COVID-19 Transparency
Overview of protocols initiated
Bickford has implemented a phased-in approach to reopening. The vast majority of our Branches are in phase 1. Details are found below.
Restricted visitor access based upon health symptoms and geographical hot spots
Screening everyone who enters the Branch
Masks worn by all visitors and BFMs (recommended for residents)
Updated education on infection control practice and handwashing completed in each Branch
Enhanced disinfection protocols
Daily Resident Health Checks
Continuous monitoring of CDC, county, state and federal agencies for updates
Socially distanced dining or room service
Social distancing guidelines are consistently reinforced
Exercise 2x daily
Beverage/snack cart to apartments 2x daily
COVID-19 Transparency
Response Timeline
»
More Information
For more information, click on the links below. If you still have questions and concerns, reach out to us at
covid19@bickfordseniorliving.com or connect with your local Branch director.
What is the current visitation policy?
Bickford has implemented a phased-in approach to visitation. This policy is based on county/state requirements. Check with local Branch leadership prior to your planned visit.Planning a visit to your local Branch?
Contact your local Branch to set a visit, and to ensure that where you reside or recent travels would not exclude you from visiting. For restricted geographical locations click here. You will be screened upon your arrival at the Branch. Bickford requires you to wear a mask during your entire visit and maintain 6-foot social distancing at all times. Visiting is limited to resident apartment and outside areas.How can I stay connected to my loved one?
We encourage regular communication with your loved one utilizing technology (i.e. phone, FaceTime, Skype) and are happy to assist any way we can. The local Branch’s website (www.bickfordseniorliving.com) and Facebook page will be regularly updated with Branch happenings. Be sure to ‘Like’ our local Facebook page.Can my loved one leave their apartment?
Yes. We have educated all our residents to wear a mask, practice social distancing (6 feet), use appropriate hand washing, and have an awareness of touching surfaces. We will continue to encourage as much activity, and social interaction as we can while maintaining a safe environment.Is Bickford conducting tours?
Yes. In most Branches in-person tours are available. These tours will follow all Bickford guidelines for resident and guest safety. Virtual tours can be conducted in all locations.Is Bickford accepting new move ins?
Yes. We were created to meet the needs of the frail elderly and will continue to do so during this time. New residents will go through the same procedures and screenings that our current residents do to enter the Branch. As an added layer of protection all new residents will be isolated in their apartments.Are new move-ins tested for COVID-19?
Yes. All new residents are tested at the time of move-in and go through an initial isolation period while awaiting test results.Does Bickford have the staff to care for my loved one?
Yes, but this is an ever-evolving challenge. We are being creative in anticipating the needs of our BFMs for things like school openings/closings, day care, personal family constraints, etc. We know as an organization we have to meet our BFMs needs so that they will be able to meet our resident's needs. So far, we are proud of how our people are rising to the challenge.Is my loved one safe?
Bickford provides an access-controlled environment and makes every effort to keep your loved one safe. As of August 6, 2020, less than 5% of Bickford’s residents have experienced COVID-19. Approximately 90% of our Branches have remained COVID-19 free.Are Residents allowed to leave the Branch?
All residents are strongly discouraged from leaving the Branch, due to the high risk of exposure. However, if a Resident chooses to leave the Branch they will be screened prior to returning. If the Resident fails this screening, they will be quarantined upon return.What if COVID-19 is reported in a Branch?
If there is a case of COVID-19 in one of our Branches, we will notify family and residents first, typically within 24 hours. We will then report those cases on our website.What is Bickford doing to help prevent BFMs (employees) from bringing in the virus?
All BFMs and essential health care professionals are being screened each day at the front door prior to entry. Additionally, all BFMs are wearing masks during their entire shift. We also educate our BFMs on CDC guidelines and infection control practices to avoid exposure to COVID-19.How is Bickford monitoring residents for signs of COVID-19?
Each resident is monitored at least once daily for signs, symptoms and temperature.Can medical health care professionals visit residents in the Branch?
Yes, they will be screened for admittance to Bickford Branches. All professionals must meet our stringent infection control requirements including wearing Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).Can my loved one resume routine medical appointments?
