“Virtually
all of our outpatient services are now reopened,” said Bilal
Ahmed, M.D., St. James Hospital chief medical officer. “This includes imaging studies, colonoscopies,
endoscopies, outpatient surgeries, physical therapy, and specialty appointments. We have published our current scheduling,
which is designed to keep patients and staff safe.” The schedule is posted below and at www.urmc.rochester.edu/st-james/services.
“It is very important
for patients who have been waiting to reestablish their relationship
with the healthcare system. This will
help prevent complications or a continued decline of their
health,” said Dr. Ahmed. “During this time our #1 priority is – and
will continue to be – patient and staff safety.”
Safety protocols include
pre-visit and on-site screening of all individuals, universal masking, limited
points of entry to clinics and the hospital, reconfigured waiting rooms and
work space for social distancing, use of personal protective equipment,
scheduling that promotes social distancing, and continued use of telemedicine
appointments where appropriate.
“In addition, we
will call patients in advance to ask if they have symptoms, limit visitors
accompanying patients, and take additional precautions if needed based on your
procedure or appointment,” said Dr. Ahmed. “Per NYS regulations, we are also required to COVID
test all patients three days prior to their procedure -- this is for the safety
of everyone involved. We look forward to
continuing to take care of our community.”
