Sanford Addiction Treatment Centers – COVID-19 Update
Sanford House at Cherry Street for Women
At Sanford Addiction Treatment Centers, we are all healthcare workers on the front lines, looking out for our patients every day. During these times of heightened stress and anxiety, we are continuing to provide a beacon of treatment and recovery for our clients within the new “normal” of the coronavirus. In close communication with internal medical professionals, we are monitoring the spread of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) and its impact on our community.
We are employing even more stringent protocols to protect our patients/clients and their loved ones. And we are approaching their safety as we always do – thoroughly and diligently.
Enhanced Procedures – COVID-19 Update
At Sanford, we are also following the recommendations of the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the World Health Organization, and the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services to monitor and keep up with the evolving pandemic. We have updated our protocols to include these specific instructions for the coronavirus.
- Together with our Admissions staff, we have revised our screening process for admissions to Sanford facilities. This includes questions about overseas travel, recent fevers and likely risk factors with potential clients and their loved ones/families. We repeat the revised screening process (updated daily/hourly)during medical evaluation and admission to a Sanford facility. Medical staff takes temperatures daily and before all admissions. We will not admit anyone posing a risk to our treatment centers.
- We have implemented telehealth assessments, individual therapy sessions and virtual options for to those who are ill or have been exposed to COVID-19. Current clients who are unable to enter the facility are receiving individual therapy sessions by phone.
- We are employing even more stringent protocols for hygiene and onsite cleanliness. This includes enhanced cleaning procedures and implementation of hospital-grade disinfectant on surfaces, doorknobs and in bathrooms. The kitchen staff is following disinfection procedures appropriate for COVID-19 in healthcare food settings.
Until further notice, all visitation to our residential clients is suspended.
Until further notice, all evening Family Program, Family Support Group, Alumni Group, and Women’s Support Group activities are suspended.
All Intensive Outpatient activities are now being conducted through individual telehealth phone sessions, and virtual IOP and other classes.
- All staff are required to be vigilant; stay home if sick or exposed to someone who is ill; wash hands frequently with warm water and soap; avoid touching the food they eat; and avoid touching the face, eyes, nose and mouth.
- All Sanford staff has been instructed on hand washing and hand sanitation, cough etiquette, as well as staff, client and visitor compliance with washing/sanitizing hands thoroughly. All in accordance with CDC guidelines. We have posted signs in treatment areas and residences explaining the importance of hand sanitation.
- Only authorized people are allowed to enter a Sanford facility. All outside deliveries and drop-offs are at designated areas (sign posted).
Before you enter a Sanford facility …
- Stay home when you are sick and avoid close contact with people who are sick. If you are not feeling well, or are in close contact with someone who is exhibiting flu-like symptoms, do not enter a Sanford facility.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth. And cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue and throw the tissue in the trash. If you do not have a tissue, cough or sneeze in the crook of your elbow – NOT in your hands. (WASH/DISINFECT your hands for at least 20 seconds after using the bathroom, before eating, and after blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing.)
- Clean and disinfect the things you touch frequently with a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
Watch for additional communications as we continue to educate, train and implement practices on preventing transmission of COVID-19 at Sanford.
Our operations will continue with extreme caution and awareness. And at Sanford, we will utilize all the new technology available to make sure we are connecting with and providing treatment to our clients.
For more information on COVID-19 safety measures:
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention – Coronavirus
Michigan Department of Health and Human Services- Coronavirus