The RNC will coordinate with the resident, family and provider, to determine if the visit is essential or can be temporarily delayed and rescheduled.Can I still bring supplies and care packages to Bickford?
Items are to be delivered to the front door and clearly labeled with resident’s name.If I am currently setting up medications for my loved one may I continue to do so?
Yes. Deliver the pill box to the front door and appropriately notify us. Please contact Branch leadership if you would like to change who administers medications.Does Bickford have the supplies to support my loved one’s needs during this time?
Yes. Bickford has longstanding relationships with a multitude of vendors to continue to meet the needs of our residents. We have procedures in place to ensure the continued supply and delivery of all essential items including food, medical equipment, incontinence products, etc.Is Bickford using a chemical disinfectant that will kill COVID-19?
Yes. Bickford uses a chemical disinfectant in the Branches that kills all viruses and bacteria. This chemical is 100% effective against COVID-19. We do not use bleach, as you might in your own home, due to its caustic nature.Are Chaplains visiting Branches?
Chaplains are screened at entry and wear PPE. Chaplains are also available to connect with residents and families virtually or outside the Branch. Please reach out to Branch leadership if you have questions on how to establish this connection.What does active cases of COVID-19 mean?
An active case is a current resident that has tested positive for COVID-19. This resident may or may not be residing in the branch based on their need for hospitalization.
How often is this number updated?
Residents and families are always notified personally first. Once these notifications have been completed this number is updated. Typically, within 24 hours.
Why do Bickford’s COVID-19 transparency numbers differ from what state agencies or other sources are reporting?
Bickford has opted to post, on our website, all confirmed positive resident cases of COVID-19. Some states have chosen to include other information beyond positive cases. They are including residents with symptoms that could be associated with COVID-19 such as a cough or any temperature recorded above 99°. These symptoms may also be associated with common cold, bronchitis, asthma, and seasonal allergies. We understand this creates even more confusion in these uncertain times and that is why Bickford has chosen to lead with transparency and will continue to do so. We will only report positive cases.
Are the Dining Rooms open?
Yes, we have implemented socially distanced dining. Bickford limits the number of residents in the dining room at each seating (there are 2 seatings for each meal). Tables and chairs are cleaned between seatings. Residents are asked to wear a mask while traveling to/from the dining room.
Can my loved one receive room service instead of eating in the dining room?
Yes, your loved one may opt to receive room service. Anyone exhibiting signs and symptoms will receive room service.
Do you offer choices on your menu?
Yes, our menu includes choices of entrees and vegetables, is approved by a registered dietician and meets all the nutritional requirements recommended for our residents.
What about special diets?
We will still follow a menu that is prepared by a registered dietician that meets all the nutritional requirements recommended for our population. This menu will not include choices of entrees or vegetables as we implement this process.
Seniors Congratulating Seniors
May 27
When you have lived for 99 years, some would say you know a thing or two. That is why some senior citizens at Bickford Senior Living of Bexley are participating in an effort to offer high school seniors some advice as well as let current high school seniors know their accomplishment of graduating is not going unnoticed.
»
Student pen pals help senior citizens cope with coronavirus isolation
May 14
Some high school students in the American heartland are turning to the old-fashioned art of letter writing to reach local senior citizens who are not allowed to venture out or have visitors during the coronavirus pandemic.
»
‘We Have to Get Ahead of This’: Amid Bad Press, Senior Living Providers Must Be Transparent
April 29
When a local news publication ran a story highlighting Covid-19 infections and deaths at a Bickford community in Aurora, Illinois, the company didn’t shy away from talking to the press. Instead, Bickford Executive Vice President Alan Fairbanks used the opportunity to provide clarity on the state’s reported numbers and share more about what Bickford is doing to keep residents safe.
»
Digging Deeper: Families critical of nursing home, health depts. for handling of COVID-19 info
April 23
In the last week, long-term care facilities have been required to inform family members of COVID-19 cases immediately, but they aren't required to make that information public. And according to Andy Eby, co-owner of Bickford Senior Living, that's not good enough.
