COVID-19: Staying safe and healthy now

Our world may look different as a result of COVID-19, but some things haven’t changed: the importance of primary care and Oak Street Health’s commitment to older adults. We are here for you, always. Our telehealth appointments over video and telephone keep you healthy and safe.

We are available 24/7 to talk to you about your health, answer any questions and help you take the first step to becoming an Oak Street Health patient.

(844) 871-5651

Common questions

  • Is Oak Street Health still open? Are you accepting new patients?

    Yes, we are accepting new patients. As the government currently instructs seniors to stay at home, we’re conducting telehealth visits over the phone and through video in order to provide high-quality primary care while keeping our communities safe. Our centers remain open only for in-person visits that are deemed highly medically-necessary.

  • Am I at risk?

    Yes, older adults and people with underlying chronic medical conditions including heart conditions, respiratory diseases and diabetes, are at higher risk.

  • How do I protect myself?

    The most important thing you can do right now to protect yourself and help stop the spread of the coronavirus, based on guidance from the government and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), is to stay at home. You should also wash your hands frequently with soap and water or use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. This is especially important for seniors, as prevention is our best treatment.

  • What are the symptoms?

    Symptoms of coronavirus include fever, cough and shortness of breath. According to the CDC, additional symptoms include: chills, repeated shaking with chills, muscle pain, headache, sore throat, and loss of taste or smell.

  • How does COVID-19 spread?

    The virus is passed along like a common cold or the flu, which means through coughing, sneezing or activities like handshakes. It can also be spread by touching a surface (like a door knob, table or keyboard, for example) with the virus on it, and then touching your eyes, nose or mouth before washing your hands. The virus can live on a surface for up to 48 hours. Learn how to stay safe and healthy from COVID-19

  • I use a nebulizer machine. Is it safe to use at home?

    If you use a nebulizer machine at home, you can continue using it, but you must be in a room by yourself with the doors and windows closed to protect others in your home. You may also continue to use your inhaler normally.

    Call us at (844) 871‑5651 if you have any questions.

  • What else can I do to prepare?

    It’s important to have access to all of your current medications. You should also stock up on common household items like toilet paper and hand soap, and frozen or shelf-stable food such as frozen vegetables, pasta and beans.

  • What should I do if I’m not feeling well?

    Please call us at (844) 871‑5651, day or night and let us know the symptoms you have. We will determine next steps to best care for you.