03/16/2020    Todd Lamster, DPM

Coronavirus Crisis - Podiatric Medical Risks (Michael Marcus, DPM

I will remain open during the duration of this
outbreak until I become ill, or until the
government shuts me down. I cannot speak for
others, but I am 42 and in good health, making me
low risk. If other colleagues are in poor health,
then it is up to their discretion to do what is
best for them.

Additionally, we as medical professionals are
bombarded by bacteria, fungi, and viruses. We
fight these potential pathogens all day every
day. We must remain diligent for symptoms, and my
staff and I diligently clean all counters,
surfaces, exam chairs, etc, multiple times per
day. We ourselves also practice good hygiene. Any
patient who feels ill is advised to call their
PCP, or in the event feel very ill, go to the ER
ASAP. All patient are allowed to reschedule my
appointment at any time.

Financially, closing down may be a significant
hardship, or even impossible, for some. It is my
hope that our federal government will step in and
help small businesses cope with what could be a
severe loss in revenue. And how long would we
shutdown? Is this going to be a 2-week problem,
or something that will likely persist or become
seasonal? Can you shut down for 2 to 3 months
until this passes (if it passes)?

Lastly, all the pathologies we are used to seeing
on a daily basis do not take a vacation during
the Covid-19 crisis. Infections and wounds are
still present, and our patients still need us to
prevent horrible events like sepsis and limb
loss. Patients still suffer with foot pain and a
multitude of other problems, and need our help
and professional services. These factors will
keep me open during this event and I plan to stay
open for as long as I can.

Todd Lamster, DPM, Scottsdale, AZ

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