Reminiscing -- Nothing About The Bakken -- May 26, 2020

Most readers know that I was an Air Force pediatrician in a previous life -- a long, long time ago, in a far away place. In addition, I was the commander (CEO) of one overseas clinic; one hospital near a combat zone (no, not Chicago); and, the flagship hospital of the Air Force's combat command.

A reader asked me, based on that experience I suppose, a question regarding Wuhan flu.

Apparently her children have an upcoming appointment with their pediatrician. Apparently access to corona virus testing is "easily" accessible in the reader's area. There are two tests:

• a test for "active disease"; and, 
• a test for "history of disease."

For now, I will refer to the first test as the "active disease" test and the second test as the "follow up serology" test.

The reader asked whether she should have her children tested (she included some additional background which might affect one's decision).

My unedited, not-rready-for-prime-time reply:

1. I don't know how easy it is to access testing in Texas. But something suggests it is not as easy as folks suggest: there are no public service announcements (PSAs) on television that I've seen; there are no billboards that I've seen; there are no bulletins in my apartment complex; there are no bulletins in the grocery stores; there are no bulletins at the day care center; all of which suggest to me, a lot of political talk that tests are easily available but not necessarily accurate. I don't consider getting a doctor's appointment in this state "easy." It's quite difficult to say the least. Most physicians in our area do not accept Medicare.

2. There seems to be no sense to get tested for active disease unless there's an indication. If it's negative, and the follow-up serology test is negative, what does one do? Keep getting the active COVID test every week?

3. The antibody test makes sense. But again, if negative, how often does one test? Monthly?

4. Because the tests are apparently easily available in your area, I would get both tests for the boys. The question / answer falls into this category: will you sleep better at night knowing you at least got them tested even if not indicated? Yes, you will (sleep better at night). And I'm not being sarcastic or mean. If you don't take advantage of the opportunity, it will bug you until you finally do.

5. Now my snide remark, LOL: I'm sleeping comfortably each night not knowing my status. Sorry. I wouldn't be me if I didn't include a snarky comment. I have no idea how my wife puts up with me. Social distancing works great for the two of us. LOL.

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Some Reminiscing

 Pending

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What You Want Me To Do?

Baby What You Want Me To Do, Chris Isaak
Again, what a pleasant surprise.