny nose
• Coughing 
• Difficulty breathing
• Lost sense of taste or smell

Unfortunately, this virus can also survive in the air and on surfaces for hours. As a result, it’s crucial to take the right steps to avoid coming in contact with — or spreading — the virus.

What to expect during your podiatry visit

While COVID-19 is highly contagious, you can still safely receive foot care. At Precision Footcare, our team follows all recommended guidelines. 

Practicing good hand hygiene

Our office has plenty of hand sanitizer on-site as well as bathroom access if you prefer washing your hands with soap and water. Our team also won't shake your hand in greeting, but you’ll still receive the exceptional care you've come to expect at our practice.

Screening for symptoms

We check the temperatures of our staff each morning when they arrive. We’ll also take your temperature when you arrive and ask if you have any COVID-19 symptoms. If you have a fever or signs of an infection, we’ll reschedule your appointment.

Adopting social distancing measures

We ask that only patients and caregivers enter our office. We also ask that anyone coming wear a face covering — such as a mask, bandanna, or scarf — to protect yourself and others. We have also implemented social distancing measures in our office, so you can remain at least 6 feet apart from others. 

Cleaning protocols

We've always provided a clean and hygienic facility. During the pandemic, you can also rely on increased measures, including:

• Regularly sanitizing devices and instruments 
• Cleaning and disinfecting surfaces
• Practicing proper respiratory hygiene

We also wear personal protective equipment — such as gloves, masks, or face shields — when interacting with visitors.

How you can help

In addition to the safety measures we’ve put in place at Precision Footcare, you can help take our precautions to the next level by:

• Staying home if you have COVID-19 symptoms (now or within the past two weeks)
• Rescheduling your visit if you or anyone in your household has traveled outside the United States recently
• Avoiding an appointment if you’ve been in contact with someone who could have the virus
• Practicing good hand and respiratory hygiene during your visit
• Bringing your own face covering

If you still have concerns about scheduling a podiatry appointment because of COVID-19, just call Precision Footcare to learn more about our protocols and options for seeing Dr. Jurcisin. We currently have immediate openings, and you can also book an appointment through our website.