»
Iowa Withholding Names of Nursing Homes with COVID-19 Cases
April 21
As of April 21, nursing home residents accounted for 51% of Iowa's 84 deaths from COVID-19. But Iowa health officials refused to identify all facilities with a confirmed case. Bickford Senior Living decided to take a different approach.
»
One Iowa Senior Living Facility Owner’s Answer to Coronavirus: Transparency
April 10
Bickford Senior Living is doing something that Iowa's health department won’t: Publish notice of every single COVID-19 case at its locations.
»
To Battle Isolation, Elders and Children Connect as Pen Pals
April 10
To battle isolation and boredom, Bickford of Sioux City connected residents with high schoolers as pen pals.
»
Cheers to Grandma
April 10
What is a group of seniors to do in their quarantined living space when they run out of happy hour wine? Norma Bock at Bickford of Burlington had just the answer - reach out to the public on social media!
»
A Message to BFMs #1
March 15Our top priority is to ensure we are doing everything to protect and prevent Coronavirus (COVID-19) in our Branches. The health, welfare and safety of our residents, their family and our Bickford Family Members (staff) is our key focus and intention. Please take a moment to watch this video from Andy Eby, Owner and Family Member as it relates to Bickford's approach to Coronavirus.
A Message to BFMs #2
March 26A message to our BFMs (employees) from Andy Eby, Caregiver/Owner of Bickford Senior Living. We’re so proud of your courage and the love you are giving our residents
BFM (employee) FAQ
How can I protect myself and my family?
Follow Centers for Disease Control (CDC) Guidelines, state and local mandates, wash your hands for 20 seconds, avoid contact with those that are known to have, or suspected of having COVID-19. Bickford requires you to wear a mask your entire shift. As a best practice, Bickford strongly encourages you to always wear a mask when out in the community.Why are we screening everyone that enters Bickford?
This is the best way we can protect our BFMs and Residents. Our goal is to limit our resident’s exposure to the COVID-19 virus.What happens if I fail the screening or exhibit symptoms during my shift?
Bickford will test you for COVID-19 prior to leaving. You will then be quarantined until 72 hours after your symptoms have resolved and your test results are received. A positive test will extend the quarantine period.Am I required to come to work during the COVID-19 pandemic?
Yes. Bickford is closely monitoring State and Federal Guidelines regarding the COVID-19 virus. Branches and Branch Support are operating under normal schedules and all BFMs are expected to report to work as usual. The work of caring for the frail elderly goes on despite our current situation.When should I stay home and not report to work?
If you have symptoms of COVID-19, a diagnosis of COVID-19 or are living with someone who has or is currently waiting on test results for COVID-19.Why are we performing Resident Health Checks?
To monitor Residents and identify potential COVID-19 symptoms. This allows us to take appropriate measures to protect our BFMs and other residents.How will our residents’ contract COVID-19?
Residents are most likely to become infected from a source outside of Bickford. It is likely that those going about their daily lives will be in contact with the virus and inadvertently bring it to the Branch. Be mindful of your role and your potential to carry the virus.Am I required to come to work during the COVID-19 pandemic?
Yes. Bickford is closely monitoring State and Federal Guidelines regarding the COVID-19 virus. Branches and Branch Support are operating under normal schedules and all BFMs are expected to report to work as usual. The work of caring for the frail elderly goes on despite our current situation.When should I stay home and not report to work?
If you have symptoms of COVID-19, a diagnosis of COVID-19 or are living with someone who has or is currently waiting on test results for COVID-19. Communication with the Branch and the Infection Control Nurse is required.My fellow BFM is coughing and sneezing, and I am not comfortable sharing the same workspace. What are my options?
BFMs should report these types of concerns to Branch leadership. Everyone is screened prior to entry. Symptoms will be noted and those that do not pass the screening will be sent home.Will I be paid if I’m quarantined and unable to work?
Bickford will allow you to go negative in your Paid Time Off (PTO) account by 80 hours when you have been quarantined according to Bickford’s protocols. This will cover the typical 14-day quarantine period.What will happen to my job if I’m unable to work?
All positions will be temporarily filled until you’re able to return to work.What will happen to my job if I refuse to work?
