Maintaining Your Child’s Health During a Pandemic

The last few months have presented unprecedented challenges for all of us. One particular concern for families with children is maintaining a child’s health and calendar of wellness check-ups as we continue to monitor changes to the COVID-19 health crisis.

We have received many inquiries about pediatric care during the current pandemic, and we wanted to make sure you have the most up-to-date information and guidelines to ensure you and your family are receiving the best medical care now….and always.

Below you will find answers to some frequently asked questions.

Should I cancel my child’s appointment because of COVID-19?

NO. It is important you keep yourself and your family healthy during this time. If you have an existing appointment for a pediatric wellness visit at one of our practices, we encourage you to keep it. If you have missed a recent appointment, it is recommended you reschedule as soon as possible.
Rest assured, we have enhanced safety measures at all of our facilities to protect you and your family from any exposure.

If my child is due for immunizations, should I make an appointment?

YES. Now, more than ever, we want to ensure that all children (and adults) have the full protection that immunizations provide. Keeping your children healthy and vaccinated is an essential step in maintaining their immune system during COVID-19 as under-immunized children are at an even greater risk to themselves and others during a pandemic. Not rescheduling a canceled immunization appointment—or failing to meet an upcoming appointment—leaves your child at risk of contracting a vaccine-preventable disease and weakening their immune system during a major health crisis. A large-scale failure to maintain immunizations could also lead to a secondary outbreak of vaccine-preventable diseases, which could further strain our healthcare system.

We strongly advise you keep or reschedule your child’s wellness appointments and maintain the recommended vaccination schedule.

How do I know if my child is due for a check-up or vaccination?

If you are unsure if your child is due for an immunization, please review the 2020 Childhood Immunization Schedule. If you need assistance, contact your primary care physician. A team member at any of our practices will be happy to answer any questions you may have and can schedule any required appointments.

Is it safe to bring my child to Valley View, or any of your centers, at this time?

YES. We have implemented additional safety measures to ensure you and your family are safe. Valley View Hospital, our physician practices, and specialty centers all have additional screening and protocols in place for when you come to see us. Specifically:

• Non-COVID-19 patients are treated in designated areas of our hospital and clinics, separate from COVID-19 patients.
• Patients and staff are screened for COVID-19 symptoms before entering our facilities, and everyone is required to wear a mask.
• Contact with our caregivers is limited during your visit.
• Patients scheduled for surgery are receiving COVID-19 testing.
• Seating in public areas and waiting rooms is limited to allow for physical distancing.
• Magazines and paper materials have been removed to maintain cleanliness.
• All of our locations are cleaned and disinfected regularly.

We encourage you to review the visiting guidelines before coming in to make sure you and your family are safe, and the appointment can go ahead as planned.

What should I do if my child is sick or displaying COVID-19 symptoms on the day of their scheduled visit?

If you or your child is ill the day of the visit, please contact us BEFORE coming in. We can evaluate your symptoms over the phone, and we may be able to proceed with your scheduled appointment if deemed appropriate. If we think it best to avoid interaction with others, our team will first ensure your immediate health and safety, work with you to treat any current symptoms, and reschedule your appointment as needed.

Rescheduling a Child Wellness or Immunization Visit

To reschedule your child wellness or immunization visit, please contact one of our practices.

Pediatric Partners
Glenwood Springs | Willits | Silt
970.947.9999

Roaring Fork Family Practice
Cabondale | Willits
970.963.3350

Eagle Valley Family Practice
Eagle
970.328.6357

Silt Family Practice
Silt
970.876.5700

The Valley View family is here for you.