I want to take a moment to share with you some important information concerning the steps that we, at Community Hospice & Palliative Care, are taking to ensure the well-being of our patients, families, and employees. I can assure you that we are taking immediate and definitive steps like so many other health care organizations based upon the guidance we are receiving from federal, state and local governmental agencies and other regulatory organizations.
I am sure that you have noticed that all health care organizations are screening patients, visitors, and employees before allowing them to enter their facilities. This change was made by order of the Florida Governor, Ron DeSantis. Community Hospice is following this direction at all of our facilities including our hospice inpatient facilities. You can be assured that if your loved one is in one of our inpatient facilities that processes are in place to ensure that all visitors and employees have been screened using the criteria given by the Governor. This includes screening for international travel, respiratory symptoms and a fever at the entrance of our units.
I also want you to know that we are coordinating with all of the facilities where our patients reside to ensure that we are following their screening processes and that our clinical teams will be able to continue to provide in-person visits and continued care for your loved one. If your loved one is residing in a long term care facility, hospital or assisted living facility you should check with them to understand their specific visitation restrictions. It is important to note that all guidance provided at present includes some acknowledgment of the need to allow visitation at the end of life. Please talk directly with your care team if you encounter difficulty so that we can assist you with access.
I know that we are facing unprecedented challenges with this pandemic, but I am also confident that we will pull together to keep each other safe and strong until we all return to a sense of normalcy. Please know that we are being diligent in our efforts and appreciate the trust you have placed in us as we care for your loved one. Together we are Community!
Sincerely,
Phillip Ward,
Chief Operating Officer
Community Hospice & Palliative Care