COVID-19, Coronavirus
Information and Protocol

We want to support you, our Apex family, during this challenging time. Below is information to help guide you whether you are coming in for an appointment or simply would benefit from additional resources.

Please note, this page will be continuously updated to reflect any changes to our policy and procedures.

Dermatology appointments, emergency protocol for COVID-19

Per the Governor’s order, we will be welcoming back dermatology patients in-office beginning on May 1st.

The safety of our patients and staff remains top priority, and we know the threat and danger of COVID-19 is far from gone. Therefore, we have put in place additional guidelines for both patients and staff.

TeleDermatology

Virtual Visits remain available to you: We are proud that we were able to quickly adapt and offer TeleDermatology to our patients during this challenging time. The process is simple and accessible to just about everyone. If you prefer to stay home, TeleDermatology is a great way for you to do so while also keeping your skin healthy. You will see the same expert board-certified dermatologists through TeleMed that you will in-office.

In-office appointments

While TeleDermatology is the best choice for some, in-office visits are best for others. With the limitations on in-office visits lifted, you may now choose to come in-office for any dermatology need.

Please be aware, however, that we have implemented changes to ensure the health and safety of our patients, our staff, and our community at-large.

Face coverings are required: All patients must wear a face mask, bandana, or scarf. You will see that all staff will be wearing face masks as well. This is an important precaution to help prevent the spread of the virus.

Temperature will be taken upon arrival: Upon arrival at your appointment you will be screened with several questions and your temperature will be taken. This is for your safety, as well as for all other patients and staff, and the community at large.

Our staff is also being screened daily.

Social distancing and capacity limit: To make it easier to maintain social distance while in our office, we have placed decals on the floor marking spaces 6 feet apart in any communal areas, as well as arrows to direct the traffic flow. Chairs are spaced apart in the waiting areas and are cleaned in between every patient.

Additional sterilization protocols are being followed by staff to ensure cleanliness and safety throughout the office including exam rooms, the lab, and the waiting room.

We will also be limiting the total number of people in the office at any given time to half of normal capacity. Our teams will manage this with the schedule, so please rest assured that if you are scheduled to be seen, we will be seeing you.

If possible, please attend the appointment by yourself.

Key information about COVID-19

What is COVID-19?

COVID-19 is a new virus strain, first identified in Wuhan, China, that began in humans in December 2019.

Health experts are closely monitoring the situation because little is known about this new virus and it has the potential to cause severe illness, pneumonia, and death. The most vulnerable groups are the elderly and those with certain pre-existing conditions.

How does COVID-19 spread?

COVID-19 is primarily spread through respiratory droplets, which means to become infected, people generally must be within six feet of someone who is contagious. It is also possible that a person can get COVID-19 by touching a surface or object that has the virus on it and then touching their own mouth, nose, or eyes.

What are the symptoms?

The most common symptoms can include fever, cough, runny nose, and difficulty breathing. However, many patients are showing different symptoms such as fatigue and nausea. Additionally, 1 in 5 COVID-19 patients will have a skin rash. If you have a rash, please schedule a TeleDermatology appointment with us.

How long does it take for symptoms of COVID-19 to appear?

CDC believes that symptoms of COVID-19 may appear in as few as one day, or as long as 14 days after exposure.

How is COVID-19 treated?

There is currently no FDA approved medication for COVID-19. People infected with this virus should receive supportive care such as rest, fluids and fever control, to help relieve symptoms. Some patients can recover at home, while more serious cases will need treated in healthcare facilities.

How can I best protect myself?

  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
  • Avoid shaking hands.
  • Stay home as much as possible, especially if you are sick or have been in contact with someone who is sick.
  • Get enough sleep, eat a healthy diet, drink plenty of liquids and exercise if you are able. These steps will strengthen your immune system and enable you to fight off infections easier.
  • Sanitize frequently touched objects and surfaces.
  • Stay up to date on safety recommendations.
  • Avoid close contact (within 6 feet) with non-immediate family members.

What do I need to now about the COVID-19 vaccine in relation to skincare?

  • The FDA reported that three out of over 30,000 patients who received the Moderna vaccine had swelling and inflammation in the area treated with filler. There have been no reported cases in patients receiving the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine.

  • Two of the patients had cheek filler six months before the vaccine and one patient was treated with lip filler two days after the vaccine

  • All three patients were treated with prednisone and anti-histamines and the reaction resolved. None of the cases required the use of an EpiPen or hospitalization. None were considered life-threatening, and there were no long-term complications in those who reported having facial swelling after receiving the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine

  • The vaccine is meant to stimulate an immune response; most likely the immune system reacted with the filler since it not a natural substance in the body.

  • The American Society for Dermatological Surgery (ASDS) has recently released the following consensus statement: “Given currently available data, patients already treated with dermal fillers should not be discouraged or precluded from receiving vaccines of any kind. Similarly, patients who have had vaccines should not be precluded from receiving dermal fillers in the future.”

  • The risks from acquiring and being infected with the COVID-19 virus far outweigh the risks from a reaction to one of the vaccines if the patient has a history of using dermal fillers.

Where can I learn more?