28 September 2020

Dear Residents, Families and Friends,

I am pleased to let you know that the testing conducted on Saturday did not return any new COVID-19 cases.  This is the third round of testing showing no further spread of the COVID-19 infection.

Eleven residents have now successfully received COVID-19 clearances from the Public Health Unit (PHU) with only three residents who are waiting to be cleared.  The process to achieve these clearances is underway and as previously advised, we have requested to be moved to the ‘enhanced surveillance’ phase.  To be granted ‘enhanced surveillance’ by the PHU, another round of testing will be required.  The date of this testing is still to be determined.  Enhanced surveillance will mean residents will be able to move around the Home, eat meals in the dining room and attend some activities.

Our Woornack staff affected by the virus are recovering well with some receiving clearances,  I am so pleased to hear that many staff are starting to return to work.  In the meantime, we continue to have additional staff working at the Home to ensure infection control is maintained and that the highest standard of personal and clinical care is provided.  We have engaged a Social Worker to support residents during this difficult time and we also have a physiotherapist and an allied health professional assisting residents in the Home.  Increased cleaning also remains in place.  Personal Protective Equipment continues to be a high priority for staff.  Our residents are remaining in their rooms where care and support is provided.

Doutta Galla’s resolve to do everything and to utilise every resource possible to address the spread of this virus at Woornack is unwavering.  The Aged Care Liaison Team from Western Health will continue to visit the Home daily to assess residents who may be unwell and, if anything changes, we will let you know as soon as possible.

We are looking forward to being able to provide additional opportunities for visits using the family hub.  These visits will be reviewed following the completion of the ‘enhanced surveillance’ phase.  In the meantime, please discuss visiting arrangements with the Home, as telephone and video conferencing will continue and of course we will support our residents and family visits for compassionate reasons.

If you or your family would like more support during this difficult time, please reach out to OPAN (Older Persons Advisory Network) on 1800 237 981. They are available 6am-10pm, 7 days a week. The other organisation that can assist you is Elder Rights Advocacy Victoria who can be reached on 1800 171 866 for support and advice.

Please contact the Home on 9312 0111 if you or your family member have any questions or concerns.  In addition, you are welcome to contact us via the email address covid19questions@dgas.org.au.  A reminder again to pass this letter onto other family members or refer them to the Doutta Galla website www.dgas.org.au/coronavirus-updates/.

Yours sincerely,

Vanda Iaconese

CEO