Staying connected
As of today, guidelines still restrict visitors from freely accessing our settings. We are doing everything we can to ensure that our residents can stay connected to their loved ones through this isolating time. We offer virtual visits that can be set up by our staff and we also are offering outdoor visits, following the State of Minnesota guidelines. All of these visits should be scheduled with staff in advance so that our staff can help facilitate the visit for our residents. We understand how difficult this is for family and friends and your help in keeping all of our residents safe by using the virtual and outdoor visits is truly appreciated.
If you would like to set up a virtual or outdoor visit, you can email stclareconnect@lsfhealth.org, or call 320-679-8322 to schedule time with your loved one.
The State of Minnesota released guidance on setting up Essential Caregiver visits on July 10th. We are reviewing the guidance and will update this information accordingly.
If you choose to participate in an outdoor visit with a resident at St. Clare’s, we want you to be aware of the following:
Outdoor visits will be arranged by prior appointments only.
We will require that you be screened for COVID-19 symptoms by answering a series of questions PRIOR to your visit. The screening form will be kept on file. Certain screening responses will result in the cancellation of the visit.
We are taking all the necessary, required measures to protect our residents and staff while we provide a safe space for socialization and visitation. We are following the guidance provided by the Minnesota Department of Health on requirements for visitation, which includes screening, PPE, infection control and staffing.
Please be patient with us as we implement these visits. As the virus is still being transmitted throughout our state, we may need to change visitation options based on a resident’s status of COVID-19, the overall status of COVID-19 in our setting, and surrounding community.
We may need to limit outdoor visitation due to weather.
Residents who are currently COVID-19 positive or are in a 14-day quarantine/observation period cannot participate in outdoor visits until transmission-based precautions are no longer required.
Residents and visitors must wear a face mask during the visit, unless medically contraindicated or unable to be tolerated. Children’s behavior must be controlled to adhere to the 6-foot distancing requirement.
Visits must be restricted to the defined visit area.
We reserve the right to refuse or suspend a visit if requirements are not followed. We would be happy to discuss our rationale supporting such a decision. You may also contact the Office of Ombudsman for Long-Term Care at 651-431-2555 or toll-free 800-657-3591.