Editor's note:  Is it safe to get back to the life you knew? As services come back, we’re asking our doctors and other providers to help answer those questions in a series called Navigating COVID: Back to life. You’ll find those stories, and many others, here. Got a question? Email healthyheadlines@novanthealth.org.

To deliver the care you expect – and deserve – Novant Health has adjusted practices and protocols to maximize patient safety during the COVID-19 pandemic. Here are the “do’s and don’ts” of what to expect in our clinics and medical centers as we care for our communities.

Extra steps to ensure your safety

Do consider virtual care as a good first option – even for specialty care needs. Did you know you can schedule video visits with your provider? They can see into your eyes, ears and throat with our TytoHome device.

Do expect to see enhanced cleaning and disinfecting of rooms and facilities. We’re building in time between patient visits to ensure this is being done thoroughly.  

Do bring reading material. We’re eliminating items like magazines because they can’t be cleaned. But you’ll be able to access your favorite social media, news or blog sites using our free Wi-Fi.   

Do see a doctor or come to an emergency room if you need immediate help. Hospitals and doctor’s offices are safe. Ignoring heart pain and stroke symptoms is dangerous. Every second matters when you have heart attack or stroke symptoms.

Do get comfortable with the idea of electronic everything. E-check-ins as well as e-checkout summaries will replace the need for passing around clipboards, pens and paper.

We’ve made a lot of changes

Don’t be surprised if a provider in your doctor's office sees you … in your car, when or where it makes sense. There may be times when we may come to you in the parking lot for a visit.  

Don’t be alarmed when you get screened. Everyone is getting a temperature check, including our team members prior to their shift.  

Don’t forget your mask. Please bring one with you, if you can. If you don’t have one, we’ll provide one. All Novant Health team members are also wearing masks.

Don’t expect full waiting rooms. We’re reducing the numbers of patients we’re seeing at once.

Learn the latest on COVID-19.