​Dear Patient,

We hope this letter finds you well. As we prepare to enter the next phase of the COVID-19 (the name of the disease caused by the new coronavirus) pandemic, we continue to be here for you. We would like to take this opportunity to encourage you to check in with your primary care team. We want to hear from you. We are ready and equipped to care for your health needs while keeping you healthy and safe. 

We want to answer some questions you may have about your primary care.

Is my doctor’s office open?

Yes, your primary care practice is available to take your call. We are able to address many of your current health needs and provide high quality and safe care using video conferencing or phone (often referred to as telemedicine). In addition, we know that some concerns are better addressed in person. We have designated several practices throughout eastern Massachusetts where in-person visits are available. These practices, like your primary care practice, are a part of Beth Israel Lahey Health, and are safe environments to receive care for any matters that we are unable to appropriately address via telemedicine.

Should I wait to seek care?

No, your primary care team is here to work with you to manage your health and support your quality of life. If you have a chronic medical condition like diabetes, heart disease, hypertension, depression, asthma or COPD, your concerns about COVID-19 may have kept you from seeking care in recent months. We want to assure you that we have created safe and accessible ways to care for you, please call us so we can determine which type of visit best fits your needs. 

What if I have COVID-19 symptoms?

Please call us if you are experiencing mild or moderate symptoms (such as cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, fever, chills, muscle pain, sore throat, new loss of taste or smell). These symptoms may or may not be consistent with COVID-19 infection and we can take care of you. Testing, when appropriate, may be available; and can be coordinated through your primary care practice.

Please know that we are here for you! 

If you develop signs of illness, or if you have any questions or concerned about your overall health, do not hesitate to call us. As a reminder, always call 911 if you are experiencing a life-threatening medical emergency. Our priority is to provide you with patient-centered, high quality and safe care. Your primary care team is ready to take care of your chronic health needs and to maintain your overall health during this time of stress and anxiety.

Thank you for entrusting us with your care and for helping us navigate this public health emergency. We will be in touch again soon to let you know more about how we plan to keep our patients safe as we resume more frequent in-person care. We care deeply about your health and safety and look forward to hearing from you soon.