Coronavirus (COVID-19) Update

Coronavirus (COVID-19) Berwick Ophthalmology Clinic

as of  10 3 2024

The situation with the Coranavirus (COVID-19) is changing  rapidly. Given the rapid changing nature of the the virus and the impact it is having locally and overseas, it is challenging to keep up to date and make decisions,  as they may need to modified with 24 hours or even less. The situation may change rapidly depending on decisions made by the Federal and State Government.

This presents challenging times for everyone , we at Berwick Ophthalmology Clinic  take the well being and health  of our patients, staff and doctors very seriously.

We have taken  measures to reduce the risk of infection.

Masks.

Masks are required to be worn at all times when entering the clinic. Due to the close examination required less than 1.5 metres, masks offer protection for both patients and staff. If you unable to wear a mask for medical reasons please contact the rooms on 9768 9711 to organise for a Telehealth consultation. 

If you are attending the clinic you will be asked the following

  • Have you recently tested positive for COVID via PCR test or RAT(Rapid Antigen Test) test?
  • Have you been in close contact with a confirmed case of COVID-19 in the last 14 days?
  • Do you have fever, flu-like or respiratory symptoms (cough, sore throat, sputum, shortness of breath), fatigue, myalgia (muscle pain), headache?
  • Do you have symptoms of conjunctivitis?

Please contact the rooms on 03 9768 9711 to discuss options and having appointment re scheduled later. TELEHEALTH  consultations are able to be provided.

In addition to the above screening we are doing the following.

  1. Have adjusted waiting room chairs to keep patients separated.
  2. Patients use hand sanitizers when entering the rooms available at the front desk reception.
  3. If you prefer, you may wait in your car and staff may call you when it is your turn to see the Orthoptist or Dr John Gioulekas. Please let the front desk staff that you have arrived and that you prefer to wait in your car  until it is your turn.
  4. We are trying our best to space appointments further apart.
  5. We are regularly cleaning chairs and equipment following patient consultations.
  6. When on the slit lamp being examined by the Orthoptist or Ophthalmologist, we strongly suggest not to talk during this part of the examination.
  7. Masks need to be worn at all times while entering the clinic and during all examinations.
  8. HEPA air filters in waiting room and consulting rooms.

RAT(Rapid Antigen Test)  testing prior to  surgery at St John of God Hospital. (as of  3 9 2023)

All patients are required to undergo a COVID 19 RAT  test prior to admission to St John of God Hospital. We will advise as to the day you need to be tested prior to your surgery. The test can be performed at home on the day of your admission. Take a photo or bring the test in a clear plastic bag for review by the hospital staff on your admission.

We are able to offer telehealth  medicine so it possible to have video conference with Dr John Gioulekas through one of the mediums such as Facetime, Zoom or Skype. This can also be in the form of a telephone consultation for those this  prefer this form of communication.  Please discuss with our staff to see if this is a suitable option for you. They will also provide with a quote for the telehealth consultation.  Please call the rooms on 03 9768 9711. 

Here are some useful links.

 

Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Ophthalmology (RANZCO) COVID 19 Information.

RANZCO COVID 19 Information

Coronavirus (COVID-19) Victoria Everything you need to know about COVID-19 in Victoria

https://www.coronavirus.vic.gov.au/