As of 07/24/2020, we have no known cases of COVID-19 in our care center. You continue to be a key partner in keeping our residents and staff safe. We have made incredible progress together in slowing the spread of the virus, but the threat is still very real and we have seen the devastating impact this virus has on our industry. We stand with Governor Walz and ask you to continue to partner with us in wearing a face mask when unable to social distance. This face mask is a simple and effective way we can protect our dedicated staff and those who are most at-risk for this virus.
The COVID Pandemic has created new employment opportunities in our care center for people wanting to help our most at-risk population combat this virus. If you or someone you know may be interested in working side by side with us as we truly make a difference in the lives of our residents, call Drew at 218-302-6999 or visit www.jobswithus.org for more information.
One of the most difficult things about COVID-19 for our residents has been the prolonged separation from families and loved ones. We recognize the critical role family members and other outside caregivers, such as friends, volunteers, private personal caregivers, often have in the care and support of our residents.
Realizing both the potential benefits of the Minnesota Department of Health’s (MDH) new Essential Caregiver program and risks of allowing additional essential caregivers into the building, we are carefully considering this guidance as well as other criteria such as the current status of COVID-19 in our setting and local communities and the overall health and safety of all who live and work here. At a briefing by Governor Walz this week, it was shared that 24% of Minnesota’s 368 nursing homes currently have an outbreak, which is defined by MDH as having at least one case. In the 1,692 Minnesota assisted living settings, only 8% currently have an outbreak. We ask for your patience as we review this data and MDH’s guidance and determine our next steps in terms of how it aligns with our infection control practices and diligent commitment we have to combat this virus.
Please know that it is our policy to continually evaluate the presence of positive COVID-19 cases in our communities and nearby counties and recognize the desire and need of our residents and their loved ones to be connected in a more meaningful way. We are carefully considering our options, evaluating our policies and protocols and sharing updated information with you as frequent as possible. In the meantime, please reach out to Brittany, Administrator at 18-302-6988 or bloosbrock@sfhs.org if you have any questions.