Cancer care doesn’t stop during COVID-19. Neither does safety. Texas Oncology’s comprehensive safety protocols will likely be in place for the foreseeable future, so that Texans living with cancer can continue needed in-person treatments and clinicals trials.
Keeping our staff and our patients safe is our top priority. That’s why we’ve made a number of changes to how we manage in-person visits. It’s important for our patients and their caregivers to know what to expect and how to plan for appointments inside our locations.
1. Know the visitor policy.
Many locations are only permitting patients in our clinics at this time. Patients who need a caregiver for special circumstances such as mobility, translation, or disability should contact our staff. Children are not allowed to accompany patients to their appointments at this time. For a list of Texas Oncology locations not permitting visitors, please click here. If you have questions about the visitor policy at your location, please call prior to your appointment.
2. Arrive early for precautionary screenings.
Plan to arrive 15 minutes before your appointment to allow time for screening measures. Maintaining the health and safety of our patients and staff is vital. The screening process includes temperature checks, questions about recent travel history and any potential exposure to COVID-19, as well as a review of symptoms including fever, fatigue, or shortness of breath.
Wearing a mask doesn’t just protect you, but also protects the health of those around you."
3. Wear your face covering.
Wearing a mask doesn’t just protect you, but also protects the health of those around you. Texas Oncology requires all patients and staff to wear a face covering when inside the clinic. Masks with valves are not permitted at any of Texas Oncology’s clinics. It may be a good idea to keep an extra mask, and hand sanitizer, in your car or personal bag for frequent or future appointments.
4. Communicate your concerns.
Whether it’s your comfortability with in-office visits or anxiety about living with cancer amid COVID-19, your Texas Oncology care team is here to help and wants you to speak up. It’s the best way to ensure your questions are answered and your concerns are addressed.
5. Practice safety outside of clinic walls.
Continue to be vigilant and understand your potentially heightened risk of COVID-19. Practice social distancing whenever possible, continue to limit unnecessary gatherings or trips outside of the home, and monitor for symptoms regularly. Texas Oncology staff and physicians are asked to do the same. It’s a team effort.
Texas Oncology is committed to providing critical, uninterrupted cancer care for our patients. Most importantly, if you don’t feel well, please call the clinic first before visiting in person, and know that our physicians and staff are committed to helping you fight cancer.