May 01, 2020

Reopening Your Medical Practice

Stagger schedules (if possible) to limit the number of individuals in the office at one time.
Reconfigure workspaces to allow for a safe distance between employees; make sure enough room is available to allow for social distancing, focusing on common areas. Reorganize processes to allow for social distancing when possible.
Respect each person’s personal space and professional boundaries, especially when it comes to greeting one another at work and/or having conversations.

Post signage that addresses COVID-19 expectations and workflow processes.
Make sure your employee handbook is updated or modified to meet the new COVID requirements as well as workplace expectations.
Be aware of any legal requirements related to COVID-19 for your practice/office.

Do not have magazines, pens, pencils, or clipboards out for multiple patient use. Keep your waiting rooms free of extra objects.
In the waiting room, space your chairs to follow social distancing guidelines. *If you are unable to remove extra chairs, flip over chairs in between the available chairs to demonstrate social distancing.
Have patients wait in their vehicles until they are called into the facility for their appointment.
Only patients should be allowed in the office. Visitors accompanying patients should wait outside, unless the companion is needed by
Remind patients to wear appropriate face covering as directed by the Centers for Disease Control.
Utilize other acceptable means of communication such as phone, video, etc. to limit exposure.
Have appropriate hand sanitizer, cleaning wipes, and hand soaps available for employees to utilize throughout the entire workspace. Have it available in your waiting rooms as well.
Do not allow employees to share office equipment, instruments or work utensils without sanitizing/sterilizing in between uses.
Remind employees to wash hands frequently, disinfect their workspace, and practice coughing and sneezing etiquette.
Post signage for appropriate hand washing techniques and coughing and sneezing etiquette.
Regular cleaning protocols are required and should follow CDC and OSHA guidelines.
Provide the appropriate PPE for your staff.

Keep the lines of communication open with employees and your patients.
Provide frequent updates and allow for questions and concerns to be heard and addressed in a timely manner.

*Please be sure to check with your particular state and local health departments for specific guidelines and requirements.

COVID-19 Sanitization