Recently someone from Lifespan reached out to me about a troubling 32% decline in the number of Rhode Island children being vaccinated this spring versus last, a red flag brought to their attention by KIDSNET.

As a childless 50 year old, I honestly had no idea what KIDSNET was, but I soon learned that it’s a completely confidential database that provides support to both parents or guardians and clinicians by keeping track of which preventive services (such as lead screenings or hearing tests) and immunizations kids and young adults up to age 19 have or haven’t had.

KIDSNET also helps the RI Department of Health spot any concerning trends - like THIS one, for example - that could negatively impact the well being of the youngsters in our state.

Don’t think I’m alone saying that I feel as though the current COVID crisis and fear of contracting the virus (have seen it called Covid phobia) are at the core of this double digit drop-off in families taking kids to appointments for vaccinations, check-ups, et cetera.

I get it, believe me I do, but skipping shots and regular check-ins with healthcare professionals, now or any time really, could lead to serious concerns and issues down the line.

With that in mind, thought I’d share some of the safety measures that Hasbro Children’s (Hospital) has in place right now to help protect those coming thru their doors for care, whether for a regular visit with a primary doctor or specialist or in the unfortunate event of an emergency, including:

• High touch and common surfaces are being cleaned and sanitized at a minimum of every 4 hours.

• Appointment schedules are being staggered to reduce the number of patients in waiting areas at any given time.

• They are pre-screening patients and parents or caregivers before they arrive for their appointments, and screening at the point of entry as well.

• All patients and staff are required to wear masks at all times.

• They are asking that children be accompanied by only a single caregiver please.

• In addition, telehealth visits continue, in certain cases, to be an option right now.

I truly hope you’ll be reassured by these enhanced precautions.

Going to the dr. isn’t what I’d ever call fun (hey, I’m 5-0 and still stress over any and every appointment from yearly check-ups to teeth cleanings!), but it can help all of us, kiddos included, stay ahead of any potential issues or problems and live our very best lives.

Please take care.