COVID-19 Update

To All Residents, Family and Friends,

In this Update!

• No Visitor Policy
• ANZAC Day
• Connecting Residents with Family and Friends
• Increased Safety Measures
• Mandatory flu vaccinations

No Visitor Policy

Columbia implemented a “No Visitor Policy” on Wednesday March 25 and are pleased to confirm we have had NO cases of COVID-19 to date.  We are focused on minimizing the risk to those in our care as well as our staff and based on the latest advice from the health authorities restricting access is our best defence.  We acknowledge how hard this is for our Residents, their family and friends.

Some statistics for us all to keep in mind:

• COVID-19 is 2-4 times more contagious than the flu.
• 80% of people who will contract COVID-19 will not get very sick.
• Highest at-risk group is those aged over 80 with chronic disease.

The Columbia Executive continue to review and have directed the No Visitor Policy will remain.

ANZAC Day

Preparations have already begun across all facilities to commemorate ANZAC Day.  We encourage families to send in cards or letters, email photographs or messages to Residents as we look to mark this very special occasion in the calendar. Care packages can also be sent directly to Residents.  All packages must be fully labelled and can either be posted or dropped off only during business hours but must be left outside – family are to  ring and let the facility know to collect. STAFF ARE UNABLE TO STAND OUTSIDE AND TALK TO FAMILY MEMBERS.

Connecting Residents with Family and Friends

Staff at all facilities have been connecting Residents with family and friends through iPads, tablets and smart phones for video calls and regular phone calls.  These calls have been facilitated via Facetime, WhatsApp, Skype or Zoom. Each facility has specific dial in details – if you have been unable to connect please email us, let us know the Resident and Facility you are looking to connect with and your request will be forwarded.

Increased Safety Measures

Along with the No Visitor Policy the Columbia Executive have also implemented the following:-

• All independent third party services have now ceased – only approved Columbia Suppliers are now permitted onsite.
• All staff are required to have a flu vaccination by 1 May – no exceptions.
• Preferred Suppliers of both clinical and non-clinical services have been advised of increased standards to gain entry to each facility.
• Social leave for Residents during this time will NOT be approved as per the NSW Health Act.
• Daily temperature monitoring

Mandatory flu vaccinations

Reminder –  from 1 May 2020, all staff and visitors must have been vaccinated against seasonal influenza to enter an aged care facility. To meet the Federal Government’s audit for this directive we will be seeking appropriate evidence of immunization status from everyone wishing to visit Residents.

Appropriate evidence may be a statement or record from a health practitioner; or an immunization history statement available from Medicare online or the Express Plus Medicare mobile app.