Post by Chris Fournier on Mar 27, 2020 10:32:01 GMT -8
"What actions are you taking, or plan to take, to support clients who are infected with COVID19 and
those who are secluded (from possible exposure, or known infection)?"
Here is a quick summary of survey responses related to this topic (emphasis added by me):
- Shop for consumer / deliver food even though it is a nonbillable activity, using meals on wheels food boxes even of not otherwise eligible for meals, payee going to cash system, contacting consumers PCP for directions.
- Problem solving meeting basic needs in coordination with community partners
- In the event of infection or exposure, increase phone contact. Utilize PPE for necessary visits (medication, injections, etc).
- Helping coordinate MD apps, calling MD on their behalf
- Provide supplies and detailed instructions on how to quarantine and ensure they have access to basic necessities (ie.. food)
- We will limit face-to-face contacts to the extent possible. Medications, food, and other necessary medical supplies will be provided, so that the client has a sufficient supply at home. If clients are on injectable medications, it will be explored with approval from the psychiatrist whether they could be changed temporarily to oral meds.
- Will adapt as situation presents including using telephone calls, texting if needed and medication 'drop offs' vs face to face
- Telephone calls Natural Supports
- Asking everyone to contact us first for symptoms review rather than present at ED or clinic.
- Will assist in calling their PCP or our internal Med on call for advice and guidance. Will assist them in getting what they need. Will change meds to disposable envelopes. Will check in regularly to assess symptoms via phone. Will assist if they are in need of higher level of care and use local protocols for getting this person to the doctor or hospital
- Buying canned goods/ care package materials to help encourage clients to self isolate in their home, by providing resources for same. Difficult for a person on a low income to stock up for a 14 day quarantine
- I’ve reviewed what we would need in terms of PPE and training with our administration. PPE is unlikely to be available. Discussed with our nurses the need for them to consider if they’d be willing to continue to serve if the necessary equipment is unavailable. High risk or sick employees need to consider the risks in detail. Recommended that any services in the community after a complete shut down be voluntary, not mandatory due to some employees needing to stay home with children out of school. How to minimize contact with individuals suspected of being infected or showing symptoms. Meeting clients outside of the home if possible. Utilizing our psychiatrists from their own homes by phone. Plan with our in house pharmacy to remain working to continue medication supply and access. They work in a contained environment so can dispense medication without much person to person contact.
- We will plan to continue phone contact with clients and coordinate with natural supports.
- We haven't developed a plan for this.
- Utilize PPE as available to provide the mental health, substance use and physical health assessment and education needed to return to wellness. If symptoms worsen, connect them with appropriate emergency care.
- Advocacy, connection to resources, guidance on how to collaborate with treatment providers to get needs met, and working with collaterals for needed supplies and other support.