Frequently Asked Questions – COVID19 & Visiting the Home

1st February 2022

During this uncertain time of COVID19 and Visiting Rules and Regulations for entering into a RACF changing so frequently, we thought we would answer a few questions for you that are commonly asked here at the Home.

Frequently Asked Questions about COVID19 at The Willochra Home

Am I required to wear a face mask?

Yes. This is a protective barrier for infection between staff, visitors, and residents. It is also a requirement from the Government, as stated in the Emergency Directive for Residential Aged Care.

Do I need to be vaccinated to enter The Willochra Home?

Yes. All staff, visitors, contractors and suppliers are required to be vaccinated against the seasonal influenza, and COVID19. As the regulations for the COVID19 vaccination are frequently changing, please contact the Home for further clarification before your visit.

If I take my loved one out for the day, do they need to have a Rapid Antigen Test to re-enter the Home?

Whilst we are in this pandemic, it is important to have your loved one tested if they are socialising within the community. If you take your loved one to your home and everyone has been vaccinated, they may not require to be tested upon return. This is subject to change at the discretion of the Registered Nurse, Clinical Manager or Residential Care Manager.

If my loved one undertakes a COVID19 test, how will I know what their results are?

The NOK (Next of Kin) will be notified as soon as the results have become available from SA Pathology and the MO.

My loved one has not been vaccinated against COVID19. How do I arrange this?

The Willochra Home encourages all residents to be vaccinated against COVID19. There are a number of ways that you can ensure your loved one can be vaccinated:

– Contact your medical clinic and organise an appointment with your MO

– The Willochra Home organises COVID19 vaccination clinics with HCA (Health Care Australia). The Willochra Home will contact all NOK when this option is available, as there will be a consent form to be completed for your loved one.

I am from interstate and would like to visit my loved one. How do I arrange this with the Home, in line with the current regulations?

All visitors must be vaccinated against the seasonal influenza and COVID19. As the regulations for visiting a RACF (Residential Aged Care Facility) are changing frequently, we encourage interstate visitors to contact The Willochra Home at least 2 weeks before your intended visit to discuss the requirements for your entry. You may be required to produce evidence of a negative RAT or PCR, and wear full PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) upon your visit.

If you require any further information, please contact The Willochra Home on 8636 2320, or email administration@willochraagedcare.org.au

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