Distance learning as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic means kids are spending more and more time in front of a computer these days, a phenomenon that has parents wondering if all the extra screen time is harming kids’ eyes. Robert Bellinoff, MD, an ophthalmologist with Dignity Health Mercy Medical Group, explains how parents can help kids reduce negative effects of increased screen time, and monitor their children’s eye health.

There is a heightened sense of concern among people trying to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Many are trying to balance enjoying activities, running routine errands and more, while keeping themselves, their families and their communities safe. Sukhjinder Sandhu, MD, a family medicine physician with Dignity Health Mercy Medical Group in Rocklin, is sharing health safety tips and guidelines to keep yourself and your community safe during the pandemic.

The COVID-19 pandemic has presented new challenges in navigating parenthood. With schools across the country going online and limited social activities available for children, many parents are concerned about the potential long-term impacts of keeping their kids at home for long periods of time, and eventually returning to school. Dr. Marvi Montano-Ip, MD, a pediatrician with Dignity Health Mercy Medical Group, shared common concerns from patient families and addressed ways parents can navigate these unprecedented challenges.

Munir S. Janmohamed, MD, advanced heart failure cardiologist and medical director of the Mechanical Circulatory Support/Heart Failure Program with Mercy Medical Group, has experienced first-hand how virtual visits expand patient care. Through virtual visits, Dr. Janmohamed has been able to help patients manage chronic heart failure, improve their symptoms, and in some cases, prevent hospitalization.

Now more than ever, it is important to maintain regular health care, especially for those with underlying medical conditions. People with diabetes should continue prioritizing their routine health care during this time. Lack of adequate follow-up care could mean not realizing when diabetes is in poor control. This places them at a higher risk of developing a more advanced case of COVID-19, and can lead to other complications of diabetes.