Policy recommendations in response to the resurgence of COVID-19 cases for institutional medical practice from an ophthalmic perspective

Abstract

Objectives: The COVID-19 pandemic has been declared a public health emergency of international concern. Singapore was one of the first countries to identify imported cases and also experience a second wave of outbreaks. A slew of measures enacted by the government to ‘flatten the curve’ has directly impacted upon the way we practice.
 Study design/Methods: This article describes steps enacted by our department to ensure sustainability of our ophthalmic practice.
 Results: We share considerations at various time points and policies implemented in a stepwise approach in response to the worsening community situation. We further discuss our phased approach towards reinstating our services safely and effectively for patients and staff in a markedly different practice climate.
 Conclusions: The COVID-19 pandemic has markedly upended the way we practice medicine. Reflecting on the ideal measures required for such occurrences in the future will empower practices with the ability to respond effectively to future outbreaks.