Covid-19: Our ongoing response
At Centers Health Care, we have instituted a series of proactive policies to safeguard the health and safety of our patients, residents and staff. Their wellbeing is—and always has been—our priority. All of these policies are based on recommendations from the Department of Health (DOH) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Visitation has been suspended. In order to curtail the spread of Covid-19 and protect the safety of our residents and staff, entry into our facility is restricted to essential personnel.
We are encouraging virtual visits. Due to the restricted access, we have implemented a process of helping residents reach out to family and loved ones through FaceTime, Skype, WhatsApp and other social media platforms.
Health screening. Before entering the facility, everyone, including the staff, is screened for possible symptoms and potential exposure to the disease in order to prevent contact with residents and staff. Risk factors we are screening for include:
- Contact within the prior 14 days with any individual suspected of Covid-19 infection
- Fever or respiratory illness, shortness of breath, sore throat, nausea, vomiting or diarrhea
- Travel within the prior 14 days to high-risk areas as defined by the CDC
Proper Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is required. We practice social distancing in our facility, maintaining a six-foot separation between all residents. We are well-stocked with PPE and our staff is instructed in their proper use.
Increased cleaning. While our facility has always maintained a policy of regular, thorough cleaning, we have now increased the frequency of disinfecting common areas and surfaces—often multiple times a day.
We understand that some of these policies may be challenging for residents, their families and loved ones, as well as the staff. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation during this difficult time as we do all we can to protect those in our care. Please check back for regular updates.
We have submitted, and will continue to submit, detailed information to the DOH in accordance with its reporting requirements and encourages all of its Resident’s family members to reach out to our social work staff to facilitate calls and/or virtual visits with their loves ones to provide their support during this critical time.
We want to assure you that we continue to take the safety, health, and welfare of your loved one very seriously. We will continue to provide services, treatments, and interventions as outlined in their plan of care. We will continue to follow all federal, state, and local guidelines for infection control policies and procedures. You can always reach out to the Administrator, our Director of Nursing, or our Director of Social Work, should you have any questions.
