COVID-19 SAFETY PLAN

Ensuring that only healthy people will be permitted in the practice environment via:

At the outset, an informed consent is required from the patient. This includes ensuring that the patient understands that while there have been measures taken to minimize the risk of viral transmission, the nature of hands on therapy means that physical distancing is not possible in the treatment room.
Patient is sent a Pre-screening Consent form prior to their first visit. Followed by a Symptom Self-Assessment tool 24 hours prior to subsequent visits.
Symptom Self-Assessment tool run through again prior to treatment (assess necessary precautions even if results indicate, “go ahead”).
HCWs who have been exposed to patients with COVID-19 are directed to the “BCCDC’s Exposures and return to work for healthcare workers” to determine if they fall into the Low Risk category.
All clinic practitioners/staff will self-assess and complete the Self-Monitoring Log daily; have received the policies for staying home and calling 811 if sick.
A patient who has contracted Covid-19 must have quarantined for at least 14 days, and have obtained clearance by a public health authority or doctor.

Physical distancing measures outside the treatment room:

*Clearly understood distancing protocols – staff, practitioner and patient must maintain 2 metres/6 feet of distance in clinic areas, as best as possible*

Practitioner/Staff:

Informs patient to arrive at time of appointment to reduce traffic.
Limits occupancy with the use of signage on the entrance door.
Minimizes chairs in the waiting area.
Directs patient to bullets placed on the floor at least 2 meters apart.
Minimizes the use of shared equipment including computers and phones.
Staggers appointment start and end times.
Have protective shields at administrative front desks.

Physical distancing measures outside the treatment room (cont.):

Patient:

Must arrive unaccompanied unless patient is a minor who requires parent/guardian, or infirm and needs assistance.
Wait outside (in their car, or an area suggested by practitioner/staff) and not in reception, until it is time to enter.
Enter through the front door only.
Can use self check-in option on entrance and back doors.

Physical distancing measures inside the treatment room:

It is not possible to maintain physical distancing in the treatment room; however, every effort is taken to maintain distance while intake/assessment is performed.

Physical distancing measures for the washroom:

Hygiene, sanitation, and distancing are all considered, and clear instructions are shared with patients in advance of arriving.
No waiting in the common area to use the washroom.

Detailed hand hygiene and cleaning/disinfecting protocols:

Have reviewed the information on cleaning and disinfecting surfaces.
Policies that specify when practitioners, staff and patients must wash their hands, and to have good hygiene practices.

Handwashing:

Upon entry to clinic.
Before and after treatment (both practitioner and patient).
Before and after taking payment (both staff and patient).
Prior to donning and immediately after removing masks.
Sink and sanitizer locations are visible and easily accessed.
Hand-washing protocols are posted.

Cleaning/Disinfecting:

All practitioners and staff practice consistent cleaning protocols.
Clean visibly soiled surfaces, followed by disinfection.
All high-touch surfaces in between patient treatments, regardless of appearance.
Linens (including blankets) single use only, then laundered in hot soapy water.
Frequently clean and disinfect common areas and high touch surfaces at least twice a day: light switches, cell phones, tablets, chairs, stools, table surfaces.
Frequently clean and disinfect at least three times per day: Handles of doors, cabinets, faucets, fridge, microwave, etc.
Electronic device keyboards, mice and phones; armrests of chairs; desk and table surfaces.
Treatment table, lotion bottles, assessment and adjustment tools after each patient.
Reception counter, including protective shield, after each patient.

Removed unnecessary items to simplify the cleaning process.
Ceased the use of thermophores, table warmers and other thermal agents.
Point of sale system with tap feature used for payment.
Receipt is emailed to patient.
Cleaning schedules posted with area, last completed and initials.
Cleaning and Disinfectants for Clinic Settings poster is posted.

Advising patients prior to arrival about our policies for the use of personal protective
equipment:

Practitioners/staff have been informed of the correct donning and doffing of masks.
Practitioners/staff wear a 3-layer mask at all times.
Patients must be wearing a mask upon arrival to the clinic.
Patients must be wearing a mask in the treatment room, unless they have a doctor’s note.

Practitioners have the right to refuse treatment if the patient denies wearing a mask.
Paper/disposable masks available for patient’s use if needed.
Gloves and goggles are available upon request.
Face shields are permitted but not recommended.

Providing fresh air in our practicing environment:

Ensuring preventative maintenance for HVAC is conducted (for example, regular filter changes and inspection of critical components).
Making sure the system is properly balanced, verifying that the system meets its design conditions for airflow, temperature, pressure drop noise and vibration.
Air purifiers in each treatment room.

Minimizing risk to all:

If practitioner/staff exhibits signs of respiratory illness, including cough, runny nose or fever, they will not provide in-person care/reception, and will immediately call 811 and follow their guidance.
Practitioner/staff may only return when the public health authority or doctor has cleared them for regular duties.

We make changes to our policies and procedures as necessary.

We know who to go to with health and safety concerns.

We have a training plan for new staff.

We have posted signage at the workplace, including occupancy limits and effective hygiene practices.

We have posted signage at the main entrance indicating who is restricted from entering the premises, including visitors and workers with symptoms.

We have posted this Covid-19 Safety Plan on our website and have printed copies available for staff and patients in the clinic.

We adapt as needs emerge and new information is available.

All communications to patients and colleagues are clear, shared by all, and consistent.