SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO.com) — Sioux Falls doctors stressed the importance of getting caught up on medical care as hospitals re-start procedures put on hold at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Avera Chief Medical Officer Dr. Mike Elliott and Sanford Chief Medical Officer Dr. Mike Wilde both encouraged people to see the doctor when they need it at Sioux Falls’ municipal coronavirus briefing Thursday.
Elliott specifically mentioned those putting off procedures like screening exams or immunizations for children.
“Please, please, call your physician’s clinic. Schedule these things,” he said. “Our health and safety has been a top priority; it remains that. And we can’t forget the other aspects of health care that go along with maintaining health.”
Wilde said it was appropriate to put certain procedures on hold when the pandemic began but said he agreed with Elliott that people shouldn’t put off appointments any longer.
Outside of the doctor’s office, Wilde emphasized personal responsibility in mitigating the effects of the pandemic.
“If staying at home right now is in your best interest, do so, because there are people with compelling indications to do that,” Wilde said. “For the most part, things are opening up and that’s a good thing.”
(KELO.com News Director Todd Epp contributed to this report.)
