Catalyst Clinical Group (CCG) wants to ensure you that we as a practice are monitoring and providing all relevant information to our clients and staff surrounding any health risks or concerns in our community. With that said, we find it important to provide you with information and direction following COVID-19 (Coronavirus) as it continues to spread into Illinois and the Chicago area.
CCG asks that we all make efforts to keep each other safe from exposure. To that effect, we are asking that if you are feeling ill or are currently ill with a respiratory illness accompanied by cough, sore throat, and/or fever that you cancel your appointment in the office until risk is better known or eliminated. We will release the 24-hour cancellation fee if you are experiencing symptoms and need to cancel your appointment.
This virus is serious for any person infected but can be life-threatening for individuals with compromised immune systems, therefore, if you are ill, we ask that you reschedule your appointment. You may elect to have a Telehealth session so that you do not have to miss your session due to illness, isolation, or quarantine. For the safety and health of all members in our community we are highly encouraging you utilize Telehealth as it’s the safest option available as of now.
Telehealth
Telehealth is offered via secure video or phone. Fortunately, this means that we are all able to safely continue to meet through phone sessions or the use of our electronic charting system's HIPAA compliant video conferencing program. The steps for a video session are fairly quick and simple: you will receive a link from your provider in your email, click the link, the window will auto-open, add your name and you're all set! If you would like to use your phone or tablet there is a free app that you will need to download. The instructions for computers, phones and tablets will be sent via e-mail.
We have also confirmed with all insurance panels, including Medicare and Medicaid programs, that no session interruption will occur with this alternative method of care.
What is COVID-19?
Novel Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a respiratory illness caused by a virus that can spread from person to person.
What are the symptoms of COVID-19?
Fever
Cough
Shortness of breath
How does COVID-19 spread?
The virus is thought to spread mainly from person-to-person.
Between people who are in close contact with one another (within about 6 feet).
Through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes. These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby or possibly be inhaled into the lungs.
Spread from contact with infected surfaces or objects. It may be possible that a person can get COVID-19 by touching a surface or object that has the virus on it and then touching their own mouth, nose, or possibly their eyes, but this is not thought to be the main way the virus spreads.
What should I do to stay healthy?
Schedule a vaccination for yourself and anymore minor (age 12+) under your care.
Get your booster vaccination following the recommendation of the CDC.
Wear a mask as mandated by the State of Illinois.
Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol if soap and water are not available
Avoid group activities in excess of 10 members, including private gatherings
If possible, choose to stay home even if you’re not showing symptoms
What should I do if I’m sick with symptoms of COVID-19?
Get a COVID-19 test to confirm diagnosis.
Stay home and away from other people.
Contact your healthcare provider BEFORE going into the office for treatment.
Monitor your symptoms and call your doctor or seek immediate treatment if symptoms worsen.
Wear a facemask if you’re sick.
Cover you cough and sneezes.
Avoid sharing anything with other individuals until recovered.
Clean hands often.
Clean all “high-touch” surface areas daily.
Additional Resources:
Experts have been working hard to understand this new strain of coronavirus. Because new information is coming out every day, please visit the sites below to stay up to date.
The Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH) is monitoring closely the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) outbreak and developing guidance to prepare communities to respond. They can be reached at 312-746-4835.
The Cook County Department of Public Health (CCDPH) is coordinating with Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) as well as other local and regional public health partners, hospitals and emergency response agencies, regarding suspect cases, situational awareness, and guidance for healthcare providers, travelers, Persons Under Investigation (PUIs), and the general public. They can be reached at 708-633-4000
The Illinois Department of Health provides updates on the disease's spread within the state, as well as frequently asked questions available here. They can be reached at 1-800-889-3931.
Center for Disease Control provides updates on the disease's spread within the United States.
World Health Organization provides updates on the disease's spread on a global level and reports on global efforts.