Guidance Update for Visitors

January 7^th, 2022

 

Dear Family, Friends and Visitors,

 

We are writing to inform you of the most recent California State Public Health Order and California Department of Public Health Guidance for Visitors in Long Term Care Settings.

Since Thanksgiving, the statewide seven-day average case rate has increased by 410% thus increasing the Covid-19 hospitalization rate by 63%. In addition, the emergence of the Omicron variant cases increased by approximately 70% nationally, further emphasizing the importance of vaccinations, boosters, and all preventive efforts needed against Covid-19.

The California Department of Public Health announced new requirements for Visitors in Long Term Care Settings (State Public Health Office Order dated December 31, 2021). Below are the following updates for reference:

1. 1. For indoor visits: only fully vaccinated visitors are allowed (must have all recommended doses including booster) and must also provide evidence of negative SARS-Covid-2 Antigen test within one day (24 hours) of visit or within two days (48 hours) of visit for PCR test.
   2. For outdoor visits: Visitors that do not meet the above requirements (unvaccinated or partially vaccinated and those that have not received a booster) must provide evidence of negative SARS-Covid-2 Antigen test within one day (24 hours) of visit or within two days (48 hours) of visit for PCR test.
   3. All visitors may use either PCR testing or Antigen testing that have Emergency Authorization by the US Food and Drug Administration.
   4. All visitors must:
      1. Wear a well-fitting face mask (a surgical mask, or a respirator is recommended) at all times.
      2. Wear any other personal protective equipment (PPE) while in the patient’s or resident’s room that facility personnel deem appropriate.
      3. Physically distance from facility personnel and other patients/residents/visitors that are not part of their group at all times
      4. Visitors (while inside the facility) must remain in designated area

The facility has a limited amount of testing kits available for use, we must utilize these test kits for residents and staff members:

1. 1. As such, we will not be able to provide testing kits for you.
   2. If you are utilizing an antigen testing kit please self-administer the test at the facility in front of a staff member so that we can validate your positivity status.
   3. Unfortunately, self-tests that are administered without validation from facility staff can’t be utilized for entry into the facility.

This facility remains committed to the health and safety of our residents, families, visitors and staff. We thank you for your continued support and understanding during these challenging times.

 

Sincerely,

Summerfield Management