COVID-19 Updates
The information below includes general information about COVID-19, along with Community Pathways’ current policies and procedures for customers and PSW’s in regards to the current outbreak. Community Pathways is closely tracking COVID-19 news, but please be aware that updates from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Oregon Health Authority (OHA) are ongoing, so our processes will continue to change in accordance with their policies! Stay in contact with your PA/your customer’s PA and follow us on Facebook, where we will be posting updates.
General Information About COVID-19
COVID-19, or Coronavirus, is a virus that spreads by way of respiratory droplets in the air or on surfaces. It is transferred person-to-person, similar to the flu, but more contagious. Fever, cough and shortness of breath are common symptoms. This virus is currently labeled as a pandemic by the CDC. Because the virus is easily transmitted, it is important to take extra precaution to prevent further spread of infection.
Community Pathways: Current Operations
Our organization is operating during regular business hours, but we are following recommendations from the CDC, OHA and ODDS to keep our community healthy. We are working to limit the amount of exposure we have to each other and to individuals we support. We have closed our office to the public, but we are still available by phone and fax from 9 AM – 5 PM on Monday through Friday.
PSW Timesheets
We are asking PSW’s to fax or email timesheets. If physically bringing a timesheet into Community Pathways is your only feasible option, please contact the PA of the customer you work with or call the office at (503) 935-5243 and we will work with you to find the best solution.
What to Expect from Your PA
PA’s will be working and continue to be a resource. To take precautions from spreading infection between PA’s and customers, we will be reducing the number of “touch points”, meaning that face-to-face interaction will be limited only to essential meetings. Additionally, we are asking PA’s to limit the length of any face-to-face encounter that does take place. PA’s are processing a lot of information and various supports for people. We will be prioritizing supports and health and safety. Remember if you have an urgent need related to a medical condition, contact your doctor. If you have an emergency, call 911.
Back up planning: If you haven’t already received one, expect a call from your PA. He or she will be checking in to make sure there is a backup plan in place if you, your care provider, roommate or family member become ill.
Prevention
Practice good hygiene! Wash your hands frequently with soap and water or use hand sanitizer when a sink isn’t available. For example, if you are in public spaces, such as the bus or the grocery store, take hand sanitizer with you. Also, maintain as much personal space as possible: a 6-foot distance between each person is recommended.
Avoid leaving your house if possible. If you do leave, minimize the amount of time you are out. Avoid all large group gatherings.
Use extra care to sterilize commonly used areas and wash hands before interaction, especially individuals in households with people who have heart, lung, kidney disease, diabetes, and/or conditions that suppress the immune system.
If you are ill, it is highly recommended to stay home to protect your friends, family and neighbors from illness. It is important to limit contact among people and animals in your own home, as well. Please immediately let your doctor and PA know if you are experiencing symptoms of fever, cough, or shortness of breath. Shortness of breath can be life threatening: Contact a doctor right away, or call 911 if it’s an emergency.
Helpful Resources
CDC – Keeping Home, School and Workplaces Safe
ODDS COVID-19 Information Video
Community Pathways is here for you! If you have any questions regarding COVID-19, please reach out to your PA or to our communications contact, pcantlon@communitypath.org. It is important to remember that these limitations are temporary changes to protect our community. It is Community Pathways’ priority to support our customers during this time. We feel so lucky to be a part of a strong, supportive community and we are optimistic about good health in the future!