Pulse – July 2021

DIRECTOR’S DESK CHRISTINA R. GHALY, MD DIRECTOR

It feels like we have been on a roller coaster ride these last few months. There are twists and turns as we seek to find our way out of this pandemic. Recently the indoor mask mandate has returned to Los Angeles County as COVID-19 case rates and hospitalizations are on the rise. Of those who are hospitalized for COVID-19 in LA County hospitals, over 99% are unvaccinated or not fully vaccinated. We must continue to encourage those in our lives who are not vaccinated, if they are eligible, to get the vaccine, so we can fully get to a new normal. Increasing the numbers of those who are fully vaccinated is key to helping LA County’s businesses and schools stay fully open, to protecting vulnerable members of our community (including children under 12 who cannot yet get vaccinated), and to reducing the likelihood that this virus continues to mutate. Remember, viruses need a host to mutate and getting vaccinated significantly reduces your risk of being a host.

While COVID-19 hospitalization rates are steadily increasing, there is still time to halt this surge. Unlike last year, this time we have a solution! So please take time to read this month’s articles on COVID-19 vaccine confidence – we are all in this together.

As we adjust to the changes that come our way, we have been steadfast in our commitment to care. Right now, more than ever, face-to-face care for our patients is important as many have postponed seeing their care providers in person over the last year. Our goal is to get patients safely back into care, coupled with virtual/telehealth care as appropriate. Regular check-ups and screenings can help prevent serious conditions. In-person care is especially important for vulnerable patients who cannot easily navigate telehealth and those with complex health histories.

The time in isolation may have aggravated pre-existing conditions and should be evaluated. There is also evidence that stress related to the pandemic has increased the incidence of mental health and substance use disorders, which can be treated.

This is also a great time to see pediatric patients. As children are preparing to return to in-person school after a year of remote learning, it’s a good time to schedule annual physical and wellness exams and get the necessary immunizations. Children ages 12 and over are eligible for the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine.

As always, we will continue to take precautions to keep staff and patients safe. We are monitoring COVID-19 positivity rates in the area and adapting our practices accordingly. Health Services staff are highly resilient, and I am grateful knowing that you make our patients feel welcome and safe to resume care.

The past year contributed to many innovations within the department. It was remarkable to see how staff stepped up to create new ways of delivering care for our patients and caring for each other in unpredictable times. Although we never actually closed and continued seeing patients throughout the pandemic, I am grateful for the progress we have made and continue to make.

Thank you for going above and beyond for our patients, their families and our communities.

Dr. Christina Ghaly