We’re here to help you navigate your heart care during the COVID-19 pandemic. If you have more questions, please don’t hesitate to give us a call at 800-468-5432.

Frequently Asked Questions

Heart Patients and COVID-19

Are heart patients more at risk from coronavirus?

Yes, any underlying medical condition increases the risk of complications if you’re infected with coronavirus. If you think you’ve been exposed to coronavirus, we’re here to provide whatever care you may need. Contact us to make an appointment.

How can I protect myself? 

The best way to protect yourself is follow the current CDC guidelines. Wash your hands frequently, wear a mask when you visit public places and seek medical help if you have symptoms of fever, cough, shortness of breath or sore throat.

What should I do if I have symptoms?

Seek medical help immediately for symptoms of fever, cough, sore throat or difficulty breathing. Let your doctor know about your underlying heart condition so  any necessary precautions are taken for your care. Continue to practice all CDC guidelines and wear a mask at all times to keep those around you safe. As with other illnesses, it’s also very important to keep yourself hydrated.

Can I get tested for COVID-19? 

At this time, a COVID-19 test is only available at Loma Linda University Health facilities if a physician requested one for you. You may get tested if your doctor believes it’s medically necessary or when you come in for certain services or procedures.

If you don’t have symptoms, the CDC does not recommend getting tested.

Should I continue my current treatment plan, including medication, procedures or surgery?

Yes, you should feel safe to continue your current medications and to come in for a procedure or surgery. Studies suggest that no current medications change your risk of coronavirus infection, and all procedures are performed with the strictest safety precautions.

We’re also reopening elective surgeries and procedures for more patients, while ensuring all our patients and staff stay safe.

I think I might have a heart condition. Should I wait to see my doctor about getting diagnosed?

No, you should seek medical help as soon as possible if you believe you have a heart condition. The majority of heart conditions require prompt diagnosis for appropriate treatment. Contact us to make an appointment.

I’m worried about having a heart condition during the COVID-19 pandemic. What should I do?

Having a serious illness right now can be scary, but we’re still here for you. Seek help as soon as possible if you experience any symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, heart palpitations (awareness of your heart beating fast or irregular), or passing out (loss of consciousness), we recommend you seek help as soon as possible. These might be signs of a heart condition that requires immediate care. It’s still safe to come in for care during COVID-19, and delaying the diagnosis and treatment of a heart condition may cause significant harm.

APPOINTMENTS DURING COVID-19

Is it still safe to come to the Heart & Vascular Center?

Yes it is. We’re taking every precaution to help keep you safe when you need to come in for care. Our first priority is always the health and safety of our patients, employees, physicians and community.

If you think you have symptoms of COVID-19 or believe you’ve been exposed, please call us before coming in for care. Calling ahead helps us direct you to the most appropriate care, and take precautions to protect you and all of our patients and staff.

What are you doing to keep patients and families safe?

We’ve made our already strict safety measures even stricter to help keep patients, loved ones and staff safe. To learn more about safety measures in our hospitals, visit our Coronavirus Information and Updates page.

I have an appointment coming up. Should I keep it?

Absolutely. You should keep all appointments unless your doctor tells you otherwise. We remain your partner in managing healthcare concerns, whether in person, through video visits or over the telephone. 

I need to see my doctor. Can I make a new appointment?

Yes, we are accepting new appointment requests. In addition to in-person clinic visits, we’re also offering both video visits and telephone visits for certain appointments. Please call us to discuss how we can best meet your medical needs. Make an appointment today.

Are you accepting new patients right now?

Yes, we are accepting new patients for video, telephone and in-person visits.