God is good! It’s an exciting day in Michigan as we rejoice in the progress the state has made in controlling the Covid 19 virus. As you have probably heard, the Governor has lifted all state restrictions effective June 17,2021.
Governor’s Statement
Excerpt from the Governor’s letter: The introduction of highly effective and safe COVID-19 vaccines and the warmer weather have greatly reduced the spread of COVID-19 across the United States. An increasing number and volume of therapeutics are also available, such as monoclonal antibodies, which can help to reduce the severity of COVID-19 cases. Considering the above, and upon the advice of scientific and medical experts, I have concluded that although the COVID-19 pandemic continues to constitute an epidemic in Michigan, certain protective measures and requirements can be lifted at this time. I therefore order that the following Emergency Orders be rescinded effective June 22, 2021, at 12:01 AM: …”
What does this mean to healthcare providers?
As exciting as this is to us personally, professionally we have extra guidelines we have to follow. The CDC guidelines still require that we wear PPE when we are within 6 feet of our clients, even if both of you have been vaccinated.
Covid Questionnaires Changing
While we cannot change the CDC guidelines, MSC has made the decision to reduce the frequency that we ask you about your exposure to Covid. The caregiver questionnaire that is completed during the first shift of the day, has been changed to only be completed one time a week.
The Covid exposure questionnaire that you complete for every client is being turned off.
Neither of these changes represent a change in our policies regarding managing the risk of Covid and your responsibilities. You are required to ask your unvaccinated clients about their potential exposure at each shift and, if you are unvaccinated, you need to notify the office prior to beginning work if you meet any of the exposure conditions.
God has been good to our agency during Covid. We continue to pray for the safety of all of you and our seniors. A key part of staying safe is full vaccination. If you have not advised the office yet of your vaccination, please make sure you do that this week. We do pay you for an hour of your time for going to get it done. If you haven’t yet been vaccinated, we encourage you to consider the value of the vaccination to you and your community.