Dear clients,
These past couple of weeks have been difficult for all of us, but we will continue to provide services as best as we can. The community we serve is one of the most vulnerable to COVID-19. We want to assure you that we are working diligently to make sure that all your needs are being met.
We do fall under the essential business guideline provided by the state of Virginia and will remain open. However, something to keep in mind is that home care services are prioritized separate from medical providers such as doctors and hospitals. If any of this changes, we will inform you.
Personal Protection Equipment (PPE):
Typically for unskilled nursing, there isn’t a need for Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) such as gloves and facemasks. However, we are working with medical suppliers to ensure that PPE is available during this outbreak. We only work with certified suppliers and would not provide equipment that doesn’t- meet regulations. We have already placed orders for PPE for our caregivers and our supplies should be here shortly. However, these supplies are very limited and it’s important that they are used properly and only by the caregivers while providing services. The medical industry is facing a vast shortage of supplies. It is unclear as to when these will be available again as some suppliers are backordered for months.
Hygiene and Sanitation.
We are emphasizing the need for appropriate hygiene and sanitation. It is also crucial to limit exposure by staying at home, unless absolutely necessary (i.e. medical appointments). At this time, we are urging our clients to only explore information from verified sources (ex. Virginia DMAS, CDC, etc.).
You can find more information here: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html
COVID-19 Testing:
Clients are urged to get testing if they show any symptoms. Medicaid has released a memo indicating that copays and fees related to COVID-19 testing and treatment will be waived for eligible members. Please be on the lookout from an official update from them. The state of Virginia is also working with other insurers to waive testing fees as well. More information can be found here: https://www.virginia.gov/coronavirus-updates/
There is still a lot of uncertainty in regards to next steps, however we will do our best to provide you with the care you need. We are working with MCOs, Care Coordinators and Department of Medical Assistance Services (DMAS) and we will update when we receive more information.
Thank you for your patience and please stay safe.
Hope Home Care
703-359-4673
www.hopehc.org
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