Helen Boocock, Executive Director, STARS
As per the Message from the Metro North Health Incident Controller – COVID-19 & Influenza update 414 that came out yesterday, Metro North Health has moved to Tier 3 of the new Metro North COVID-19 and Influenza Response Plan 2022. This is due to significant community transmission of COVID-19 and influenza.
What this means for STARS:
- Planned care is continuing at STARS (surgery and outpatient appointments)
- Optimise virtual care
- All staff in clinical areas are required to wear N95/P2 masks and protective eyewear
- Pause all non-essential meetings
- Essential meetings must be held using virtual platforms (no face-to-face meetings). This includes case conferences
- Ensure RAT tests prior to interhospital transfers
- Low tolerance for testing if inpatients are symptomatic
- Dining rooms will be closed while in Tier 3
- Discourage staff congregation in shared spaces including tea room
It’s important that we do everything we can to look after our patients and each other during this time. Please remember the basics: physical distancing, hand hygiene and mask wearing. While it’s not compulsory to wear a mask outside of work, I’d like to encourage you all to consider doing so during this current wave. We want to ensure you all remain safe and well. Please also book an appointment to be fit tested if you are yet to do so: STARS Mobile Fit Testing.
And if you are having trouble getting in to see a GP, please consider the GP Respiratory Clinics.
Thank you all for pulling together once again during this demanding period. I am very grateful to you all for remembering your values and for your commitment to our patients and our community.
Best wishes,
Helen