UNC Health Media Briefing (6-12-20) Minority health disparities during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Expert guests Dr. Giselle Corbie-Smith and Dr. Crystal Wiley Cené discuss minority health disparities during the COVID-19 pandemic. Among the many topics they discuss: Why is COVID-19 is hitting vulnerable populations (Black & Latino) harder in North Carolina? What efforts are under way to test more people across North Carolina, especially marginalized populations? Why do we need accurate data on who is getting and succumbing to COVID, in order to find ways to support providers and hospitals that are caring for them? Why are rural communities are still at risk for an increase in positive cases? What are state health leaders are doing to help test and treat vulnerable populations? What efforts are under way to increase access to testing and treatment, especially in rural areas? BACKGROUND Dr. Crystal Wiley Cené is an Associate Professor, Division of General Medicine and Clinical Epidemiology at UNC School of Medicine. https://www.med.unc.edu/medicine/dire... Dr. Giselle Corbie-Smith is a Kenan Distinguished Professor of Social Medicine, Director of the Center of Health Equity Research and a Professor of Internal Medicine. https://www.med.unc.edu/socialmed/dir... Learn more about the ways UNC Health is keeping patients, families & visitors SAFE! https://www.unchealthcare.org/patient... Your Health and Safety Are What We Care About We know you have concerns about returning to healthcare facilities, and we’re working hard to make sure you get the care you need as safely and effectively as possible. In addition to our existing safety procedures, we are taking extra steps to minimize risks at our clinics and hospitals. UNC Health Safety Promise seal It is important to not delay or avoid care for chronic conditions, such as diabetes, or ongoing treatment for existing conditions, such as cancer, which can result in more serious health issues if treatment is missed. Regular wellness visits also shouldn’t be avoided. Vaccinations and screenings to detect disease in the early stages are vital for maintaining your health. As always, you should seek emergency treatment right away for any health emergency, such as potential stroke or heart attack. Early treatment is critical for the best possible recovery. COVID-19 concerns call for additional safety and screening measures on top of what we’ve always done. At your next appointment you can expect to see some changes designed to make it as safe as possible to get needed care during this pandemic. How We’re Keeping You Safe We are limiting contact and encouraging physical distancing at clinics, including modified waiting rooms. We are reducing the number of people in our clinics at one time by staggering appointments and limiting the number of visitors and companions. When possible, we are providing a way for patients to sign consent forms and fill out paperwork online, reducing the amount of time spent at check-in. In addition, some clinics are allowing patients to wait in their cars after checking in to reduce the amount of time and exposure to other people. Robust cleaning We have always followed proven safety practices, including cleaning exam rooms between patients. In addition, we have implemented enhanced cleaning between patients and more frequent deep cleaning of all areas of our facilities. Infection control We are screening patients and visitors in our facilities by asking specific questions about symptoms and taking temperatures, when appropriate. We also have a universal mask policy in place, requiring masks for all staff, patients and visitors. Extra hand sanitizer and handwashing procedures are in place for both staff and patients. Virtual Care Options We have expanded our virtual care options so patients can get care without ever leaving home. Learn more about the types of virtual care options we offer and how to schedule an appointment. Visitor Restrictions One designated, screened visitor per patient for the duration of his/her stay will be permitted in the inpatient areas at UNC Health hospitals in the Triangle area. No visitors or companions are allowed in outpatient areas unless they meet one of the exceptions outlined in the policy, which we understand can be frustrating, especially when dealing with difficult health concerns. But it is important to minimize exposure to our patients and medical staff during this pandemic. Learn more about our Visitor Restrictions. What to Know about Surgery Extra steps are in place for patients who have surgery scheduled, including additional COVID-19 screening before their surgery. Our hospitals have more frequent cleanings for patient rooms as well as common areas, and patients with COVID-19 symptoms are isolated in separate areas away from all other patients. While strict limits are in place for visitors, surgery patients are allowed a brief visit in the recovery area after their procedure.