Would not trust them to have the ability to place a band aid on a boo boo.. I have been denied medical care due to several preexisting medical conditions that make it impossible to wear a mask or face coverings. I during my 1st visit with the staff and Doctor explained this, the told me they had no issue with this. This past week after talking with the nurse at the Chattanooga Endoscopy center, where a procedure was scheduled. I was told I would not be permitted to enter the facility without a face covering . Mask mandate have been lifted. I did explain to them again, I can not due to several pre existing medical issues can not wear a mask. So I canx the appointment and contacted the scheduling nurse and ask for other options and about test results form blood work and ulta sound completed. The letter was insulting and the person drafting made it read as I am willfully defiant about not willing to wear a mask . No one listen to anything even the test results they read to me where off for previous labs. Trust in there medical abilities is gone. read more

Chattanooga Gastroenterology - this was written with out including the fact I have a preexisting medical condition that I am unable to cover my face and mask. - Gastroenterologist Near Me - Chattanooga, Tennessee

For the patient who complained about having to mask. There are extremely rare instances of when you would not be able to wear a mask. For instance, during an active asthma attack or if you were incapacitated somehow such as being unconscious. Otherwise, it is suggested that asthmatics and others with lung conditions, especially emphysema, should wear masks. They don't compromise your breathing or hurt your lungs. They protect those around you. You also have to have a well documented disability to get out of wearing a mask. You never mentioned your actual disability so I am doubtful you actually have one other than a psychiatric issue maybe? I used to have patients, usually smokers or former smokers, who would get panicky with an oxygen mask saying they couldn't breath. It was all in their mind which was evidenced by their Oxygen Sats. Mask on, oxygen 98%. Mask off, oxygen 84-85%. Perhaps taking an antianxiety agent before going to a doctors office would help? Most people wear them improperly under their nose or so loose that air travels freely from all sides anyway. They don't give a toot about others. In any case, here is a good article to read. Meanwhile, your letter has made me like this office already. Their letter was professional and not offensive to me at all. It was simply honest and to the point. May have to call them today for an appointment. Thanks for the referral. https://www.cnbc.com/2020/08/07/what-are-medical-reasons-for-not-wearing-a-mask.html read more