07/06/2020
Coronavirus / COVID-19 Update 7/06/2020
First and foremost, I hope you and your family continue to remain in good health. All of us have been stressed in multiple ways through 2020; all of us still look forward to resuming preferred routines. However, locally (in Florida / Seminole County), pandemic infection and hospitalization rates are rising. While most persons recognize the pandemic threat, exercising safety and prudent caution to limit contracting or spreading this virus, a smaller group of others (probably asymptomatic) do not. In guarding the safety of others, as well as myself, my office practice will continue to emphasize safety and prudent caution by usage of facial coverings and social distancing.
After closing the office March 27, 2020 due to the pandemic, I re-opened the office May 18, 2020 with safety guidelines for in-office visits. Continuity of treatment for those preferring remote access to sessions was preserved; telephone consultations and/or internet teleconferencing were made feasible by insurance companies modifying guidelines and offering reimbursement for Psychologists (and other healthcare professionals) for Telebehavioral services. As noted in my previous update, it is unclear for how long those changes will remain in force; some companies have extended through 9/30/2020, others indicate they are continuing to monitor and re-assess, while Congress is debating a bill extending services until 6 months after the pandemic has passed. As I indicated in my previous update, if you are using insurance to pay for treatment, and are interested in continuing “remote access” treatment, consult with your healthcare insurer about their policies in terms of any deadlines in terms of reimbursing Psychologists/Behavioral Health Providers going forward.
As of July 2020 the office remains OPEN. Patients continue to have 3 options for psychotherapy sessions: 1) coming in to the office; 2) having sessions by telephone; or 3) having sessions via internet teleconferencing. It is each patient’s choice about how to proceed with psychotherapy, by coming to the office in Longwood or by using technology to have remote sessions.
For all patients having psychotherapy sessions at the office, I ask you to abide by 2 safety precautions: 1) wear a face mask or face covering for the duration of your visit; and 2) use social distancing - maintain 6 feet from others in the office. You are free to use additional safety clothing, such as gloves. There is hand sanitizer available for your use. One further precaution: If you are feeling ill on the day of your scheduled session, I ask that you call and arrange to have the session remotely or re-schedule.
Business hours have not changed; I am seeing patients on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 10 AM through last appointment at 6-7 PM. Sessions are available in person, by telephone, or via internet teleconferencing. You can schedule sessions using TherapyAppointment.com - please note that there is no way to indicate your preference for in-office or remote access when scheduling. If you need to change your previously noted preference, please alert me as to your new preference by leaving a voicemail on the office line (407.362.5930; no text messages).
As noted in the past, and as I will undoubtedly continue to repeat to all my patients in the future: I appreciate the opportunity to provide you with psychological care and I applaud your courage in doing the hard and beneficial work of psychotherapy.
Be Well. Be Safe.
Dr. R.
