Most of you will be aware that Victoria has today recorded its highest rate of community transmission so far. While this is a clear reminder that the pandemic is far from over, I want to reassure staff that we are constantly reviewing Western Health’s coronavirus response. Ever since we established our COVID-19 Command Centre almost six months ago, we have been committed to responding to these challenges in a very agile and considered manner, as Western Health does so well. Thank you all for your support – and for being so adaptable – as we continue to prioritise the safety of our patients, staff, visitors and broader community.
Today’s bulletin includes important advice on how you can keep yourself safe at work. This includes information regarding staff movement across sites, maintaining physical distancing and the safe set-up office spaces. Please refer to the updated Keeping Safe at Work During COVID-19 QRG.
Western Health’s commitment to protecting our communities from COVID-19 extends well beyond our sites. Our ICU Director Dr Craig French features in the State Government’s new coronavirus awareness ad campaign, which went to air last night. Craig was also interviewed on the Today Show this morning and Seven News last night about his participation in the campaign. Thanks Craig for your leadership, both in the ICU and publicly. Click on the image below to view the Today Show clip.
Finally, I’d like to encourage each of you to consider your own wellbeing. Try to relax and recharge on your days off, when possible. We have challenging times ahead, and the best way of ensuring we can provide Best Care to our patients is if we also look after ourselves, and each other.
Thanks for reading.
Regards
Natasha
COVID-19 daily summary
• Number of Respiratory Assessment Clinic and drive-through presentations over weekend: 872
• Numbers of confirmed COVID-19 inpatients: 57
Keeping Safe at Work
The Keeping Safe At Work QRG has been updated to include important advice to staff about staff movements across sites, maintaining physical distancing and the set-up of office spaces. Please click here for more details.
COVID-19 Staff Enquiries Helpdesk
A reminder that Western Health has a dedicated COVID-19 Staff Enquiries Helpdesk. Staff can email or call the Helpdesk directly with questions about the onset of COVID-19 symptoms, exposures to COVID-19 in the community or home, testing criteria, clinic information and results. Managers can also contact the Helpdesk to seek advice about COVID-related matters impacting their staff. Staff confidentiality will be maintained at all times.
Contact information: Email is recommended as the first point of contact where possible. Emails will be responded to within 24 hours. Email address: whscovid-19staffclinicenquiries@wh.org.au
Telephone contact: via Switch 8345 6666, choose option 1 for COVID – then request Staff Enquiries Helpdesk.