Summit Health Solutions is working hard to respond to the rapidly developing COVID-19 situation to safeguard our clients and staff. Starting on 22 March 2020, we introduced new procedures for all our services.
The procedures are consistent with the Australian Federal Government recommendations and guidelines regarding COVID-19. All Summit Health Solutions staff were required to complete the Australian Government Department of Health COVID-19 infection control training.
This module covered infection prevention, symptoms, and how to protect ourselves and everyone we come in contact with. Along with the infection training, all staff must have their Flu vaccination.
Summit Health Solutions has followed the Australian Government Department of Health’s advice and guidelines for the health and aged care sector.
We have implemented screening questions before seeing clients and commencing services to ensure safety regarding the virus.
We have changed some of our face-to-face exercise sessions to online Telehealth appointments to reduce contact between staff and clients.
This removes all physical contact between the client and trainer while allowing our exercise services to continue. Telehealth is a virtual health care program that we use to provide our exercise sessions in live time through the internet.
What exactly are Summit Health Solution staff doing in response to COVID-19?
- All Summit Health Solutions staff have completed the Australian Government Department of Health COVID-19 infection control training.
- By the 1st of May 2020, all staff must have their flu vaccination.
- All staff are practicing strict hygiene. Washing and sanitizing hands before all appointments and coming into contact with clients.
- Using PPE when requested by the client.
- Maintaining social distancing of 1.5 meters between staff and clients during appointments where possible.
- We have moved some of our face-to-face exercise sessions to online Telehealth appointments. This removes all physical contact between the trainer and client while allowing the exercise session to continue.
- Before every appointment commences, staff are required to call before entering the house and ask the client three screening questions:
- Have you, or anyone you live with, had close contact with someone who arrived in Australia from overseas in the last 14 days?
- Have you, or anyone you live with, had close contact with someone confirmed or suspected of having Coronavirus in the last 14 days?
- Do you have any of the following flu-like symptoms?
- Cough
- Fever
- Sore Throat
If these questions are answered, we will not be commencing the service.
Who is most at risk?
Many clients are at greater risk of more serious illness due to COVID-19. Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander people over the age of 50 and non-indigenous people over the age of 65 with these chronic conditions are at greater risk:
- Chronic renal failure
- Coronary heart disease or congestive cardiac failure
- Chronic lung disease
- Poorly controlled diabetes or hypertension
How to protect yourself against COVID-19
Protecting yourself and others against the virus is very important. We must all take preventative steps to help stop the spread. This is done by:
- Practicing good hygiene – wash your hands often with soap and water. Cover your coughs and sneezes using your elbow or a tissue. Avoid touching your mouth, nose, and eyes when in public. Disinfect objects and surfaces that are used frequently.
- Social Distancing – Stay home and only go out for essential travel. Keep at least 1.5 meters away from others where possible. Avoid physical greetings such as hugs, handshakes, and kisses. Use tap-and-go payments instead of cash. Avoid public gatherings and going near high-risk people. Work from home if possible and only leave the house when necessary.
- Self-isolation – If you have COVID-19, have been in close contact with a confirmed case of COVID-19, or have been overseas and arrived back in Australia after 15 March 2020,, you must self-isolate for 14 days. This means you must not leave your house or hotel for any reason unless it is an emergency. You cannot go out in public or let visitors into your house or hotel room.
What else should I do?
During this difficult time, it is recommended to maintain your normal routine where possible. Exercising and eating well will help boost your immune system and maintain your mental health.
Exercising 20-45 minutes daily at least 3-4 days per week is recommended for optimal health and well-being while isolated at home. Resistance, functional, balance, and endurance exercises can all be performed at home.
Following a program with a trainer or participating in exercise groups via the Internet or phone calls is a great way to maintain regular movement and exercise.
Try to keep yourself busy and make the most of this time. Talking with your friends and family on the phone or via video calls, baking a favorite recipe, or catching up on your favorite TV shows are great options.
To keep updated on the latest COVID-19 news and receive advice from The Australian Government, go to https://www.australia.gov.au/
If you are concerned or worried about COVID-19, call the National Coronavirus Helpline on 1800 020 080 or go to https://coronavirus.beyondblue.org.au/ for mental wellbeing and support services.
In 2023, we at Summit Health Solutions remain steadfast in our commitment to upholding Covid-19 precautions. Although substantial strides have been made in containing the pandemic, we understand that the virus still risks public health.
As a result, we continue to advocate for the diligent practice of preventive measures. These measures include wearing masks in crowded or indoor settings, practicing good hand hygiene, and adhering to social distancing guidelines.