MEMO

To:         Residents and Families
From:    Charlie Wilson, Senior Vice President
Date:      March 14, 2020
Re:         Buckner Updated Visitor Policy

Based on the most recent recommendations from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) and new visitor restriction directives from Texas Governor Abbott, who has declared a State of Emergency, Buckner communities are implementing additional precautions including: 

• Restricting all visitors except for limited exceptions, such as end-of-life visitations after proper screenings
• Restricting all volunteers and nonessential healthcare professionals, including nonessential healthcare personnel (e.g., barbers)
• Canceling all group activities and communal dining in healthcare licensed areas (e.g., Assisted Living, Skilled Nursing)
• Implementing active screening of residents and healthcare professionals for fever and respiratory symptoms

Because senior adults appear to be the population most vulnerable to the virus, we are monitoring the COVID-19 situation through information, calls and webinars provided regularly by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). The BRS team is reinforcing health readiness by:

• Activating its Emergency Preparedness and Operations teams at each of the six campuses and holding regular conference calls to discuss the health status of each community
• Coordinating with local government agencies, first responders and health care facilities in case emergency response for residents or associates is necessary
• Regularly reviewing community emergency preparedness processes and re-educating associates for BRS infection control protocol, inventorying supplies, and preparing employees through information and education
• Discussing the COVID-19 situation status and risk mitigation tips and suggestions at resident town hall meetings
• Directing staff exhibiting signs of sickness to stay home
• Conducting additional health screenings for new residents and healthcare admissions 
• Monitoring associate attendance 
• Developing methods and opportunities to reduce stress and help families stay connected during this period

Additional Information
Visit https://www.buckner.org/coronavirus-blog for the most up-to-date information about preventing the spread of germs and viruses and other relevant tips and information about the coronavirus. For additional questions and concerns please contact the Executive Director at your community.