COVID Update 7th March 2023
On State government advice, it is anticipated that South Australia will soon experience a significant upsurge in Covid-19 cases across the State. Indeed, in the past week we have declared a Covid-19 outbreak at our St Mary's home. Whilst this outbreak is being well managed by the Boandik St Mary's community (Residents, Representatives and Staff alike), we feel it is timely to increase protections more broadly across the organisation as community acquired Covid-19 cases surge.
As a consequence, we have re-implemented the following preventative measures across Boandik's residential services:
For Visitors attending a non-outbreak service
- Register attendance at the home via Zipline located at the reception area
- Complete a rapid antigen test (RAT) prior to entry (available from reception)
- Wear a surgical grade mask (available from reception) throughout the visit
- Restrict your movement during the visit to the private room of your relative/friend
For Visitors attending an area zoned as Green in a service with an active outbreak
- Register attendance at the home via Zipline located at the reception area
- Complete a rapid antigen test (RAT) prior to entry (available from reception)
- Wear a P2 mask (available at reception) throughout the visit
- Restrict your movement during the visit, to the private room of your relative/friend
For Visitors attending an area of a service zoned as Orange and/or Red
- Register attendance at the home via Zipline located at the reception area
- Complete a rapid antigen test (RAT) prior to entry (available from reception)
- Wear full PPE and a P2 mask (available at the entry to the zone). Staff will assist with the correct PPE donning and doffing processes as required
- Restrict your movement during the visit, to the private room of your relative/friend
Importantly, we would like to reiterate our genuine commitment to protecting and preserving the health and wellbeing of all members of the Boandik Community. Please be rest assured that we regard the measures outlined above as essential steps in reducing the community transmission of Covid-19.
We would like to sincerely thank you for your understanding and patience as we navigate these difficult times together. We understand the many frustrations associated with the above requirements but remain confident that with an appropriate level of proactive diligence that we will soon be in a position to again relax restrictions.
If you have any questions please don't hesitate to contact Pam Alde by phoning 8725 7377.
Kindest Regards
Pam Alde, Chief Client Officer
Glenn Rappensberg, Chief Executive Officer
Media Release
Mr Rappensberg most recently was Boandik's Interim CEO from May to September 2022 following the resignation of long-standing CEO Gillian McGinty, and successfully steered the organisation through a four (4) month Sanction period following a review by the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission in the beginning of 2022.
Ms Quinn says, "that she and the Board are delighted that Mr Rappensberg is able to return to Mount Gambier whilst Boandik continues its journey of self-evaluation post last year's Sanction period to ensure that the care and safety of residents and clients remains at the highest possible standard."
The organisation will shortly commence a comprehensive change management project in order to embrace the Aged Care Reforms positively and work with the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission; it's residents and staff; and the South East Community, to maintain and enhance its status as a much respected and loved provider of services to older Australians and people living with a disability across our beautiful region.
