COVID-19 Frequently Asked Questions

Updated 5/14/2020 

Below are answers to some common questions related to COVID-19 (Coronavirus). Please be aware that evolving public health guidelines related to COVID-19 may necessitate ongoing modifications to the following information. Doylestown Health remains attentive to changes and flexible to the needs and safety of patients, community and staff.

Read the most up-to-date information about Doylestown Health's COVID-19 response.

• How can I protect myself?

  The CDC recommends that you take the usual precautions for avoiding respiratory viruses, including the seasonal flu:

  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 15-20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
  • Cover your mouth and nose with a cloth face cover around others.
  • Cover your mouth and nose with your elbow or a tissue when you cough or sneeze.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth, especially with unclean hands.
  • Avoid close contact with anyone who is sick.
  • Clean surfaces you often touch.
  • Stay home from work, school and public areas if you're sick.
  • Standard household cleansers and wipes are effective in cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched objects and surfaces.

• What should I do if I experience COVID-19 symptoms?

  If you develop a fever, cough or shortness of breath, contact your primary care provider to determine if you should first be screened for COVID-19. Symptoms are similar for other conditions, such as seasonal flu.

• How long does it take for symptoms of the COVID-19 to appear?

  The CDC believes that symptoms of COVID-19 may appear in as few as two days, or as long as 14 days after exposure. To be cautious, public health authorities are requiring an isolation period of 14 days for people returning from high-risk areas.

• How can I be tested for COVID-19?

  For the most up-to-date information on COVID-19 testing, please visit our Coronavirus Information page. 

  Learn more about COVID-19 Testing

• What if I don't have a Primary Care Provider?

  Please visit the Find a Doctor section of our website for a complete listing of Doylestown Health Medical Staff primary care providers. You may also call the Bucks County Department of Health at 215-345-3318 to ask about screening options.

  Doylestown Health Medical Staff providers are now offering telehealth primary care and specialty appointments, bringing you safe, effective healthcare in the comfort of your home.

  Learn more about Telehealth services

• Does the flu shot help prevent COVID-19?

  A vaccine for this coronavirus is not available at this time. The seasonal flu vaccine does not prevent the coronavirus; however, it does prevent the seasonal flu, which remains a threat to our community health.

• How is COVID-19 treated?

  There is currently no FDA approved medication for COVID-19. Many people have mild symptoms and should receive supportive care at home such as rest, fluids and fever control.

• Can I visit a non-COVID-19 related patient at Doylestown Hospital?

  In light of COVID-19, Doylestown Hospital has implemented a RESTRICTED visitor policy. For more information on restrictions, including limited entry points to the hospital, please visit Visiting Hours.

• Should I postpone treatments or procedures?

  Speak to your physician about the risks and benefits of maintaining your healthcare appointments. For some patients, missing an appointment or postponing a procedure may be detrimental. Please follow your physician’s discretion.

  Outpatient Services Now Open

  Your health and well-being is our highest priority. That is why we have set high standards for safety and are taking every precaution possible as we welcome you back for Outpatient services at Doylestown Hospital and The Health & Wellness Center in Warrington.

  Learn more about Outpatient Services

  Telehealth Appointments Available

  Doylestown Health Medical Staff providers are now offering telehealth primary care and specialty appointments, bringing you safe, effective healthcare in the comfort of your home.

  Learn more about Telehealth services

• Are Telehealth appointments available?

  Doylestown Health Medical Staff providers are now offering telehealth appointments, bringing you safe, effective healthcare in the comfort of your home. Telehealth is the safest option for managing routine healthcare and addressing the challenges of COVID-19, because you don't have to leave your house to see a doctor.

  Learn more about Telehealth

• What is Doylestown Health doing to keep patients safe?

  Your health and well-being is our highest priority. That is why we have set high standards for safety and are taking every precaution possible. For your safety, you will notice changes to way we serve you.

  Learn More

• What precautions are being taken at the Pine Run Retirement Community?

  Protecting our most vulnerable patients is our highest priority. Stay up-to-date about visiting restrictions and other preventive measures occurring at Pine Run Community.

  Pine Run Coronavirus Response

• Can I Donate Supplies or Goods to Doylestown Hospital?

  Doylestown Health is grateful for the many offers we are receiving to donate equipment or supply materials for the protection of our patients and associates. 

  To learn more or to submit your offer of donations of goods and supplies or direct contributions of funds, please visit Doylestown Health Foundation. Your kindness and generosity is much appreciated.

  Support Doylestown Health's Response to COVID-19

• Are Doylestown Health events canceled?

  In-person community education programs and support groups sponsored by Doylestown Health are canceled. Some classes will be held via webinar.

  The VIA Maternity Center is providing free online prenatal and childbirth education resources for expectant families.

  Register for a Virtual Class

• Where do I go if I have questions?

  Guidelines and recommendations from the Department of Health and CDC are updated regularly. Please visit these websites for the most recent information:

  • Pennsylvania Department of Health
  • Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

  You may also email questions to ContactDH@dh.org. We strive to answer any emails within 24 hours, but please expect a delay during times of high volume. In an emergency, call 9-1-1.