A message to our patients about COVID-19

Dear Patient,

As a valued member of our AFP Associates patient community, we appreciate the trust you place in us and want to assure you that we are keeping a close eye on the evolving pandemic related to the novel Coronavirus (COVID-19). As the situation unfolds, we are committed to prioritizing the well-being of our patients, staff and community.

WHAT WE KNOW

The novel coronavirus is a fast spreading pandemic affecting patients of all ages but is more severe in elderly patients. There have been multiple confirmed cases within Los Angeles. Currently there are no definitive treatments for the virus other than supportive care, although the CDC/WHO are trialing different medications to see if they can improve outcomes of patients.

WHAT YOU CAN DO

So much is unknown currently about the virus, but we do know that social distancing is key to mitigating the spread of this virus. Patients  older than the age of 65 or those with chronic medical conditions such as COPD/asthma are at a higher risk for complications and worsening illness related to the virus. It is key to avoid large gatherings and to only go out when necessary. We know that good hand hygiene is crucial to preventing illness and spread of the virus. We recommend you wash your hands multiple times per day, especially immediately after entering your homes and before all meals. Hand washing should be for 60 seconds on both sides of your hands with soap.

WHAT WE ARE DOING

Our office continues to practice the highest level of hygiene and cleanliness within our office. 

We are extra conscious of sterilization of surfaces and rooms.  We feel confident in our ability to continue seeing patients and providing primary care in accordance with the high quality that you have come to expect and deserve.

Additionally, we have begun calling patients with non-emergent visits to determine if a phone visit could be appropriate or if rescheduling the appointment to a later time would be better.

If you plan on not coming to your appointment, please call our office and cancel your appointment. This will allow us to better plan for those patients that do need to be seen sooner. We appreciate everyone’s continued cooperation and patience during these difficult times.

If you have additional questions, please call our office at (805)494-8520. Please be patient as phone lines are getting overwhelmed.  We encourage you to leave a message if we are unable to answer right away and it will get addressed as soon as possible. Thank you for your patience and understanding. We WILL get through this together.

Stay safe and healthy.

Sincerely,

Bader Iqbal, MD
Zoya Furman, MD
AFP Associates