You are placing our residents and your co-workers in a very difficult situation. Bickford Senior Living is an essential business (a health care company) and will be open during this entire crisis. We will do our best to fill all positions and your job may not be available when you choose to return.What should I do if I am at home and experience flu like symptoms?
You should notify your Director and the Infection Control Nurse. You are encouraged to seek immediate medical attention by calling your healthcare provider. If you have BCBS insurance through Bickford we encourage you to use our Telehealth platform. You can download the Amwell Mobile App or visit www.Amwell.comMy child’s school or childcare is closed? What options do I have?
Bickford will work with you to find alternative places for your child while you are at work. Contact your Director for options and assistance.If I see my own physician for COVID-19 test will it be covered under my BCBS insurance?
Effective immediately, testing to diagnose COVID-19 when medically necessary and consistent with CDC guidance will be covered with no member co-payments or deductibles.Can I use my Short-Term Disability (STD) cover the COVID-19 virus?
If this is a benefit you have, you should contact VOYA 1-888-305-0605.Can I apply for unemployment benefits if I’m unable to work due to COVID-19?
Bickford does not dictate or determine unemployment compensation benefit payments. You can contact your local state entity if you have questions.What happens if I go out of town during COVID-19?
Bickford strongly discourages travel to “Hot Spots” during the COVID-19 pandemic. If you visit a “Hot Spot” designated by Bickford or your state, you will be required to quarantine upon your return. This quarantine is unpaid. For clarification on “Hot Spots” contact your Branch leadership.What the CDC has to say on what you need to know about Coronavirus prevention.
Over 15 million people are known to be infected with COVID-19 and the death statistics in seniors are astounding. The vaccine will be a game changer in knocking out COVID-19 in our Branches. Bickford has proactively entered the federal COVID-19 Vaccination program. We will have access to vaccine within the next few weeks. We have also learned ONLY those Resident’s and BFM’s (employees) identified NOW will have access to the vaccination program. We have a small window to finalize our list of Residents and BFM’s and once that list is completed, the window will close. We know until vaccine is more widely available in the fall, our Resident’s and BFM’s are at continued risk and we ask for your support, agreement, and encouragement of your family member to take the vaccine. We have prepared the following FAQ to help answer the many questions you may have.
Why should our Residents at Bickford take the vaccine?
Our Residents are vulnerable and are more susceptible to infection and negative health outcomes. The vaccine will protect them, our BFM’s, other Residents, their families, and friends from infection.
What if a Resident (or their POA) refuses the vaccine?
Bickford strongly recommends Residents take the vaccine to protect themselves, BFM’s, other Residents, and those they love. Bickford will continue to screen for symptoms, administer tests, and quarantine as needed. Wearing a mask during person-to-person contact may also be required.
How is the COVID-19 vaccine different from the annual flu vaccine?
This vaccine is made from genetic RNA material, that is produced synthetically, there is no virus in the vaccine. Traditional flu vaccines are made from virus that has been rendered harmless. The flu vaccine is traditionally 40-50% effective whereas the COVID-19 is more than 94% effective.
Are these new vaccines safe?
Yes, RNA vaccines have been used for about a decade. Many manufactures have been working on other types of coronavirus vaccines so were able to mobilize a vaccine for COVID-19. The FDA requires 3,000 participants to receive the vaccine before approval of the vaccine. Over 50,000 participants have received the COVID-19 vaccine. These vaccines have been proven to be safe and over 94% effective.
What are the side effects?
Only 2-3% of those vaccinated, experienced side effects, such as mild headache, body and joint aches and tiredness. The side effects are similar or slightly more pronounced with the second dose. Most side effects start anywhere from 12-24 hours after the dose and usually last for no more than a day or so. Seniors generally have less side effects because their immune response and defense mechanisms are weaker. There are other very rare side effects.
Will we need to report any side effects from the vaccine?
Yes, we are required to report side effects.
Who will get the vaccine first?
Hospital, healthcare staff, and those working/residing in the long-term care and assisted living communities.
When will the vaccine become available to others?
We expect the vaccine will become available to those that have medical conditions, seniors, and other essential health care workers, in early spring. We hope that the vaccine will be widely available to others in the fall 2021.
