What Should a DC Physician Do If They Suspect a COVID-19 Case?

Being a physician in the District in the 21st century means being on the front line of the most pressing public health issues in the world. In our small geographic boundaries, physicians help address issue found in every state all in one area. The issues are too lengthy to list on one webpage but physicians are on the front lines of addressing health issues for all District residents.

News, Statements, and Testimony on Health Equity Issues

25th Council session information coming soon.

What Should a DC Physician Do If They Suspect a COVID-19 Case?

Mar 3, 2020, 15:20 PM by MSDC Staff

Worried a patient is showing signs of COVID-19? Here is updated information on what you need to do as a physician.

As the number of cases related to coronavirus increase in the United States, DC physicians will have patients who present with flu-like symptoms. What do you, as a physician, do with your patients who you suspect may be infected with the coronavirus?

DC Health sends out health alerts to the email you used during the license renewal/application process. Health alerts will go to that address; if you need help determining that address or how to change it you can contact our office to assist.
If your patient shows symptoms consistent with the COVID-19 outbreak, you must initiate the testing process by contacting DC Health. If you do not contact the DC Health hotline, you cannot initiate the correct and appropriate testing process. You can call 202-576-1117 during business hours OR 844-493-2652 after business hours to speak with an expert.
Take a moment now to read DC Health's guidance so you know what steps to take if a person with symptoms presents to your practice. While the person on the DC Health hotline can walk you through the process outlined, it will save time and energy if you review the materials now. It also includes what forms may need to be completed for testing - read through those links as well to ensure you can swiftly complete them.

MSDC, DC Health, and every health organization in the District are working together to inform the public and health providers on the latest news on COVID-19. MSDC is confident that the District is ready for an outbreak and we are working with stakeholders to share information. If you have any questions, you can contact us at 202-466-1800 and DC Health at the numbers above or doh.epi@dc.gov.

You can also keep up-to-date on all the COVID-19 news you need to know at our Coronavirus Information page.

Sample of Health Equity Legislation MSDC Tracked

Student Access to Treatment Amendment Act (B23-467)

What does it say? The bill allows for the administration of medicinal marijuana in schools as well as allows students to bring sunscreen to schools and apply it without a prescription.

MSDC position: MSDC supports the language permitting sunscreen application in schools

Current status: A win for DC physicians and public health! The legislation passed the Council in February and was signed by the Mayor. Previous temporary and emergency legislation permitted students to use sunscreen at schools this school year already.

Electronic Medical Order for Scope of Treatment Registry Amendment Act (B23-261)

What does it say? The bill requires DC Health to establish an electronic Medical Order for Scope of Treatment registry (eMOST).

MSDC position: MSDC supports this legislation to more easily allow patients to make their treatment orders known.

Current status: A win for the physician community and our patients! The Council passed the bill in December and the Mayor signed it into law on January 16, 2020.

Healthy Beverage Choices Amendment Act (B23-495)

What does it say? The bill would implement a 1.5 cent per ounce tax on the distribution of "sugary" beverages. The money collected from the tax would establish a Healthy People, Healthy Places Open Spaces Grant Program.

MSDC position: MSDC sent a letter to Council Chair Mendelson asking for a hearing to discuss all of the issues around a beverage tax.

Current status: The bill was introduced October 8, 2019 and referred to the Committee on Business and Economic Development and the Committee of the Whole.