30 July 2020 

Dear Residents and Families and Friends 

I am writing to provide an update of the results from testing that occurred on Monday 27 July in response to a staff member at Lynch’s Bridge testing positive to COVID-19. 

I am very pleased to advise you that all resident COVID-19 tests have returned a negative result. However, as I write to you, we still have a staff member’s result pending. 

Testing for COVID-19 of residents is managed by the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) Public Health Unit, they organised the test for Monday. We have been receiving the results over the past 24 hours. This is longer than what Lynch’s Bridge previously experienced. We have noticed that over the last couple of weeks test results are taking up 3-4 days to come through from the date of the test. 

Waiting for test results can cause some anxiety. Please be assured that we will get results to you as quickly as possible and that we will call you immediately if there is any change to your family members health status. 

DHHS has advised us that residents need to remain in their rooms and staff will continue to use Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) until they are satisfied that Lynch’s Bridge is fully cleared from COVID-19. We will advise you when we are given this notice and residents will then be able to return to normal activities and movement within the home. 

If you have an enquiry or concern about your family member, please call Lynch’s Bridge on 9376 2111 or use the email address covid19questions@dgas.org.au previously provided to raise any questions, comments or concerns related to COVID-19. 

In addition to the support Doutta Galla staff can provide you, we have spoken to Elder Rights Advocacy and they are happy to provide additional support to family members. You can contact them on 1800 171 866 for COVID-19 information and support. This phone line is open Monday to Friday 8.30am-6pm. 

We are also working with Elder Rights Advocacy to provide emotional support for residents. 

We will keep in touch with the nominated resident representative on a regular basis to inform you of any changes to the situation. 

Thankyou once again for your support during this challenging time. 

Yours sincerely, 

Vanda Iaconese
CEO