1. Present to the patient a COVID-19 questionnaire to screen for signs or symptoms of COVID-19 and to find out If they’ve travelled or been exposed to someone infected with the virus

2. Continuously sanitize and disinfect all commonly touched surfaces inside the office.

3. Disinfect all equipment before and after each client, making sure that the patient visibly sees equipment being disinfected prior to their use in the pre-screening room and exam room. Also, be sure to wash your hands adequately in front of the patient.

4. Ensure that everyone in the office wears a face mask. Using a face shield and gloves would be wise. Use barriers at the front desk and in the exam room for added protection.

5. Six feet of social distancing would be ideal, but if not practical, maintain as much distance as possible.

6. Clear the waiting room of anything that’s not essential - toys, magazines, coffee stands, water bottles, etc. Space out the chairs as much as possible.

7. Check the temperature of everyone who enters the office. Have sanitizer available throughout the office and disposable face masks available.

8. Avoid shaking hands. Simply explain to the patients that you are avoiding handshakes to keep them safe.

9. Switching to automated patient forms along with digital billing reduces the spread of the virus because it eliminates the need for paper in the office. Automated forms allow patients to complete all the necessary documents at home on their own device along with scanning their insurance card, ID, medication list, previous health records and more. Once they electronically sign and submit, all the information is received and reviewed by the optometrist before the patient even steps into the office. By reducing the use of paper, your office is minimizing the number of items that are being touched by patients, staff and doctors in the office.