Spring Valley Pediatrics remained available to care for children throughout the COVID-19 pandemic while taking additional precautions to protect patients, families, and staff. Families with possible COVID-19 symptoms or exposure were asked to call the office before arriving so a pediatrician could determine whether an in-office visit, testing, telemedicine appointment, or supportive care at home was appropriate. The practice also followed guidance from public health authorities and pediatric infectious disease experts.
As the number of cases of COVID-19 increases in our community and across the nation, we want to protect the health of our patients and families by doing our part as a practice to flatten the curve.
As always, we are only a phone call away. We will continue to see patients every day. We will continue to have our morning call-in times. We will continue to have a doctor on call every night. If you have questions or concerns about your child, please call our office.
We can all do our part to help our community by doing our best to stop transmission of the virus. If you or your family member has a dry cough, fever, sore throat, exposure to Coronavirus or a concern about Coronavirus, please call 202-966-5000 BEFORE you come to the office. We will discuss what is going on and determine if a visit is appropriate. If it is determined that the patient should be seen in the office, we will set up a time to do so as soon as possible. If testing is recommended, we will discuss how to proceed. Please be advised that in an effort to reduce the risk of transmitting infection, we are allowing only ONE CAREGIVER to be present in the office for each visit.
Depending on the individual situation, we may also be able to conduct a face-to-face telemedicine visit. During these visits, the doctor will evaluate the situation, examine the patient on-screen if possible, and determine the best course of action.
If supportive care at home and/or quarantine is the proper strategy, we will discuss how to do so most effectively.
Know that we are following COVID-19 closely and consulting with the health departments, local pediatric infectious disease experts, and following the guidance of the AAP and CDC. Please refer to our web page and social media sites for additional updates.
Stay well!
The team at Spring Valley Pediatrics
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if my child has possible COVID-19 symptoms?
The original practice update asked families to call Spring Valley Pediatrics before coming to the office if a child or family member had symptoms such as fever, dry cough, or sore throat, or had been exposed to coronavirus. The office could then determine the appropriate next step.
Should I call before bringing my child to the pediatrician with COVID-19 concerns?
Yes. The practice asked families with possible coronavirus symptoms, exposure, or other COVID-19 concerns to call 202-966-5000 before arriving at the office.
Does Spring Valley Pediatrics see sick children in the office?
Yes. The update explained that Spring Valley Pediatrics continued seeing patients every day. When an in-office evaluation was appropriate, the practice arranged a time for the patient to be seen.
Did Spring Valley Pediatrics offer telemedicine visits?
Yes. Depending on the situation, the practice could conduct a face-to-face telemedicine visit. During these appointments, the pediatrician could discuss symptoms, evaluate the child on-screen when possible, and recommend the appropriate next steps.
What happens if my child needs COVID-19 testing?
The original update stated that if testing was recommended, the Spring Valley Pediatrics team would discuss with the family how to proceed. Because testing recommendations and availability have changed since the pandemic began, families should contact the office for current information.
