Another milestone has been reached recently with over 1200 robotic procedures. It can be a great option for some, but not for everyone. We can explain if or how it may be an option for you.

We have removed the option for telemedicine consults and virtual visits. It served a purpose during the pandemic, but it is not a very effective tool for surgical issues where hands-on care is critical. It was no longer useful for our office and will no longer be used.

Following the announcement by Gov. Abbott a few months ago, we have gone to masks optional in the office for patients and visitors. Dr. Parker and his staff (unfortunately) contracted Covid-19 in October 2020 and (fortunately) recovered uneventfully. We have also been fully vaccinated since then. You may still wear a mask if you are more uncomfortable, but it is not required. Thank goodness!

While some restrictions are still in place due to the pandemic, elective (i.e., non-emergent) surgical procedures have resumed for COVID negative patients. The hospital or surgery center may still have limitations on the number of visitors, but they are now at least allowing one visitor to stay with the patient.

We are back to seeing patients full time in the office again. As of now, the Texas Medical Board still REQUIRES all patients to wear a mask when entering the office. We do not yet know when this restriction will be lifted.

With everyone being limited in their daily activities, it makes it harder to get to a doctor's office. In an effort to ease the hassle, we will be implementing telemedicine services soon. This will give some patients the option of having a video conference with Dr. Parker when appropriate.

This should help avoid the need to drive to the office for a simple, quick visit or consult.

Of course, it is the nature of a surgical practice that I need to lay my hands on you and palpate the area of concern to make a diagnosis or recommendations. Nevertheless, we hope this will be of benefit to our patients.