VHA COVID-19 Operational Plan by Implementing Health Protection Levels to Enhance Safety of Veterans, Visitors and Employees

VHA COVID-19 Operational Plan by Implementing Health Protection Levels to Enhance Safety of Veterans, Visitors and Employees

 

ALBUQUERQUE, NEW MEXICO — Today, the New Mexico VA Health Care System is implementing COVID-19 Health Protection Levels as part VA’s consistent, nationwide approach for Veterans Health Administration (VHA) facilities to adjust COVID-19 safety protocols locally as needed.

The three VHA COVID-19 Health Protection Levels – low, medium, and high – align with CDC’s Community Transmission levels, which are based on new COVID cases and percentage of positive tests.

The VHA COVID-19 Health Protection Level will be updated as needed on Mondays. New Mexico VA Health Care System will show the rating from the following statuses, Low, Medium, High.

“Our local Veterans are resolute about receiving their care at our facility and we want to keep them safe during the ups and downs of COVID-19 community spread,” said Mr. Robert McKenrick, Executive Director. “Instead of increasing or decreasing access to care, safety protocols will be adjusted based on COVID-19 levels in the community.”

 Masks are required regardless of the level, but requirements for self-screening, visitation, and physical distancing vary:

 Low: (green)

1. Masks are required
2. Self-screening is required
3. Visitors are welcome
4. Physical distancing is not required

 Medium: (yellow)

1. Masks are required
2. Self-screening is required
3. Care partner welcome only
4. Physical distancing is not required

 High: (red)

1. Masks are required
2. Screenings will be performed by staff at the entrance
3. Care team-approved visitors only
4. Physical distancing is required

 Please visit New Mexico VA Health Care System or call 505-265-1711 for current protection levels before your next visit. If patients or visitors are heading to a VA facility in another county, they should check with that health facility to determine the facility’s VHA COVID-19 Health Protection Level.

 Visit www.va.gov/coronavirus-veteran-frequently-asked-questions/ for questions and answers regarding the VHA COVID-19 Health Protection Levels. For more information, please contact Paula Aragon or Ron Bassford at ABQPAO@va.gov or 505-265-1711 ext. 6495 or 6217.

 

 

 

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