*UPDATE – We are no longer offering virtual visits, as they are no longer covered by insurance*
The response to the coronavirus here in the United States has, for lack of a better term, been a dumpster fire. We’re far and away the country with the most confirmed cases and causalities, and based on the latest data, it doesn’t appear that cases are going to start dropping off exponentially like we had first hoped back in March. So why is the coronavirus hitting the US so strongly, and what can we do as a nation to reverse this trend and really start to see a drop off in cases? We try to offer some solutions in today’s blog.
Fixing Our Coronavirus Response
Here are some things we should strongly consider doing to help slow the spread and decrease the number of new positive cases, based on findings from what’s working in countries that have seen success.
1. Masks4All – We’ve talked about this in depth on the blog in the past, so we won’t go too deep here, but #Masks4All needs to catch on when we are in enclosed public places. That means banks, grocery stores, gas stations, retail stores or any place where you can expect more than a few people inside an enclosed space. The data shows that masks can help protect others, so if we all do our part, we’ll greatly reduce our likelihood of transmitting the virus if we knowingly or unknowingly come down with it.
2. What’s Necessary – We really need to take stock of what’s necessary in our lives. Right now, we don’t need to be going out in droves to church or the bar. Trust us when we say we understand the financial implications another shutdown would have on small businesses, but there are other ways to patronize businesses than to belly up at the bar or book a hair coloring session right now. Takeout orders and buying gift cards can all help support local businesses without greatly increasing your risk of catching COVID.
3. Trust The Good In People – One of the prevailing sentiments in the US seems to be that “well if others aren’t social distancing or quarantining, why should I?” After all, we’ve all seen the news coverage of beaches in Florida or packed bars. Know that this is not a representation of the majority of people. Most people are practicing smart habits when it comes to COVID-19, but that doesn’t garner eyeballs and clicks on news websites. I’m sure you know some people that aren’t really following the guidelines, but odds are you know more people who do take basic precautions. Even though they aren’t on the news or filling your Facebook timeline with rants against masks, know that a large portion of the US is taking this seriously, and you should too.
4. Long Term Over Short Term – We know that it’s frustrating to miss out on summer activities like sports games, weddings and backyard barbecues, but we need to put long-term goals over short-term rewards. We may not get to a place where we are comfortable reopening schools in the fall, but we’re not going to get there if we keep putting big weekend gatherings and social events over bigger future goals. Do your part, don’t give in just because a few outliers aren’t doing their part.
5. Go Digital – The internet makes it so much easier to get things done or connect with people, so utilize online options to reduce your need to meet people face to face. Buy groceries online, support small businesses on their websites, set up a telemedicine appointment and connect with friends over Zoom. Lean into technology so we’re still together as the virus keeps us apart.
We’re not saying we have all the answers, but if we all do our individual part and keep these tips in mind, we will win out over this virus. If you have questions or need help with a foot or ankle issue, reach out to Dr. Silverman’s office today.