Managing Your Chronic Condition During the Coronavirus Pandemic

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 6 in 10 Americans live with a chronic condition or illness, and 4 in 10 live with two or more of these illnesses. These numbers suggest that you or someone you love has a chronic condition, and this requires a preventative wellness plan.

Common chronic illnesses like heart disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and diabetes are typically manageable with treatment plans. The problem, especially in the Unites States, is that a lot of people who have chronic conditions are not managing their health properly. Pairing this behavior with the coronavirus pandemic has created an added level of uncertainty into treatment plans, leaving patients questioning how to get started or move forward with treatment during this unprecedented time. But there are reasons to be encouraged.

Taking charge of your health has become a growing theme in 2020, as many Americans have been home and more engaged with their family. Innovations in wellness technology and the growing number of nutritional options can help you achieve manageable control over your health and chronic conditions. There are plenty of opportunities to keep you on the right track, but it starts with a conversation with your doctor and keeping your body healthy as we all continue be mindful of spreading or contracting COVID-19.

Ways to Manage Chronic Conditions

Stay connected to your doctor!

The first step in managing any ongoing medical condition is to stay in frequent communication with your doctor and maintain your check-in appointments.

At Synergy Health 360, we’ve made this as easy and safe as possible by offering socially distant in-person appointments, as well as 24/7 telemedicine appointments to help you manage your treatment plans. We have implemented enhanced safety measures across, including increased use of personal protective equipment (PPE) by all staff, screenings for all who enter our buildings, modified use of common areas to promote social distancing, plexiglass dividers in registration areas, and increased sanitization.

Stay on track with your medications

When you meet with your doctor, be sure to bring an up-to-date list of medications with you. That way the two of you can be sure you are both on the same page as it relates to the number of medications and dosage. This provides a clear roadmap for your medication routine.

As your partner in your health, we also welcome any questions you may have during your visit.

If you have any questions about the medicines you’re taking, your healthcare provider at Synergy Health 360 can provide answers and guide you through your personal treatment plan and any concerns you have, including risks involved with COVID-19. We can also tell you if you should make any changes in your treatment plan during your wellness visits.

Organize your dosages daily

If you take several medicines throughout the day, consider creating a schedule and posting it where you’ll see it often. There are easy ways to remind yourself, too. You can do something as simple as leaving yourself a sticky note reminder, to setting alarms on your phone. You may also be able to talk with your pharmacy about sending you text message reminders. If your schedule varies from day to day, this service may be especially helpful.

Stay on top of medication refills

Refill medication rules have changed for the better due to the coronavirus. Your pharmacy can tell you if your medication is available ahead of time, and can walk you through ways you can receive your medications by way of pick up, mail order or delivery. Ordering a 90-day supply of drugs instead of a 30-day supply may be another way to stay on track. If you don’t feel comfortable coming to our clinics in person, you can schedule a telemedicine appointment. But if you do need to refill your medications, be sure to do to communicate all of this with your doctor ahead of schedule so you don’t lapse.

Cost can also make it challenging to keep up on your medications. If you’re having trouble paying for your medicine, ask your doctor about lower cost alternatives as a generic version may cost much less. Your doctor or pharmacy may also recommend organizations that can help cover the cost of medications. Some drug manufacturers also offer discounts or programs.

Reaching out when in need to is a good way to get help with managing cost.

If your struggling, ask for help

If you’re struggling to manage your medications, please don’t isolate yourself. Remember, your health is a team approach and your doctor is here to help. Don’t be afraid to reach out to your family and friends, or contact Synergy Health 360. The support of others is key to your success, and we’re with you every step of the way.

How can we help you?