NEWPORT NEWS, Va. — The coronavirus has forced the Children’s Clinic to not accept walk-in patients.
“This is one of those things that safety trumps convenience,” said Children’s Clinic President Dr. Margaret Blanchard.
The walk-in patient suspension notices are posted online and on their front doors. Blanchard said they have four offices across Hampton Roads. Normally the clinic can see 10 to 20 walk-ins a day during peak flu season.
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“‘We’re not trying to be unavailable as pediatricians. We’re just trying to say, look, this is a much much safer way to do it when we know that we have things that look identical to cold and flu and the big difference here is the travel history and we really have to be ready to screen for before we want you walking in the door,” said Blanchard.
Blanchard explained they are prepared for the flu, but not the coronavirus.
“So we have not been able to get N-95 masks unfortunately because even as far back as six weeks ago or so or even maybe two months ago, we were unable to get them due to the lack of supply,” said Blanchard.
Blanchard mentioned when parents call, they will be asked where they have traveled. Then a decision will be made if the child will be seen or if a coronavirus test needs to be done.