Will My Podiatrist Check My Height and Weight During Coronavirus?

Amid the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, many are concerned about the procedures and precautions in place for medical appointments. If you're scheduled for a visit to your podiatrist, you might wonder if they will still check your height and weight. The answer to this question can vary based on several factors.

Office Policies and Practices

Whether your podiatrist will measure your height and weight can depend on the specific policies and practices of their office. Though these measurements are standard practices, they may be skipped due to the coronavirus risk. However, it is always a good idea to communicate with your healthcare provider about their protocols and what to expect during your visit.

Tip: You can ask the nurse or your podiatrist if they plan to measure your height and weight during the visit. While it is not always required, it is a question worth asking to ensure you are prepared.

Precautions During Coronavirus

Many healthcare providers have implemented additional safety measures to protect both patients and staff during the pandemic. These measures can include:

Temperature checks at the entrance Reduced routine checks to limit in-person contact Increasing the distance between patients Enhanced sanitization protocols

Based on my experience, the doctor and nurses tend to avoid any non-essential procedures. For example, during my medicine review appointment, the medical doctor insisted on seeing me in person, which was a routine check-up that could have been conducted virtually. The nurse took my temperature when I entered the office and brought me directly to the exam room, where there was another patient waiting. No routine checks like blood pressure were performed, and the doctor did not touch me, which was understandable given the context of the appointment.

Even in a "necessary" visit for a precancerous biopsy, the doctor touched me as minimally as possible and stood as far away as possible to examine the spots. However, if your visit is non-essential, your doctor and nurses will likely avoid any procedures that aren’t necessary.

Availing Virtual Appointments

Since the start of the pandemic, many physicians have shifted to virtual appointments. If your podiatrist's office still offers virtual visits, you can opt for that option. This can help reduce the risk of exposure while still receiving necessary care. However, if your visit requires an examination that can only be done in-person, your podiatrist might need to measure your height and weight.

Advice: It is a good idea to contact your podiatrist's office to inquire about in-person visits and any protocols they have in place. In my area, some doctors are still conducting only virtual appointments, while others have resumed in-person visits following local guidelines.

Make sure to follow their recommendations and bring any necessary materials, such as a mask, gloves, and sanitizer, to protect yourself and the staff during your visit.

Best wishes for your health and safety during these challenging times.

Conclusion

While your podiatrist may skip checking your height and weight based on their office policies and the current health situation, it is always a good idea to communicate with your healthcare provider about their protocols and expectations. By staying informed, you can best prepare for your visit and ensure your safety during your medical care.