Glynis Schultz, Executive Director, Community and Oral Health

You would have seen the message from the Metro North Health Incident Controller late yesterday which mentions the relaxation of some visitor restrictions.

So, what does that mean for Community and Oral Health?

Firstly, there are no changes to visitor restrictions for residential aged care facilities (Cooinda and Gannet House) and disability accommodation facilities (Halwyn Centre).

The update removes the requirement for the visitors to use the Queensland Check-in app and to show proof of vaccination, and removes the restrictions on the number of visitors allowed per patient.

People who have been diagnosed with COVID-19 in the past 14 days and wish to visit for any reason must still apply for a Queensland Health exemption.

For COH facilities restrictions still apply for people who:

• Have travelled from overseas within the past 7 days
• Are a close contact of a person with COVID-19
• Are awaiting COVID-19 test results
• Have been diagnosed with COVID-19 in the past 14 days.

These people will need to get approval via the online form on our website prior to visiting.

For all community and oral health facilities and clinics clear signage will be displayed at entranceways detailing this requirement.

In addition, face masks must be worn by all visitors and these will be available through all of our facilities.

There are still restrictions for some people in line with the Management of Diagnosed Cases of COVID-19 and Close Contacts Direction (No.2) and the Requirements for International Arrivals Direction.

Employees, volunteers engaged by Metro North (and not by another organisation), and students are not considered visitors, and should follow the requirements of the Workers in a healthcare setting (COVID-19 Vaccination Requirements) Direction.

Glynis Schultz
Executive Director
Community and Oral Health