While all of us shelter-in-place in an effort to prevent the spread of the Coronavirus, many businesses and organizations are working to find ways to continue providing services. Most non-essential appointments have been cancelled, as well as most scheduled surgeries that can wait.
For many people, that kind of change is hard. It can feel sudden and confusing. If you rely on regular care, you may not know who to call, what will happen next, or how long the wait will be. If you live with a disability, this may add even more stress. You may already be dealing with pain, mobility limits, anxiety, or changes in your daily routine. When the systems you depend on change, it can feel like too much at once.
One helpful first step is to pause and make a short list of your most urgent needs. Ask yourself: Do I need medicine refilled? Do I need to ask about a treatment plan? Do I need a follow-up with a specialist? Writing things down can help you stay calm and organized. It can also make phone calls easier if you are trying to explain your needs to a busy office.
As a Veteran, you may find your appointment at the VA Med Center has also been cancelled. That can be a frightening prospect if you were seeking changes in your current treatment plan, or were expecting to have your prescriptions renewed. All is not lose, however. If you would like to try a teleconference or a video conference instead of a face-to-face meeting, you can contact the VA to arrange one by going to: https://www.va.gov/coronavirus/ .
If you are not used to telehealth, it may help to prepare before the appointment. Make sure your phone is charged. If you are using a computer or tablet, check the camera and microphone ahead of time. Write down your questions before the call starts. If you need help hearing, seeing, or understanding the screen, ask a family member, friend, or support person to help set things up. You can also tell the office ahead of time if you need extra time or if you use an assistive device.
It is also a good idea to keep a simple list of your medications. Include the name, dose, and how often you take each one. If you are running low, call early. Do not wait until you are out. Many offices are busy right now, and it may take more than one call to get an answer. If you do leave a message, say your name, phone number, and what you need as clearly as you can.
If you are looking for accurate information on what Veterans need to know about COVID-19, you can access the VA’s website for the answers by going to the Frequently Asked Questions page. And, if the pressure becomes unbearable, and you are having suicidal thoughts, please call the Crisis Line at 1-800-273-8255 and Press 1 for assistance. You may also access the Crisis Line at: www.veteranscrisisline.net .
Please take that warning seriously. If you or someone you know may be in danger, do not wait to ask for help. Call right away. If it is easier, write the number down and keep it near your phone. You can also let another trusted person know that you are struggling so they can help you make the call or stay with you while you wait for support.
During this time, it can help to build a small daily routine. Try to wake up, eat, take medicine, and rest at about the same times each day. Even simple routines can make the day feel more stable. If you are at home more than usual, find small ways to stay connected. Call a friend. Check on a neighbor. Send a text. Short contact can ease loneliness and remind you that you are not alone.
If you need help figuring out your options, Disability Network Lakeshore may be able to help. Our services are free. We serve people with disabilities in Ottawa and Allegan counties. We can help with information and referral, peer support, advocacy, independent living skills, transition, and more. Sometimes just talking through the next step can make the problem feel smaller. You can call us at (616) 396-5326.
Here are a few practical ways to get through a disrupted medical schedule:
- Keep all medical papers in one folder or one drawer.
- Write down every call you make, including the date, time, and name of the person you spoke with.
- Keep a backup phone number for your doctor’s office or pharmacy.
- Ask if a refill can be sent to your pharmacy without an in-person visit.
- Save any email, voicemail, or letter about changes to your appointment.
- If you use transportation, find out whether it is still running before your visit.
If you are trying telehealth for the first time, a few extra steps can help. Sit in a quiet place if you can. Put your phone on a table or stand so you do not have to hold it the whole time. If you have trouble speaking up, write down your main points before the call so you do not forget them. If the connection fails, call back right away or follow the instructions the office gave you. If you need an interpreter or another accommodation, ask for it.
Sometimes a face-to-face visit is still needed. If you are told to come in for urgent care, ask what safety steps are being used before you go. You can ask about waiting room changes, masking, or other precautions. It is fair to ask questions. You have a right to understand what will happen before you arrive.
It may also help to think about who can support you at home. If you usually rely on a caregiver, family member, or friend, talk with them about a backup plan in case they get sick or cannot travel. Keep a short list of important contacts near the phone. Include doctors, pharmacy, family, and anyone who helps with daily tasks. Planning ahead can reduce panic if something changes quickly.
Changes like these can make people feel like they have lost control. But even in a hard time, there are still steps you can take. You can ask questions. You can ask for a call instead of an in-person visit. You can ask for help. You can slow down and focus on the next right step, not every step at once.
If you are not sure where to begin, start with one phone call. That one call may lead to the next answer you need. And if you need help making sense of the system, please reach out to DNL. We are here to support independence, and our services are free. Call (616) 396-5326. Our office is located at 442 Century Lane, Holland, MI 49423.