How much vaccine will be available?
Initial estimates are enough vaccine for 10 million people in the first distribution. For this first round of vaccine two doses are required 21-28 days apart. Access to the vaccine will gain momentum as many more pharmaceutical companies bring their vaccines to market.
Are seniors more at risk if they do not get the vaccine?
Yes, death from COVID is the highest in those over the age of 65.
What happens if I don’t take the covid vaccine series (two doses)?
Manufacturers have shown effective immunity in excess of 94% with two doses. If you do not take the series the vaccine may not be effective.
Will I get COVID-19 from the vaccine or give someone COVID-19 from the vaccine?
No, because you are not vaccinated with the live coronavirus.
If I had COVID-19 do I still need to take the vaccine?
Yes, because we do not know how much immunity you acquired from being infected. We know the vaccine will provide you continued immunity and protection from re-infection.
Can I change my mind if I want the vaccine?
You will need to make this decision quickly. This is the ONLY access to the COVID-19 vaccine (in Dec 2020/Jan 2021) at Bickford.
We do expect those working/residing in assisted living to have limited access to the vaccine through local health departments (HD). This may require BFM’s or Resident’s to go to the HD or designated location to receive the vaccine.
Will I be able to stop wearing a mask or social distancing once I receive the vaccine?
No, unfortunately until we have a significant reduction in infection and the population vaccinated these requirements will continue.
After Residents and BFM’s receive the vaccine, what does this mean for Bickford COVID precautions? Do screenings continue? Do we allow entertainment, outings, etc.?
Screening will continue into the foreseeable future. We will follow the guidance of Local, State and Federal regulatory agencies as they relate to Resident activities.
Will the established FDA approval process be used for the COVID-19 vaccine?
Absolutely. The FDA follows stringent criteria for approving vaccines and will follow the same established process for the COVID-19 vaccine.
What does FDA Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) mean?
This means the vaccine is approved for use – and establishes parameters of safe administration based on the research data from the clinical trials.
How was the vaccine produced so quickly?
A worldwide Pandemic allowed for many countries to release emergency funds as well as donated funds from other industries to accelerate the speed of development of the vaccine. We also saw an unprecedented collaboration of top scientists from around the world, (i.e., CDC, World Health Organization, National Institutes of Health) working closely with each other and the pharmaceutical industry.
For more information from the CDC:
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/index.html
COVID-19 Transparency Response Timeline
This timeline details our key milestones in how we have responded to the COVID-19 crisis.
We’ve worked tirelessly in order to meet our residents’ needs while keeping everyone involved safe. Certainly, this has been a challenging time for all of us. What we hope comes across in this update is our real transparency and authenticity, even during this vortex of events. We have made mistakes but we are continually learning and evolving our approach. The only thing we can say with certainty is that we never stopped doing what was right for our residents and BFMs. Whatever it takes.
December 30
First COVID-19 vaccination clinic held in Columbus, OH
December 22
Bickford conducts Town Hall calls to answer BFM (employee) vaccine questions
December 16
Branch Support releases video encouraging BFMs (employees) to take the COVID vaccine
November 24
Bickford receives notification of acceptance into the vaccination program
November 3
2020 Presidential Election
October 27
Bickford signs up to participate in Walgreen’s COVID-19 vaccination program
October 15
Bickford conducts Flu Clinics in all Branches
September 16
Bickford proactively reaches out to Health Departments to initiate vaccination process for Senior Living
September 10
The 2020 NFL season kicks off with pandemic protocols and reduced fan attendance
September 1
COVID Core Checks rolled out to all Branches
August 30
250k+ screenings completed in Bets-e (Electronic Tracking System)
August 17
Bickford’s application for COVID-19 PA Hazard Pay Grant approved. $49k+ to be distributed to front line workers
August 14
Bickford added screening question related to visits to "Hot-Spots"
July 23
Johns Hopkins reports COVID cases top 4 million in US. COVID cases surge particularly in Arizona, California, Florida, Georgia, Texas. School reopening plans are a focus of family conversations
July 13
Bickford implemented Phase 2 of the Branch Re-Opening Plan. This primarily involves allowing residents’ families to visit them in their apartments. Details of plan are adjusted according to city/state guidelines
June 30
Johns Hopkins reports COVID cases top 48,000 per day in US
June 15
As of this day, Bickford has experienced 82 COVID resident cases across 3310 total units.
