Coronavirus (COVID-19) Information for NJOS Patients

 

North Jersey Orthopaedic (NJOS) places the highest priority on the safety of our patients, staff and providers, while maintaining high-quality clinical care at all our facilities.  We take the threat of the spread of Coronavirus, also known as COVID-19, very seriously. We are monitoring the situation, staying in touch with public health officials, and we’re updating our processes and protocols accordingly.

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In an effort to protect everyone, we ask that you work with us to minimize the risk of infection and spreading of germs.  All patients are required to wear a mask.

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Some frequently asked questions our patients are asking:

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Should I keep my appointment?
You may keep existing appointments, unless you are feeling unwell. If you are experiencing a fever, cough or shortness of breath, please contact our office to reschedule your appointment.  Our offices and other facilities remain open to serve the musculoskeletal needs of the community.

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Is Telemedicine or “virtual” visits an option?
Yes!  Telemedicine is now available.  A telemedicine visit is available and can be arranged by calling the office.  Telemedicine is the remote delivery of healthcare services using live video visits. It allows our doctors an additional way to evaluate, diagnose and develop treatment plans with patients using technology, such as video conferencing on smartphones and/or computers without the need for an in-person visit. Telemedicine visits allow our doctors to interview and complete a limited exam to increase accessible care options for patients and to provide an innovative and convenient way for patients to interact with a physician.

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For more information on telemedicine, click here.

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What is NJOS doing to protect patients?

• We are employing temperature checks for patients and employees at all of our office locations as part of expanded screening for novel coronavirus.  Those with a fever will be asked to leave and reschedule their appointment, and to contact their primary care physician or local ER for care and guidance. 

• We are screening all patients for symptoms and travel history.  Those patients with symptoms or travel exposure risk will be asked to leave and reschedule their appointment, and to contact their primary care physician or local ER for care and guidance.  In the rare instance when the appointment is for a musculoskeletal emergency/urgency, we adhere to rigorous CDC and public health protocols designed to prevent transmission.

• All commonly used surfaces are disinfected multiple times per day.

• Rigorous hand hygiene protocol is enforced for all providers and staff.

• All patients are required to wear a mask.
   

What are the symptoms of COVID-19?
The most common symptoms of the novel coronavirus are fever, cough, shortness of breath and breathing difficulties. Contact your primary care physician if you experience these symptoms and meet the criteria for exposure as determined by the CDC. Public health authorities will determine if you should be tested.

What can I do to protect myself and others?
Public health officials recommend the following steps to prevent the spread of all respiratory viruses, including influenza and COVID-19.

• Wash your hands frequently and for at least 20 seconds with soap and water. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

• Cough into your elbow or a tissue and not your hands.

• Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces at home, work and school.

• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.

• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.

• If you are sick, stay home and do not travel or report to work.