Coronavirus Update April 29, 2020

Posted by jasonhobbslcsw in Apr, 2020

29 April 2020

Dear patient,

As a clinician, I remain concerned about your overall health and safety in addition to the health and safety of your loved ones. At this time, we have not received any guidance from the state of Georgia as to what should happen after the “shelter in place” order expires April 30. 

In the absence of any explicit directives, I will continue to see patients as long as you are healthy (without fever or cough) and feel comfortable coming into the office; we continue precautions in the office (hand sanitizer and wiping down surfaces). You are welcome to wait in your car or outside the waiting room until the time of your appointment, as you feel comfortable.

However, I do encourage you to consider telehealth during this time through the same HIPAA-compliant service that I use for my client portal, Simple Practice, especially if you are a member of a vulnerable group.

To change your appointment to telehealth, contact me through the patient portal, by email, or by phone. You should receive a link prior to the appointment that will guide you to a secure videoconferencing “room”. I will be there at the time of your appointment. You will also receive a telehealth consent to sign and be asked to enter credit card information (for those who have a copay). 

In general, patients are reporting that when they call their insurance company, that telehealth is covered at this time. I do remind you that your relationship with your insurance company is your responsibility.

If you choose to cancel your appointment, kindly give me 24 hours notice so that I can either fill that time or know not to come into the office. If you wish to use telehealth, please contact me prior to your appointment. Note that our receptionist will have limited hours during this time. If you do call the office, we ask that you be patient about receiving a return call. Email is a quicker way to receive a response. 

Please take care of yourself and those around you. 

Sincerely,

Jason Hobbs, LCSW, M.Div