Bickford implemented the initial phase of the Branch Re-opening Plan. This primarily involves allowing front porch visits of families and social-distanced communal dining. Details of plan are adjusted according to city/state guidelines
June 12
Nearly all quarantined BFMs from initial COVID testing are able to return to work
June 9
- Deployed BETS-e (Bickford’s Electronic Tracking System) app to manage visitor and BFM information
- Initial BFM COVID testing complete. Results showed 6% tested positive for COVID. Nearly all of these individuals were asymptomatic and were appropriately quarantined per CDC guidelines
June 8
Ohio began lifting restrictions and allowed front porch visits for families to visit their loved ones
June 1
- COVID-19 Task Force began developing a plan to address the negative effects of quarantine, isolation and COVID-19 protocols. The plan will incorporate a holistic approach (i.e. mental, social) to resident care in addition to the physical risks of the virus. The plan will also outline a phased re-opening of dining, activities and welcoming outside visitors into the Branch.
- Branch Support re-opened with entry screenings and social distancing protocols
May 28
Began COVID-19 testing for all BFMs
May 27
First release of Bickford COVID-19 Transparency Response Timeline
May 15
Bickford procured 3,500 COVID-19 test kits for BFM testing
May 14
Bickford on CBS News*
Some high school students in the American heartland are turning to the old-fashioned art of letter writing to reach local senior citizens who are not allowed to venture out or have visitors during the coronavirus pandemic.
May 6
April unemployment rate likely to hit 15% or higher, by far the highest since the Great Depression; two months earlier, the rate was 3.5%, a 50-year low (NYT)
May 5
Major supermarket chains limited meat purchases in response to shortages stemming from virus outbreaks
May 2
More than a dozen U.S. states began to loosen restrictions imposed to limit the spread of COVID-19
April 30
CDC updated guidance on return-to-work criteria for healthcare personnel diagnosed with COVID-19 from 7 to 10 days
April 27 - 29
- Screening tool updated to reflect CDC expansion of COVID-19 symptoms
- PPE availability tightened due to states reopening nonessential businesses
April 25
New York Times reported testing remained scarce as governors weighed reopening states
April 22
Bickford of Iowa City is the first Branch to come off quarantine
April 21
Bickford on KCRG-TV9 News*
As of April 21, nursing home residents accounted for 51% of Iowa's 84 deaths from COVID-19. But Iowa health officials refused to identify all facilities with a confirmed case. Bickford Senior Living decided to take a different approach
April 15
FEDERAL GUIDANCE
CDC issued guidance specific to Assisted Living Facilities
April 14
Bickford’s therapy partner, Fox Rehabilitation, designed specific exercise program in response to COVID-19 challenges
April 10
Bickford in The Hawkeye*
What is a group of seniors to do in their quarantined living space when they run out of happy hour wine? Norma Bock at Bickford of Burlington had just the answer - reach out to the public on social media!
