DIHFS COVID-19 Update

3/26/2020

Updates from Denver Indian Health and Family Services

In the best interest of serving and protecting our patients, staff, and community, DIHFS will begin providing care telephonically for the next four weeks. Outreach and community events have been postponed until further notice. What does this mean for our patients?

Patient care

Provider visits will be done over the phone
To schedule, call our front desk at 303-953-6600
We'll continue sending prescriptions and referrals through our electronic medical record
- If you need a hard copy, make arrangements with our front desk
The Dental Clinic will not see patients at this time, call 303-953-6601 to get information on referral sites

Medications
If you currently use an outside pharmacy (like King Soopers, Walgreens, Walmart, etc.) and you need refills, contact your pharmacy directly and they will let us know if more refills need to be authorized.

If you currently get your medications from the pharmacy at DIHFS, call us at 303-953-6610 to arrange from the following:

Curbside pick-up for patients picking up medications at DIHFS
Medications that do not require special handling (like insulin) can be mailed directly to patients. This option is encouraged for patients
- over 60 years of age
- at increased risk for illness due to COVID-19
- with symptoms of upper respiratory illness (fever, cough, and shortness of breath)
Refill requests for medications to treat chronic conditions (like diabetes, high blood pressure, asthma/COPD, depression, etc.) will be filled for 90 days when possible
All pharmacy visits for drug therapy management will be done over the phone

Please call our front desk at 303-953-6600 if you have further questions.

Continue taking steps to protect yourself

Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol when soap and water are not available
Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands
Avoid close contact with people who are sick and stay home if you are sick
Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces daily - this includes tables, doorknobs, light switches, counter-tops, handles, desks, phones, keyboards, toilets, faucets, and sinks
Practice social distancing and avoid unnecessary travel

Sources: WHO and CDC

Continue taking steps to care for yourself

The COVID-19 outbreak and practicing social distancing may be stressful for some people. Everyone reacts to stress differently. Here are some ways to maintain your wellness during this time:

Maintain a healthy lifestyle - eat well-balanced meals, exercise regularly, get plenty of sleep, and avoid alcohol and drugs
Get the facts from credible sources like Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and World Health Organization
Take breaks from media coverage and social media
Social distancing doesn't mean social disconnection. Connect with friends and family by phone, email, messaging, and Facetime
Practice relaxing techniques such as deep breathing, stretching, meditating, praying, and grounding exercises
Engage in activities you enjoy like reading, listening to music, dancing, beading, quilting, or creating art
Reach out for support
- SAMHSA's Disaster Distress Helpline - 1-800-985-5990
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline - 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
- Colorado Crisis Services 1-800-493-TALK (8255) or text TALK to 38255.

Sources: WHO, CDC, Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, and Urban Indian Health Institute

Continue taking steps to support your child

Youth may be feeling overwhelmed about the COVID-19 outbreak. Here are some tips to help parents and caregivers:

Take time to talk with your child or teen - provide facts and clear information about the COVID-19 outbreak
Listen to their concerns and let them know it's okay if they feel upset. Reassure children and teens that they are safe
Monitor their media - children may misinterpret what they hear and can be frightened about something they do not understand
Try to keep up with regular routines as much as possible
Make opportunities for children to play and relax
Be a good role model

Sources: WHO, CDC, and American Academy of Pediatrics

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