Covid-19 Policies & Procedures

In response to the current COVID-19 pandemic, we have instituted new policies in order to safeguard our patients and staff. Please make sure you read these and stay informed.

You will also get a phone call on the day prior to your visit to assess your level of risk and advise you appropriately. Additionally, we will have a screening station set up in the waiting room inside the front door and everyone coming into suite will be screened.

Other policies include:
1. We ask that you do not bring anyone with you to your appointment, apart from your caregiver. Any animal other than a service animal is not allowed in the office.

2. We will offer telemedicine appointments when appropriate. You will be contacted to schedule if the doctor deems it appropriate.

3. All copays & balances will be collected by phone prior to your visit.

4. All insurance cards & paperwork will be collected by email prior to your visit.

5 Waiting room chairs are spaced out for social distancing.

6. Blood draws will be done in the exam room.

7. Our scheduler will email you with your next appointment, you will not need to check out.

Information on Hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil)

Due to the recent COVID-19 pandemic, there is a shortage of Plaquenil medication. The scientific literature shows that Plaquenil might reduce nasal secretion of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. However, no clinical trials have been done to confirm that this is helpful for general patients.

Our policy is to write Plaquenil prescriptions for those patients who have already been on this medication. Given the shortage, the patients will be responsible for both finding a pharmacy that has it in stock and informing us. Thank you for your cooperation.

Video: Dr. Swamy Venuturupalli Discusses the role of hydroxychloroquine in patients with Sars-CoV-2