Bickford in The New York Times*
To battle isolation and boredom, Bickford of Sioux City connected residents with high schoolers as pen pals
Bickford in The Des Moines Register*
Bickford Senior Living is doing something that Iowa's health department won’t: Publish notice of every single COVID-19 case at its locations
April 6
The Masters moved to November 2020
April 6
The scores are in! Monthly resident happiness scores surged to an all-time high
April 3 - 7
- Corporate distribution center shipped enhanced PPE par levels to Branches
- Hydration/nutrition carts implemented (2x daily)
- All BFMs required to wear masks at all times
- 5-day quarantine for all move-ins
April 1
Bickford launched COVID-19 Transparency, becoming the first senior living operator to post confirmed, active COVID-19 cases online
March 30
Updated screening tool to include a mid-shift BFM temperature check (2x daily)
March 27
Disney closed theme parks
March 26
Major redesign of COVID-19 webpage for enhanced communication. Added protocols initiated and a dedicated BFM FAQ
March 24
2020 Tokyo Summer Olympics postponed to 2021
March 23 - 24
- First company-wide COVID-19 video conference
- Corporate office closure (work from home), emergency taskforce remained onsite
- Infection Control Nurse utilized for BFM COVID-19 communication
- Compiled existing guidance and protocols into a comprehensive COVID-19 guide
- Implemented company-wide room service dining
- Incorporated social distancing by limiting Branch activities to 10 residents or less
- 14-day isolation of residents moving from a COVID-19 environment
March 20
FEDERAL GUIDANCE
CMS issued guidance titled “Preventing the Spread of COVID-19 in Retirement Communities and Independent Living Facilities (Interim Guidance)”
March 20
- Implemented strategy for Marketplace Chaplains to virtually connect with residents/families/BFMs
- Implemented infection control protocols for mail/package delivery
- Provided all BFMs emergency essential health care worker ID cards
March 19
Andy Eby (owner of Bickford) filmed video message encouraging displaced workers to apply
March 18
- Updated screening tool to include inquiry of COVID-19 exposure in other communities worked/visited
- Implemented Quick Hire Guide to streamline new-hire process
- Increased use of local social media to improve general communication with families
March 17
NCAA cancelled 2020 Tournaments
March 17
- Began daily video conferences between COVID-19 Task Force and divisional leadership to enhance organizational communication and agility
- Restricted Branch access to BFMs and essential health care professionals (no visitors allowed)
- External health care professionals required to wear appropriate PPE while in Branch and be compliant with Bickford’s enhanced COVID-19 protocols
- Sourced cloth masks (4-ply) as a temporary solution during critical PPE shortage
March 16
First Bickford resident diagnosed with COVID-19
March 15
FEDERAL GUIDANCE
CMS released guidance recommending in-person events with more than 50 people be postponed for the next 8 weeks
March 15
BFMs received video message from Andy Eby (owner of Bickford) addressing the importance of our COVID-19 response
March 14
Resident families received video message from Andy Eby (owner of Bickford) addressing our COVID-19 response. Video also posted on website
March 12
MLB cancelled 2020 Spring Training and delays start of season indefinitely
March 13
President Trump declared National Emergency
FEDERAL GUIDANCE
CMS updated nursing home guidance focusing on restrictions for visitors and wearing PPE
States and cities started closing schools
March 10 - 13
COVID-19 Emergency Response Guidelines enhanced to reduce resident exposure to virus
- Implemented visitor and BFM (employee) screening tool (including temperature checks)
- Implemented daily resident health checks (including temperature checks)
- Eliminated Branch large group gatherings and community outings
- Restricted visitor access/hours to immediate family and health care professionals
- Strongly discouraged families from taking residents out of Branch
- Eliminated corporate travel
- Introduced 14-day quarantine for BFMs returning to work due to risks associated with travel
March 9
Published COVID-19 FAQ on website
March 6
FEDERAL GUIDANCE
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued initial guidance on long-term care facilities
March 6
Issued first COVID-19 Emergency Response Guidelines
- Heightened infection control training and communication
- Implemented organization-wide PPE inventory management
- Branches procured additional, necessary PPE
- Implemented Branch communication plan with families
- Branches directed to proactively contact county health departments to seek guidance
March 2 - 4
First COVID-19 Task Force meetings held at Branch Support in Olathe, KS
Restricted Geographical Locations
Bickford has identified the following states as hot spots and will restrict visitor access to Branches if you have visited or reside in these hot spot locations within the last 14 days. Due to the nature of COVID-19, hot spot locations are subject to change and updated at a minimum weekly.
GA:
IA:
IL:
IN:
KS:
MI:
MN:
MO:
NE:
OH: AL, ID, IA, KS, SD
PA: AL, AK, AR, CO, FL, ID, IL, IN, IA, KS, KY, LA, MI, MN, MS, MO, MT, NE, NM, NV, NC, ND, OK, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, WI, WY
VA:
Winnebago County, IL: AL, AK, AZ, AR, CA, CO, CT, DE, DC, FL, GA, IN, ID, IA, KS, KY, LA, MA, MS, MT, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NY, NC, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, TN, TX, UT, VA, WV