March 12, 2020 – In an effort to protect the health and safety of
residents from the spread of infectious diseases, Southeast Georgia Health
System has implemented visitor restrictions at their
Senior Care Centers in Brunswick and St. Marys, Georgia. Although these restrictions prevent
family and friends from physically visiting their loved ones, protecting
our residents’ health and safety is our top priority. Immediate
family will not be restricted from visiting loved ones who are critically
ill or in other special circumstances such as a change of condition. The
visitation policy will be continually reassessed as new information and
guidance is considered.
“We are committed to doing everything we can to protect our residents,”
says Rhondia Grant, LNHA, administrator,
Senior Care Center-St. Marys. “We will assist residents in using alternative means of communication
to talk with loved ones and remain in contact during this time.”
In addition to restricting visitors, team members and other health care
workers entering the facility are required to go through a health screening
prior to entering the building. “Although there is much that is
still unknown about coronavirus, early data shows that the aged population
and individuals with chronic illnesses are most at risk for severe infection.
Most of the residents at our Senior Care Centers fall into one or both
of those categories,” says
Scott Clay, M.D., medical director,
Senior Care Centers. “In compliance with expert recommendations, our Senior Care Centers
are taking action to limit individuals from entering our facilities, even
those who appear healthy, and to ensure ill team members remain at home.”
“We will continue to monitor and follow information guidelines for
nursing homes put forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention,
taking necessary precautions, preventative measures and the best care
of your loved ones as is possible,” says Jo Lucke, CNHA, FACHCA,
administrator,
Senior Care Center-Brunswick.
The latest guidance on COVID-19 is available through the Georgia Department
of Public Health at its toll-free number, 1-866-PUB-HLTH (1-866-782-4584), or
dph.georgia.gov/novelcoronavirus, or through the Center for Disease Control website at
cdc.gov. For further information regarding Southeast Georgia Health System’s
COVID-19 preparedness and local information, please visit
sghs.org.