I have been very fortunate: so far, I have been able to stay isolated. I leave my apartment for occasional walks, wearing a mask and keeping my distance from people. The only indoor space I have entered is the main building of my apartment complex where I have gone a few times to pick up packages; even then, I have been able to keep my distance from people. I have even been able to have short visits with my parents. We stay outdoors, at least 10 feet apart, wearing masks. It’s not ideal, but I’m very grateful for those visits. I have been very lucky, but how long can that last?
From the start I knew I would likely break isolation for medical treatment. I didn’t know when or why, but I figured that would be the reason and it looks like I might be right. Frankly, it’s a bit shocking that I have been able to go for 3 months without in-person medical treatment. I am feeling the effects, of course. My muscles are spasming, I haven’t gotten my period in more than 4 months, my knees are so inflamed that my knee braces no longer fit (those marks on my knee are definitely not ok!), and I am pretty sure that I have increased inflammation throughout my body. It’s not good.
On top of that, I am due for a lot of followup blood tests, one doctor wants me to get xrays, and I can not get the new orthodics that I have needed for months and which insurance will finally cover as of last week. Some of the blood tests I should get are routine. Some are following up on issues which are probably fine. But one is to follow up on something potentially serious. I should have gotten the tests done last month, but we have been waiting.
My doctors are weighing risks versus rewards, and they are not in agreement. One thinks I should get blood tests while another thinks that I should wait. One thought I should wait for physical therapy but now has changed their mind. Of course, each doctor has different considerations. My need for physical therapy wasn’t as big last month as it is now. Some blood tests are more necessary than others. Some doctors are more conservative than others. Some are more aware of my risk factors than others.
I am not as high-risk for Covid-19 complications and some folks. Still, I am more at risk than many, and I do not want to put myself at risk if I can avoid it. Then again, my symptoms will only continue to get worse and it is not as if it is a matter of waiting just one more month. It could be a year or more before I can safely see any of my medical practitioners, so waiting might not be the best approach.
Logically, I know that now might be a good time to get treatment. After all, the numbers are expected to go up soon. Still, it doesn’t feel safe. We don’t know much more about this illness than we did in March. We don’t have any additional safety measures, either, except for wearing masks.
So I am scared, unsure, and worried that I will make the wrong decision. There is no “right” decision, though. I don’t have a crystal ball. Sooner or later I will need to get medical care and I will either become ill or I won’t but until then, the best I can do is make a guess.
I am beyond frustrated that people in my area, and especially politicians, are not taking this situation more seriously. I am watching them engage in risky behavior that could contribute to the spread of this virus for the sake of a meal at a restaurant or a haircut, while people like me are delaying important medical care. And even as I type this, I am in so much pain that could be alleviated with physical therapy. It is so unfair.
Like I said, I know that I am lucky. Many people have not had the option of delaying medical care. Some of them have been able to get care without incident, while others were not as fortunate. I look forward to the day when we can all access care without fear (or at least with much less fear) of contracting this virus.
What has your experience been like accessing medical care during this time? And where are you located? I know that the situation is very different in different countries (and even in different regions within my own country.) Please comment and share, because I’m curious to know what others are doing. Best of luck to you all!
Chronic Rants 
I fully understand this constant weighing risk verses reward. Like you I am mostly staying isolated, but a few weeks ago I did have a sports therapy massage, it was a hard decision but it was necessary. Likewise having a blood test which was actually a lot less stressful than I expected as I didn’t have to touch anythinh, and everyone was wearing masks.x
Of course every situation is different, and it changes daily with our chronic illnesses. But my opinion is, if you are reaching your pain threshold it is worth it if precautions are being taken, as not only will it help physically, but also mentally as you won’t be constantly thinking about it. Covid is scary, but the truth is we will be living with it for the next few years at best and you can’t go that long without medical care. Obviously weigh the risks of how bad it is right now, but you will never be sure, and personally I feel what’s the point of being safe from covid if you’re not safe from your medical conditions? (Again, just my opinion, only you knows what’s right for you.) Be safe x
I’m glad you’re able to get the medical treatment you need right now in a way that feels safe. These decisions are so hard to make, especially since there are so many unknowns right now. Good luck! I hope you continue to have the access you need.