COVID Update and Virtual Visits - emailed 3/20/2020

To My Patients,  The temperatures outside are rising and spring is here, but COVID 19 is still with us. As a primary care and pulmonary physician with many respiratory patients, I'm taking the present situation very seriously.  In an attempt to prevent the spread of disease, I've decided to temporarily reduce office hours.  Instead, we'll conduct "virtual visits" by smart phone - remember to smile, we'll be seeing each other on the phone. Here is what you need to do:  Call the usual telephone number, 203-853-1919. We'll tell you how to proceed. When you leave a message, don't forget to leave your telephone number. we'll respond as soon as possible.  Contact me by my personal email (as many of you have been doing all along) - istaw@drstaw.com.  If it's imperative that you need to be seen, we'll make special arrangements for that when we speak with you.  Routine medications will be refilled as usual, but in certain cases we'll do a virtual visit before renewal. Above all, adhere to the official guidelines, avoid potentially harmful contacts, and keep social and reasonable distance.  If you develop a fever, cough, shortness of breath or any other "suspicious" symptoms, call immediately - don't wait.  If you need a breath of spring air, walking outdoors is good. Just keep your distance. If it's still too chilly, exercise indoors; the Royal Canadian Air Force Exercise Plan (developed in the 1950's) is an excellent way to do it, you can find it on the net.  Stay well and away from crowds. See you on the phone,  Igal Staw, Ph.D., M.D. www.drstaw.com www.twitter.com/drstaw Dr. Staw on Facebook