Coronavirus Emergency Planning and Preventative Measures

Updated Friday, March 20, 2020

Telemedicine during COVID-19

MPA is committed to providing care to our patients and serve our community during this time. To accomplish this, we have implemented virtual visits for some appointments. Your provider or a staff member will be in touch before your appointment to confirm the visit. Virtual visits (also called "telehealth" or "telemedicine") will take place via an online platform called Doxy.me.

For a preview of the program, visit https://doxy.me/patients.

The program allows patients and providers to video chat face to face during the time of an appointment. It requires only an internet connection (or cellphone data) and a computer or smartphone to operate. Nothing needs to be downloaded and you don't need to create an account or password. It is not necessary to call the office at the time of your appointment unless you have questions.

Important: Telehealth is not covered by all insurance companies; however, it is by most. If you would like to know for certain whether or not your insurance will cover your telehealth appointment, we recommend you contact them directly.

New Precautions at MPA to Limit the Spread of COVID-19

Originally published Friday, March 13, 2020

MPA is committed to keeping patient health and safety in front of mind, and that starts with the safe space we provide. Please be aware that we will be beginning some new protocols effective immediately, including the following:

• Asking all patients to cancel appointments if they are sick, are experiencing symptoms, or have been exposed to COVID-19.
• Limiting number of guests per patient (one per adult patient, two per pediatric patient, two for patients who require additional support).
• Screening all individuals entering the clinic with symptom and exposure questionnaires before checking in.
• Cleaning common touch areas in the clinic buildings throughout the day.
• Removing toys from waiting areas (patients are welcome to bring their own).

Emergency Planning and Preventative Measures

Originally published Friday, March 6, 2020

Madison Psychiatric Associates holds the safety and health of patients and staff as our highest priority. With the heavy media attention on Coronavirus, we wanted to keep everyone informed and updated on our policies. The risk remains low in Wisconsin, however federal and state health departments are encouraging communities to develop a plan.

Public officials continue to recommend that the best approach to addressing the coronavirus is to take everyday precautions to stop the spread of respiratory disease. The CDC recommends the annual influenza vaccination for everyone 6 months and older. Other actions include:

• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
• Stay home when you are sick.
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
• Follow CDC’s recommendations for using a facemask.
  • CDC does not recommend that people who are well wear a facemask to protect themselves from respiratory diseases, including COVID-19.
  • Facemasks should be used by people who show symptoms of COVID-19 to help prevent the spread of the disease to others.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
• • If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Always wash hands with soap and water if hands are visibly dirty.

We will continue our routine cleaning protocols, with additional attention to high-touch surfaces.

- Madison Psychiatric Associates