Care homes have been moved to Phase 3 of visiting and activities, Minister of Health Kim Wilson confirmed.
Speaking at last night’s [June 29] press conference, Minister of Health Kim Wilson said, “I am pleased to report that our care homes have now moved into Phase 3 of visiting and activities. This move allows increased engagement with care home residents while mitigating risks tied to our current national Covid-19 status.
“More specifically, indoor onsite, as well as off-site visiting, are now authorised. However, you must schedule your visits to enable the home to ensure appropriate space and support as required, so please ensure you call in advance and coordinate with the care home. In addition, appropriate PPE and physical distancing must be maintained during visits and off-site activities considering the risks to the resident, such as immunisation status or the location and type of off-site activity.
“Other changes to care home restrictions include enabling direct care staff in care homes to now work onsite at one other healthcare location based on being immunised or participating in a 3-day testing regime. The purpose of easing the cross-site work restriction is to facilitate care homes increasing their staffing compliment, especially in light of the phase 3 changes.
“We move slowly and cautiously with easing restrictions in care homes due to the impact Covid-19 can and has had in these settings and how quickly our status can potentially change due to variants. Administrators will be communicating with residents, families and staff regarding the various changes. The Care home Covid-19 Guidance, version 2 is being updated and will be republished shortly.”
