Even though COVID-19 is still present in our community, it is safe to receive medical care. Doctor’s offices, clinics, and hospitals implement practices to keep patients and staff safe. Examples of this include staggering appointments, spacing out waiting room seating, requiring face coverings, or screening all patients for COVID-19 symptoms as they come in.
Most clinics and offices are open and ready to see patients. Telephone or video conference may be a good substitute if an in-person visit isn’t necessary.
Don’t Ignore Your Symptoms
- Seek medical care for any new symptoms, whether or not they may be related to COVID-19.
- Call 911 if you have a medical emergency including trouble breathing, trouble speaking, pain or pressure in your chest, or numbness in your face, arm, or leg. Know the warning signs of strokes, heart attacks, seizures, etc. Do not wait to seek medical attention.
Stay Up-to-Date on Health Exams and Vaccinations
- Adults: Remember to get an annual health exam to monitor blood pressure, blood sugar, and body weight. Additionally, stay up-to-date on routine immunizations and screenings to detect cancer and other conditions as early as possible.
- Children: Make sure children receive checkups and immunizations.
- Everyone: Make sure to receive your annual flu shot beginning in September.
Take Care of Chronic Conditions
- Seek regular care and medication refills for chronic conditions. This is especially important for conditions that put you at risk for severe complications from COVID-19, including diabetes, obesity, heart disease, or lung disease.
Reach Out If You Have COVID-19 Symptoms
- Call your healthcare provider if you are experiencing mild to moderate symptoms of COVID-19, or your symptoms get worse. Learn more about what to do when you’re sick here. Learn more about COVID-19 symptoms here.
Low-Cost Care
- Truman Medical Centers accepts patients regardless of insurance status and accepts Medicaid/Medicare. They also have two University Health On the Go! clinics that offer convenient, walk-in access, and low-cost healthcare.
- Swope Health Services, Samuel Rodgers Health Clinics, and Kansas City Care Clinic all serve uninsured individuals with low-cost care options.
- MO HealthNet covers qualified medical costs for individuals who meet certain eligibility requirements.
- LiveWell Community Health Centers provides programs and services that meet the health care needs of rural communities.
- Free COVID-19 testing is available throughout the community. Visit our community calendar for dates and times.
- Back-to-school immunizations are available through the health department at a low cost. Learn more here.
Do Your Part
- Wear a face covering while in your provider’s office or clinic.
- Monitor your health and tell your provider in advance if you have COVID-19 symptoms. They may have additional precautions for your appointment.
The Jackson County and Health Department may change recommendations as the COVID-19 situation evolves.
