Following The COVID-19 Safety Rules And Slowly Getting Back To Business
As eye care professionals, we had to close our clinic in the beginning of the pandemic but remained open since the summer of 2020 when the Ontario government recognized Optometrists as essential health care workers. However, during our closed period, we continued to respond through emails and saw patients only on an emergency basis.
By summer 2020, we began operating again but with many strict safety protocols in place and the investment of personal protective equipment (PPE) and shields to keep our team and patients safe. Our appointment schedule was more limited to space patients further apart and were seeing patients by appointment only. Patients were pre-screened over the phone or by email before they can proceed with booking an appointment.
For patients who preferred contactless options, we provided the option of curbside pick up and free home delivery of contact lens orders. Our team is always in full PPE and sanitizes or wash hands consistently throughout the day. There were many changes we had to get used to, and we had to keep adapting for the safety of all those around us.
During the lockdowns, our patient numbers per day significantly reduced. In addition, we had to ensure all safety protocols were met and began working on a strict cleaning measure after each patient. To keep our patients safe, we cleaned and used disinfectant on all areas and surfaces they come in contact with. In our optical area, any frames that a patient tried on were thoroughly cleaned afterward.
The constant cleaning was exhausting on our team, but we look at this positively as a form of exercise to stay healthy. With eye care, working remotely is near impossible. So our clinic has remained open for our patients and our team of staff and doctors having been working tirelessly throughout the pandemic.
When it comes to passing information, our electronic medical record system is secured software to protect all confidential patient records. We make sure that the information that we gather from our patients stays between them and us. We currently work with Evision Care, and it has been serving the purpose throughout the pandemic. We do not have virtual consultation at this time, and eye-related issues are best diagnosed in person. If a patient feels more comfortable with a phone consultation, then it is available upon request. We prefer coordinating through phone calls or by emails.
We like to thank all our patients and the community for their support during this unprecedented time.
If you are looking for an Eye doctor in Thornhill, Ontario, you can connect with us at Lumina Eye Care. We work with a team of people who understand our patients’ needs and are open to making changes to benefit them. With friendly eye doctors, leading-edge technology, and eyewear selection, we assure you that we will attend to your visual health needs with the highest quality eye care. We work with many patients in Ontario and are accepting new patients to our clinic. If you want a better understanding of the services that we offer, please click here. If you are looking to get in touch with us or think that we can assist in any way, please click here.