Top Reasons to go to the ER Even During COVID-19 Pandemic
For many people, the coronavirus pandemic has caused concerns about receiving safe medical treatment. However, visiting the ER in times of need is quite appropriate and safe. At Medco ER & Urgent Care, we made extra efforts to adhere to the safety guidelines recommended by the Center for Disease Control (CDC) during the height of COVID-19. We have also taken extraordinary measures to make sure our patients have safe medical care and efficient access to top quality care in a timely fashion.
“We pride ourselves on our excellent, safe medical care, even during unusual times of pandemic,” said Medco ER & Urgent Care’s Regional Medical Director, Dr. Tariq Vora. “If you have an urgent medical condition, don’t hesitate to come in and be seen by one of our board-certified physicians. You can be confident anytime in the care you receive here.”
What conditions are considered an emergency?
Any type of serious symptoms such as shortness of breath, numbness, abdominal pain, chest pain, loss of consciousness, and/or atypical headache are some common reasons to seek immediate medical attention at the nearest emergency room.
Medical problems we commonly treat at Medco ER include:
- Chest pain
- Abdominal pain
- Broken bone
- Sprains and strains
- Lacerations, scrapes or cuts
- Upper respiratory infection
- Respiratory distress
- Back pain
- Migraines
- Infections
- Foreign object in body
- Circulation concerns
- Pregnancy complications
- Burns or wound care
- Contusions
- Diabetes complications
- Renal failure
- Blood in urine or stool
- Concussion
- High blood pressure
- Mental and behavioral health concerns
- Flu or virus
- Pneumonia
- Allergic reactions
- Uncontrolled diarrhea and vomiting
- Animal bites
Additionally, anyone suffering with symptoms of COVID-19 should seek safe medical care. Symptoms vary but can include: fever, chills, cough, shortness of breath, fatigue, muscle aches, neck ache or stiffness, headache, loss of taste or smell, sore throat, congestion, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.
COVID-19 symptoms considered an emergency by the CDC include:
- Trouble breathing
- Persistent pain or pressure in chest
- New confusion
- Inability to wake or stay awake
- Bluish lips or face
“We are always here for you,” said Dr. Vora. “If you are unsure about a medical emergency or even something minor, we can perform a preliminary examination and determine the next steps in terms of diagnostics and treatment. With advanced imaging equipment and lab tests, we’re prepared to safely treat both medical emergencies and minor conditions with expert care.”
Negative Pressure Room
Using some of the latest technology, we have an exam room that is designed with negative pressure environmental controls. This helps contain any viruses, bacteria or airborne contaminants and keeps them from spreading throughout the facility.
Other safety protocols
In our continued, aggressive response to COVID-19, we have safety protocols in place to make sure our patients are protected against viruses and germs as best as possible. Here are some of our safety measures:
- N95 masks and room sanitization in the facility
- Personal protective equipment (PPE) for the entire staff
- Aggressive screening measures right at the entrance
- Regular staff screening with daily bodily temperature recording
- Clean waiting areas for patients & visitors
- Social distancing
- Designated areas for patients presenting for COVID-19 screening
- Rigorous cleaning and disinfection protocols
Come Right Away to Medco ER & Urgent Care
If you or people you love are experiencing symptoms of an urgent medical condition, don’t hesitate to come in for fast and expert help at Medco ER & Urgent Care. We’re open 24-hours a day to make sure you can get the medical care you need with little or no waiting time.
- Plano location:
3960 Legacy Drive, Plano TX 75023 (on the corner of Legacy and Coit Road)
Call us @ 469-392-4000
Is it Safe to Come to the ER Now?
Like many others, you may be wondering about the wisdom of coming to the ER during the COVID-19 pandemic. Your safety and health are our #1 priority at Medco ER & Urgent Care. We feel it is a privilege to serve you with extensive safety measures in place. Providing quality healthcare round-the-clock is our passion, and we do it with an eye to excellence.
You’ve probably heard the stories of people who have stayed home with serious medical conditions—like heart attack, stroke, pneumonia or diabetic crisis—rather than “risk” going to the emergency room. “We strongly discourage the idea of not going to the ER because of the chance of catching coronavirus,” said Medco ER & Urgent Care’s Regional Medical Director, Dr. Tariq Vora. “With stringent sanitizing practices and carefully thought-out safety precautions in place at Medco, there’s no reason to fear going to the emergency room when you need it.”
Negative Pressure Room
When it comes to treating patients safely in a sterile environment, preparation is key. And Medco ER has been prepared for infection control using some of the most advanced technology. One example of this is our specialized Negative Pressure Room, which helps to prevent airborne diseases (such as Flu and COVID-19) from escaping the room and infecting other people.
Here’s a peek at some of the other protocols we’ve implemented to ensure you will receive top quality care in a sanitized, safe and secluded environment.
Clean entrance
As soon as you walk in the freshly sanitized, touch-free door, you will find a secure processing center complete with hand sanitizers, masks and an intake specialist who will screen you for fever and symptoms.
Safe waiting area
If you have a non-COVID-19 related health concern, you may be seated in our clean waiting area arranged to help you distance from other patients. If possible, you may be escorted to your newly sanitized exam room to wait instead.
Separated areas
We have a protocol for separating any cases that are suspected to be COVID-19 related. If you enter with a non-COVID condition, you can be assured that you will be kept completely separated from any other cases and that every precaution will be taken to ensure your health and safety. Our rigid infection control practices follow the highest standards possible to maintain the safety of everyone in the clinic.
Sanitized exam room
Each patient will have access to a freshly cleaned exam room. In your sanitary, enclosed environment, you can finish filling out the paperwork and be seen by your board-certified physician. If diagnostic tests are needed, you can wait in your room for the rapid results and then speak to your physician about treatment options.
Personal protective equipment (PPE)
Our team of caring professionals has access to the personal protective equipment needed to keep us and our patients safe from the spread of contagion. We are practicing the recognized guidelines for safe measures including masks, gloves and eye protection, when needed.
Should I come in just for a common condition like a UTI or dehydration?
If you are suffering from a common medical condition and need to see a doctor right away, Medco ER & Urgent Care is open day or night to serve you. We are here to apply our experience to all kinds of medical concerns. Our Plano location has easy access and is open 24/7. You can trust us with your healthcare needs.
- Plano: 3960 Legacy Drive on the corner of Legacy and Coit Road.
Call us @ 469-392-4000.