March 30, 2020
Dear Friends of Elcor:
As we continue our “no visitation” policy at Elcor, there are several confirmed COVID-19 cases in Chemung and Steuben County. This development has triggered a number of new precautions for us internally: all staff are now required to wear surgical masks any time they are in a resident care area or near a resident; all therapy will be done on the units except Hickory Knoll South will use the new gym; smaller numbers of residents will be eating in the Dining Rooms and; all residents are being asked to stay on their own units to prevent any co-mingling of residents from different units.
We are continuing to complete health screens on all employees as they report to work each day on each shift. The “no visitation rule” will obviously continue into the foreseeable future. We do not know when we will be able to allow resident visitation. I am so sorry about that, we know what an important role you play with our residents. I appreciate your understanding and support in these decisions.
We are committed to helping you stay in close contact with your loved ones. We have set up some technological communication capabilities and can, of course, still assist with phone conversations as well. If you believe a visit to Elcor is necessary, we request that you contact your loved one’s Social Worker.
Elcor is following the recommendations of the CDC on prevention steps, including following strict handwashing procedures, and in many circumstances, wearing gowns and gloves when interacting with residents who present symptoms. We also are staying up to date with the CDC recommendations as they may continue to change. In addition, we are in close contact with the local and state health department, and we are following their guidance.
As always, if you have any questions or concerns, please call anytime. Thank you.