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 during this global pandemic. I am sure we are all coming to terms with the fact that we are living in the middle of an unprecedented health care crisis that is impacting every area of our lives. I want to assure you that our teams are taking immediate and definitive steps like so many other health care organizations in response to the guidance we are receiving from federal, state and local governmental agencies and other regulatory organizations.

Our highest priority is the safety and well-being of our patients, their families, and our employees and volunteers. That is why we have activated our Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan and have a Critical Response Team that is meeting at least daily in order to respond to the changing situation in our community. Here are a couple of things that you should know:

  • We are screening all of our employees and volunteers for fever, respiratory symptoms, international travel and contact with individuals who have been exposed to the COVID-19 virus.
  • Anyone not passing our screening has been isolated from work for a minimum of 14 days as we monitor for symptoms.
  • We are performing similar screening for all visitors to any of our locations including our inpatient facilities and blocking access to anyone who does not pass these criteria.

I am sure that you have noticed that all other health care organizations are performing similar screening for visitors before allowing them access to their facilities including some facilities that are no longer allowing visitors. It is important to note that all guidance provided at present include some acknowledgment of the need to allow visitation at the end of life.

  • You have had close contact (within 6 feet) with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19;
  • You have traveled internationally within the last 14 days either by plane or cruise;
  • You have a fever (greater than 100.4) accompanied by a cough or shortness of breath.

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.

Together we are Community!

Sincerely,

Phillip Ward,
Chief Operating Officer
Community Hospice & Palliative Care