Don't delay your care during the COVID-19 pandemic

There is a common myth out there right now that it’s dangerous these days to get healthcare. In reality, our hospitals, emergency rooms, urgent care centers, and doctors’ offices are really safe places to be if you need healthcare.

Around the country, health systems are reporting that patients are coming to hospitals and other care locations with illnesses that are markedly worse than necessary because they’ve delayed seeking help. A May 2020 poll from the Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF) found “48% of Americans said they or a family member has skipped or delayed medical care because of the pandemic, and 11% of them said the person’s condition worsened as a result of the delayed care.”

As we all navigate our new life realities, we want you to be very sure to know that the worst possible thing any of us can do — especially those of us with significant medical problems — is to fear seeking medical care.

We at Aspire Health Plan would like you to remember:

Your doctor is only a phone call away — and that call is easy, and the best place to start if you’re having any health issues. And with telehealth, that call will likely have no co-pay.
Our hospitals, including emergency rooms, are extremely clean, safe places. Remember, they’ve been in the business of cleaning and disinfecting themselves forever. The hospital environmental services professionals (among our local heroes, for sure) are well-trained and experienced in keeping all of us safe. Visit the pages of our two parent hospitals for more information:
- Community Hospital of the Monterey Peninsula
- Salinas Valley Memorial Healthcare System

Almost universally, we’re all much better addressing medical problems earlier than later.

We at Aspire are completely committed to doing everything we can to assist you in being your best self, both in terms of your health and well-being. Please never hesitate to reach out to us — and your doctor — as soon as you experience something with which we can be helpful. We’ll provide you with the very best and safest advice on getting the care you want and need in a safe environment.

You’re not alone, and our community hospitals and doctors’ offices are here for you when you need them.

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