COVID-19 CalDerm Statement & Resources for California Dermatologists

There are approximately 2000 Dermatologists practicing in California. Whether in large hospital settings, multi-specialty groups or private practice, we have all been affected by these unprecedented times. On March 19, 2020, Governor Newsom issued Executive Order N-33-20 directing all residents to heed current State public health directives to stay home, except to maintain operations of critical infrastructure and additional sectors as the State Public Health Officer may designate as critical to protect the health and well-being of all Californians. The State Public Health Officer list and full statement is attached here:

California State Public Health Officer statement of "Essential Critical Infrastructure Workers"

Current CDC guidelines indicate that patients with non-essential or elective medical and surgical services should be rescheduled. UCSF, CMPC, Sutter Health, Dignity Health and Kaiser Permanente are among the list of hospital and ambulatory centers that have stopped all elective and non-urgent appointments and procedures.

All California practices should or have moved workers able to work remotely to work from home, increased personal protective requirements for healthcare workers, instituted mandatory screening of sick patients, and limited visitors.

CalDerm is here to continue to support our membership. We have compiled a list of resources below that may be of benefit while we all navigate office closures, potential employee furloughs or lay-offs, as well as institute teledermatology care for our patients, including those on iPledge and biologics. Be on the look out for a follow-up message on an upcoming coding Q&A session specifically for teledermatology questions, hosted by CalDerm.

Managing your practice through the Coronavirus Outbreak

TeleDermatology Quick Reference Coding Guide

California Employment Development Department COVID-19 Resources for Employers

The CalDerm Board of Directors and staff wish you and your family health and strength during this difficult time.

Sincerely,

Jacqueline Dolev, MD FAAD
CalDerm President