All of us agree that the last few months have been anxious and unprecedented. As a cancer care advocate, I understand the health risks posed by COVID-19, but I also know that delaying preventative care can mean delaying a potential diagnosis, increasing the likelihood that disease is found when it’s less treatable and more dangerous.
That’s why now is a good time to check with your provider about the infection control protocols they’ve implemented, so you know what to expect at your next appointment. Radiology practices, for example, are following expert guidelines from the American College of Radiology and the CDC to resume non-emergency care safely. Yes, there are risks to going out, but there are also risks to delaying care, so be sure to weigh all of your risk factors. It’s smart to play it safe; but be mindful that “playing it safe” can mean getting the diagnostic screenings you need to prevent cancers and other life-threatening diseases.
Matthew Boguske
Redmond
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