April 20, 2020
Dear Families,
I’m writing to provide an update on the status of the individuals in our care at Anthony John IRA. Unfortunately, two additional individuals who we support at the Anthony John IRA have tested positive for COVID-19. Two individuals who have tested positive are quarantined on the lower level of the Anthony John IRA. One individual has been quarantined in his room. Two individuals tested negative and have been moved to a hotel. And another individual tested negative with the recommendations from his parent to remain quarantined in his room. One individual refused to be tested (precautionary guidelines are in place and he is being monitored).
Again, following proper protocol, the Department of Health (DOH), Office for People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) and local health authorities were notified immediately. We are continuing every effort to keep individuals and staff safe.
This is hard news to share. As you know, the coronavirus health crisis is impacting everyone – from our community to all nations worldwide. We assure you, however, that our team continues to take extreme measures to protect your family member. In my last letter (April 16), I outlined Greystone’s strict protocols (beyond the recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) for infection control. Recent measures include:
- Implementing entry station at Anthony John IRA to include Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) distribution for staff, enhanced electronic monitoring of symptoms and temperatures and procedure for sanitizing hands, cell phone and footwear at the doorway
- A plastic shield has been installed to separate the lower level from the upstairs
- Extensively cleaning and disinfecting of the Anthony John IRA by a professional company
- Staggering mealtimes to allow for social distancing among residents and staff
- Implemented food delivery service for all Greystone IRAs
- Facilitating additional trainings for clinical staff, including CDC, DOH and OPWDD webinars
- Staff deployed to only one IRA each to minimize exposure
- Prevention training Part 1 and Part 2
- Mandating staff who are experiencing any symptoms of illness (i.e., cough, runny nose, headache, fever, body aches) to stay home and self-quarantine for a minimum of 7 days and 72
- Taking temperatures of all Greystone-supported individuals and staff daily
- Requiring all support staff to wear masks while on shift
- Holding daily Infection Control Committee meetings (7 days per week)
- PPE and Mask handling training
- Continued individual and staff testing
We will continue to communicate as we have more news to share. Please, do not hesitate to reach out to me via email at
[email protected]
or my cell (845) 505-0354 with any questions and concerns.
Stay healthy and safe,
