It is an extremely dangerous time for patients with mesothelioma. The novel coronavirus/COVID-19 pandemic is especially perilous for people with existing lung and respiratory conditions, including mesothelioma and asbestosis. A patient with mesothelioma should obey recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the World Health Organization in terms of staying home, social distancing, and staying safe. It may still be possible to receive mesothelioma treatments without leaving one’s home, however, due to virtual health technologies.
Patients with mesothelioma, a type of cancer related to asbestos exposure, are in the high-risk category for the coronavirus. Coronavirus is especially threatening to patients with serious illnesses and immunodeficiencies, such as those with cancer or who are receiving chemotherapy. It is critical for patients with mesothelioma to isolate themselves at home as much as possible during the COVID-19 pandemic. Doing so may require the use of innovative health tools such as virtual medical treatments to keep up with doctor’s appointments.
A virtual appointment with your health care provider could allow you to connect with your doctor via phone or video chat – no in-person visit necessary. This allows you to stay safer from the coronavirus by discussing your treatments with your doctor without leaving your home. For example, your doctor could call you to discuss your health care needs over the phone during the pandemic. Virtual appointments can even use telemedicine technology such as video conferencing tools so your doctor can assess how you look during your treatment.
Telemedicine, or telehealth, has proven invaluable during the pandemic. During a time when it is unsafe for people with cancer to leave their homes or be around other people – especially physicians who may have interacted with patients with COVID-19 – telehealth provides a modern-day solution. If you have a smartphone, laptop or computer, you can see your doctor for mesothelioma treatment from your living room. You may be able to schedule a remote appointment even with only a landline. Most doctors can assist patients with several matters during virtual mesothelioma appointments.
While doctor’s offices still value face-to-face interactions and cannot do some things virtually, when telehealth options are available and appropriate, they can be a safer alternative to in-person visits during the coronavirus pandemic. Virtual appointments can provide effective mesothelioma care while keeping you safe from risks of coronavirus transmission. Ask your doctor if a virtual visit is possible for your mesothelioma treatments during COVID-19. If so, someone from the doctor’s office can walk you through how to install any required software to complete a telehealth visit.
As the founding partner of Williams Law Firm, Joseph P. Williams has dedicated over 30 years to representing mesothelioma victims and their families. His firm has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for those affected by asbestos exposure, offering personalized, aggressive legal advocacy. Based in New York, Williams Law Firm provides free consultations and handles cases nationwide.
