Coronavirus Updates for the VEO-IBD Program
Updated December 18, 2020
As we navigate this challenging, stressful time together, we want you to know that we in the VEO-IBD Program are here for you. There are many precautions we are taking to support broader public health efforts to reduce opportunities for spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19). We are monitoring the situation closely and adapting our policies as needed to ensure the safety of our patients, families and staff. Please note this is a rapidly evolving situation. We will be updating our community regularly with key information. The current surge in cases nationwide has not impacted our ability to provide care safely.
Read below for more details about our current efforts to reduce the risk of inadvertent exposure to COVID-19:
Outpatient/clinic visits
At this time, our clinic staff and providers are taking extra precautions to ensure the safety and comfort of our patients who come to see us in clinic. We are screening patients and families for potential COVID-19 exposures and symptoms prior to arrival, following universal masking protocols, ensuring social distancing in our waiting rooms and following more stringent sanitation protocols in our clinics. When appropriate, some appointments may be converted to a video consult. Read below for more details on these new telehealth options available to families.
Telehealth video visits
The VEO-IBD Program is actively using telehealth, including video visits, as an alternative to some in-person visits when it is clinically safe and appropriate to do so.
- Current patients: We are looking at every appointment and evaluating the best way to connect with you about your child’s care. We will contact you to discuss options for any upcoming appointments. In the meantime, we encourage you to sign in to your MyCHOP account to ensure you can successfully access your account. If you have questions, or need to sign up for MyCHOP, please call us at 215-590-7423.
- New patients: If you are seeking a second opinion or a consultation with us, telehealth may be an option. Please check with your health plan to confirm that your insurance covers video visits. Call us at 215-590-7423 and our staff will assist you.
Resources and tip sheets: Find instructions for getting set up for video visits with us. Some of our patients will need imaging studies for their visit. If this is the case, our staff will contact you with instructions on how to upload radiology imaging for you telehealth visit.
Elective surgeries/procedures
At this time, we are performing all urgent and elective surgeries and procedures that our patients need for their care, with extra precautions in place to ensure the wellbeing of all patients and providers. If your child requires surgery, please note that they will be tested for COVID-19 before undergoing the procedure. Testing 1-3 days before the scheduled procedure is required and can be done at a CHOP site with a referral from your care team.
Second opinions and new patients
The VEO-IBD Program continues to accept new patients and requests for second opinions at this time. Depending on the specific problem, the consultation could be in person, or through telemedicine, as medically appropriate. Please check with your health plan to confirm that your insurance covers video visits with CHOP providers. If you’re seeking a second opinion or looking to refer a new patient, call us at 215-590-7423.
Additional safety information during the COVID-19 pandemic
IMPORTANT REMINDER: If you or your child develops a fever and symptoms of respiratory illness, contact your medical provider immediately. Before you go to a doctor’s office or emergency room, call ahead and tell them about your/your child’s symptoms. They will coordinate safe testing and treatment and get you the care you need.
Read more about reduced entry for parents, caregivers and siblings, cleaning protocols, protective masks, and the many other safety measures in place:
Helpful resources
Check out these additional resources to help you keep your family informed and healthy.
We know this is a challenging time and we thank you for your understanding and partnership in keeping our patients, families and staff safe.