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Walker Methodist increases safety measures surrounding COVID-19

Sarah Benbow, Executive Director of Communications | Mar 12, 2020

At this time there are no cases of COVID-19 in any Walker Methodist community, but out of an abundance of caution, we are enacting new, stricter policies to help protect the vulnerable population that we serve.

Walker Methodist Health Center Minneapolis Campus“The health and wellbeing of our residents, patients, and caregiving team is our chief concern,” said Scott Riddle, president and CEO of Walker Methodist. “Our team is staying up-to-date on the latest information from organizations like Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Department of Health, Metro Coalition, and LeadingAge. We are adjusting our plans and security measures in accordance with new recommendations and developments.”

Walker Methodist is restricting access to the communities, asking visitors to stay out of the community to help stop infections from coming in. “At this time, only those who contribute to the operation of Walker Methodist are allowed access,” said Riddle.

The following measures have been put in place:

  1. Friends, extended families, and all other visitors will not be able to enter the community.
  2. Caregivers and immediate family that are responsible for cares will undergo screening before entering the community, and will be required to follow infection control guidelines.
  3. All visiting pets are not allowed in the communities, including therapy animals. Residents with pets may not have animals in common areas of buildings. 
  4. Essential vendors, providers, and contractors will be screened before entering.
  5. Employees will undergo screening for signs of illness and will be asked about their recent travels before they may enter. Any symptoms will be tracked and reported.
  6. Resident’s group outings will be canceled.
  7. Marketing events for all communities will be canceled.
  8. Internal activities led by our staff will continue, as they enhance our residents’ lives—activities brought in by others will be canceled.
  9. Access to fitness centers will be limited to residents only.

Walker Methodist will continue to allow admissions on a case-by-case basis and will require screening.

Walker Methodist already has significant infection control procedures in place because of cold and flu season, and these measures are being stepped up with increased cleanings and retraining staff in best practices.  

“While we understand that these precautions may seem extreme, we must take these precautions to help avoid and minimize the possible spread of this virus,” said Riddle. “We thank everyone for their concern and cooperation at this time. Each of us plays a vital role in stopping the spread of germs by washing hands often and staying home when sick.”

Walker Methodist has been serving seniors for 75 years, and remains focused on providing exceptional care for all residents and patients.

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