From Dr Gracia Chong, Dr Brett Locker and team
BACKGROUND
The current COVID-19 (CoronaVirus) outbreak is escalating around the world and rapidly in Australia. The numbers of potentially infected people have increased, and has required an unprecedented response from healthcare providers and the community. Evidence has shown that widespread infection has the potential to overwhelm our hospitals with patients requiring ventilation and ICU support. There are numerous examples in highly developed countries such as England, Italy and France where there is a serious risk for health and life. Key measures to reduce the risk of spread include limitation of close contacts, social distancing in the community and hand hygiene measures.
OUR RESPONSE
We have temporarily modified all face-to-face appointments in the consulting rooms at Charlestown, when determined essential on an individual basis. Your appointment will may be conducted via Telehealth, either with a telephone call or through the Zoom application, which can be downloaded onto your smartphone, or accessed through https://zoom.us/ on a desktop or laptop computer. You can elect your preference for method of contact when your appointment is made, and will be contacted at your appointment time to discuss your gynaecological condition and provide further care. If you are a new patient, we will require a referral from your GP prior to making your appointment.
We will endeavour to continue to provide the highest standard of professional care and service, whilst keeping our patients, their families and our staff safe during this time. We will continue to review these measures and provide updates to any changes in our service.
Thank you for your understanding as we navigate these challenging times together.
