Is the Fear of COVID-19 Delaying Your Trip to the ER?

It’s deadly to fear the emergency room, even during a pandemic

Data from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention shows a dramatic decrease in the number of people seeking emergency care since the pandemic began in March, concluding that some may be afraid of getting the medical treatment they so desperately need.

“Not seeking emergency care can prove to be life-threatening for many conditions, including heart attack, stroke, asthma, and complications from diabetes,” said Dr. Miryala, medical director of Community First ER. “Avoiding the ER can result in a variety of other health issues and even death, which is why we urge you to receive the care you need before it’s too late.”
Dr. Miryala, Medical Director – Community First ER

Emergency Rooms are safe

It’s understandable to be anxious about contracting the coronavirus when going to the ER for something unrelated. However, since the virus was declared a pandemic, hospitals and emergency rooms have learned what to do to keep themselves and their patients safe, and facilities clean.

Community First ER is safe, too!

Community First ER, a convenient, state-of-the-art ER designed to deliver the most effective, efficient emergency care, is no exception. We maintain strict infection prevention measures and precautions, going above and beyond what is recommended by health officials. You can rest easy and have peace of mind knowing that we have implemented the following protocols and safety measures:

Masking: All team members are required to wear masks, and anyone entering our facility (patient, caregiver, etc.) must be wearing one to enter. If someone isn’t wearing a mask, we will furnish one for them.
Isolation: We limit patient visitors, minimize touch points, and have a seamless flow through our facility.
Screening: We are conducting thorough screenings on anyone who enters our doors.
Frequent cleaning and disinfecting: Waiting areas, restrooms, exam rooms, and other areas are cleaned and disinfected regularly.

You can be confident in your decision to seek care for you, your child, or elderly parents at our facility.

You won’t clog up the system

When COVID-19 first emerged, there was a concern that hospitals and other health care facilities would run out of much-needed supplies to care for patients with the virus. Officials told us to stay home to “flatten the curve” and not overwhelm the ERs.

While it is still essential to socially distance, avoid large gatherings, and stay home when you can, if you have a legitimate emergency, it’s necessary to receive medical attention when conditions warrant. Not doing so can have dire consequences for you and your family and result in permanent damage to your health or that of your loved one.

How you can protect yourself and your loved ones

Should you need emergency care, there are several steps you can take to help protect yourself and family members from the coronavirus when you go to the ER.

Community First ER suggests you do the following to stay safe in any public area, including the ER, to help decrease the spread of the coronavirus:

Wearing a cloth face mask.
Avoiding touching your ears, eyes, or nose.
Keeping a social distance of 6 feet from others.
Wash your hands with warm soap and water for 20 seconds or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.

Don’t “wait and see”

Pain is your body’s way of telling you that something just isn’t right. Chest pain, for instance, could be an indication that you are experiencing a heart attack. A bad headache, coupled with high blood pressure, could signify a stroke. Stomach pains could suggest you have appendicitis or an ulcer. A child falling off her skateboard and hitting her head on the cement could lead to a severe concussion if it’s not checked out.

It’s better to rule out various issues than live in a “wait and see mode,” hoping symptoms go away.

We strongly encourage you to see us and not delay emergency treatment of any kind.

Seek emergency treatment for life-threatening symptoms

It’s critical to go to an ER near you if you or a family member is experiencing any of the following:

Heart attack signs and symptoms, including chest pain or pressure; pain in one or both arms, stomach, back, or jaw; shortness of breath; or nausea or lightheadedness.
Stroke signs and symptoms, such as a drooping face, arm weakness, or slurred speech. Other signs and symptoms can include sudden numbness, confusion, vision difficulties, difficulty walking, or sudden headache.
Fainting, dizziness, or weakness.
Head or spine injury.
Injury from a car or motorcycle accident.
Sudden or severe pain.
Bleeding that you can’t stop.
Severe or long-lasting vomiting or diarrhea.

This list is not exhaustive. If you or a family member is experiencing any emergency symptoms, please consider getting medical attention as soon as possible. Don’t let the fear of COVID-19 prevent you from getting the medical care you need.

Emergency symptoms of COVID-19

If you or a family member is exhibiting any of the following signs and symptoms of the coronavirus, please take action:

Trouble breathing
Persistent chest pain or pressure
Inability to stay awake
New confusion
Blue lips or face

If you are experiencing these or any other coronavirus symptoms, we are offering rapid COVID-19 PCR testing and can quickly analyze your results. We are open 24/7 for your convenience. All patients will receive a prompt evaluation by our clinical team, and our physicians will decide which tests and treatments are appropriate. You will be treated in a comfortable and safe environment.

We are here to help

At Community First ER, we are committed to providing you the best possible care now and always. We have both adult and pediatric emergency care available. We have a team of medical and surgical specialists that we consult with to help manage our patients and their medical emergencies. We form relationships with local doctors to ensure that our patients have access to the best specialists for their individual needs.

About Community First ER

Emergency health care, especially in the time of a pandemic, is a critical resource. Our commitment is to provide a personal, transparent, and concierge-driven emergency health care experience to members of our community. Locally owned and operated by health care providers and partners we trust; we strive to support and create meaningful relationships with those around us. We exist to put your health and wellness first.

For more information call 24/7, visit or engage with us on social media