Likely by now you have heard the words “Covid-19” or “Coronavirus” – who hasn’t? This virus causes mild to severe respiratory illnesses and has led to thousands of deaths in the U.S. and around the world. The pandemic has caused stress, fear, and trepidation, feelings which can sometimes take over one’s day. Life is crazy enough as it is, but then add a potential pregnancy on top of all that’s going on, and a person can feel overwhelmed.
Still Here, Making Adjustments
We want you to know we are still here and working for our patients at True Care. We took some time recently to evaluate everything we do, from our cleaning procedures to how we serve our patients. Unfortunately, I cannot sit cozily in my office anymore; we have to be six feet apart from patients, so I have made some adjustments. We are limiting the number of people in the building, so I began collecting and distributing paperwork in the parking lot. I am now working off-site, talking to patients by phone, and conducting other duties by email and telephone.
A few weeks ago, I met with Leslie a 31-year-old woman who is new to Wyoming and having twins. The first words out of her mouth were: “What a terrible time to get pregnant!” She said the world has gone a little mad. During this time of uncertainty she felt reassured that I was able to help her apply for Medicaid. The Wyoming Medicaid office in Cheyenne has made some adjustments on their end and are allowing part of the Medicaid application to be done by phone. Leslie is fearful of the virus and anxious about having twins, but she said she felt much better after coming to True Care and was “amazed” that we were able to address all her resource needs.
I also recently followed up with a patient by phone who stated she had been laid off due to the coronavirus and now is in need of resources. Normally I would schedule an appointment with her and we would fill out applications together. She wanted to apply for food stamps. Instead of mailing her a blank application, I filled out what I could and mailed the application with highlighted parts for her to fill out and sign. It is stressing enough to be pregnant during this time; we at True Care want to do everything we can to reduce anxiety. I’m still doing my job – helping women who need numerous resources, especially during this unique time of unprecedented unemployment. Whether it’s Medicaid, housing, food stamps, employment, drug rehabilitation, stop smoking, or other resources, I am still able to help pregnant women in need. Just differently.
Living & Working Differently
The world is doing things differently as well. Since people are social distancing, there are many ways to still engage and enjoy life. You cannot go to the movie theater, but you can watch newly-released movies at home. You can even go online and order popcorn and candy from the theater and then it up curbside. You can also do online shopping at some of the grocery stores and Walmart and pick up at curbside. Wyoming Food Bank of the Rockies is even offering ‘drive-thru’ food pantries.
We do not want to abandon our patients during this critical time. They still need to know for sure if they are pregnant and what their options are as well as and get the resources available. Therefore, we will continue to serve women experiencing unplanned pregnancies during the COVID-19 health crisis in new and innovative ways.
Seek Help If Needed
If you are feeling anxious, please do a quick mental health check. Seek help if you feel suicidal or overly anxious. Reach out to The Suicide Hotline at 1-800-273-8255. Make sure you are connecting with friends and family by phone, Facetime, or some other means of communication. Go outside for a walk. Make sure you are eating healthy and drinking plenty of water.
I urge everyone not to panic; life won’t be like this forever. Please know those of us at True Care are thinking about you and praying for you during this difficult time – and we are here for you.
If you are experiencing an unplanned pregnancy and need initial medical care and resources, contact our Scheduling Line to make your free appointment with one of our nurses: 307-215-9684.