Importance of Reporting Your Symptoms

Dear patients:

We realize that during this unprecedented time, it is common to experience feelings of uncertainty about whether or not your treatment plan will continue as planned. At the Mass General Cancer Center, we want to remind you that we are here for you, no matter what, and that we are committed to your care and safety.

In order to safely care for you, it is critical that you notify us of any symptoms that may be consistent with COVID-19 (new or worsening fever, cough, sore throat, runny nose/nasal congestion, shortness of breath, muscle aches, or inability to smell) you may have before coming to the hospital. Knowing about any symptoms you may be experiencing will help us determine the most appropriate setting in which to treat you and will also help keep other patients, visitors and employees safe.

If you have an appointment and have experienced any of these symptoms, we will evaluate your symptoms prior to administering your scheduled therapy. You should receive a screening phone call from a nurse prior to your appointment. Please accurately report any symptoms you may be experiencing to them.

Your safety is our priority. Many additional safety measures, as recommended by public health authorities, have been implemented, including:

• All patients, visitors, and employees wear hospital-issued masks while on hospital premises.
• Modifications to our common spaces have been made to allow for physical distancing or when not possible, development of workflows to minimize density of patients, visitors, and employees.
• Employees are screened for symptoms each day prior to beginning work.
• Patients and visitors are screened for symptoms prior to arrival when scheduled and upon arrival regardless of pre-visit screening.
• Departments are working under specific infection control plans for evaluation and management of patients with suspected or confirmed COVID-19.
• Mass General is using tele-health and tele-work when appropriate to promote physical distancing.

Please know that your treatment teams are always ready to answer questions.