Dear Resident and Family Members,

COVID-19 Update for Residents and Families at Calvary Cessnock

I am writing to inform you that no additional residents have tested positive for COVID-19 at Calvary Cessnock over the weekend since our last communication to you. The positive residents remain in isolation and are receiving care in their rooms, and we are keeping their families informed directly.

In line with Public Health Unit advice, a round of testing will be conducted today in Elrington and Neath Lodges, and we will inform you of the results once we receive them. Provided there are no additional positive cases found, Neath Lodge residents will be fully de-isolated and able to move freely around the home on Wednesday 04 May 2022.

Calvary’s Position Statement on Visiting in Aged Care allows visits for residents in all circumstances, including when a home is experiencing an outbreak and is in lockdown. There are, however, specific requirements to help keep our residents, their visitors and our staff as safe as possible. Please see below:

Information for all visitors during an outbreak

• With the exception of Neath and Elrington Lodges, there is no limit to the number of visitors allowed per resident, per day at Calvary Cessnock.
• All visits must be booked in advance. Please contact 4993 9000 during regular business hours (8.30am-5.00pm) to make your booking.
• There are two (2) periods for arriving visitors – 11.00am to 2.00pm; and from 3.15pm to 5.00pm. The set time periods relate to visitors’ arrival on site. Once inside, visitors may stay longer.
• Visitors will be required to complete screening requirements prior to entry and wear appropriate PPE (including surgical mask and shield) whilst visiting. PPE is provided by Calvary. Staff will assist you as needed.
• Visitors will be required to have a rapid antigen test (RAT test) before entering the home. This takes time, and we ask for your patience as we manage this important screening process.
• Visitation exceptions may be made for residents receiving end of life care, residents who may be experiencing distress, or where a special care and support role is provided. Please speak with the home manager to discuss arrangements.

Visitation to Neath and Elrington Lodges

• Visitation to Elrington and Neath Lodges is limited to one fully vaccinated visitor per resident, per day.
• All visits must be booked in advance. Please contact 4993 9000 during regular business hours (8.30am-5pm) to make your booking

We continue to liaise closely with Public Health Unit officials, who will make the decision about whether and when it is safe to remove the current visitation restrictions. We anticipate our next communication to you will be before the end of the week.

Thank you for your continued understanding and patience at this time.
Sincerely,                          

Sandeep Kandel,

General Manager Aged Care