Dear patients and friends,
A few updates are in order. Here in the office, we continue to be open for the most part, though we are doing most visits VIRTUALLY when possible. Call and discuss with one of the office staff if you feel you need to be seen in the office - Dr. Biemer or Julia Jones, CNP will review. If you do come into the office we request that you bring a maximum of one additional adult when necessary, or come alone if possible. This will be our policy through at least February and likely through the Spring of 2021. We hope you understand we are trying to protect our patients as well as staff. We've had a few "close calls" with patients in our office and exposing staff to Covid, though thus far none of our office staff have been sick with the virus. If you follow the Oregon Health Authority online you know the virus is very prevalent in our communities, and avoiding infection still will require vigilance, likely until at least summer of 2021. There is obviously a lot of information coming out about vaccines. The Moderna and Pfizer vaccines appear to have fairly equivalent activity in preventing infection, and likely similar safety profiles. I (Dr. Biemer) am considered "medium risk," and will certainly take the vaccine when it is offered. Read on below for more information. I expect now to be sending you fairly regular updates regarding vaccine programs and availability- PLEASE try to be patient! We have high hopes for successful vaccination and return to some semblance of normal by mid 2021. With that in mind, we wish you a wonderful and healthy holiday season and a Happy New Year! Sincerely, Dr. Biemer, Julia Jones and the whole office crew | 
