Visitor Policy and Coronavirus Information

 **** COVID – 19 Alert ****

January 26, 2023

Dear Residents and Families,

I would like to take this opportunity to update you on the current status of COVID-19 at Mount Carmel Care. We currently have one resident still testing positive, and no staff positive. We are testing both staff and residents frequently until we are at 5 days with no new positive resident cases, at which time residents will no longer require testing unless displaying signs and symptoms of COVID-19. Staff will return to their weekly testing routine (twice weekly for those staff who have not received the bivalent booster dose).

We have not been accepting new admissions since January 1, 2023, when the first cluster of COVID-19 cases were identified and will not do so until we have gone five days with no new resident cases.

Rooms of those on precautions are clearly marked with signage and a supply of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) at the entrance to the rooms. Housekeeping has been cleaning high touch surfaces frequently and infection control rounds are occurring daily to ensure staff demonstrate effective hand hygiene and use of PPE to reduce risk of spread.

All staff have had a primary series of the COVID-19 Vaccine and 79% have received the most recent available booster (bivalent) booster doses. All residents are vaccinated with their primary series and offered the Bivalent booster dose. 91% have had the dose.
Visitation has resumed back to normal, and we are happy to offer Facetime or Zoom visits if you so choose (please ask for Joy to arrange such visits). As a reminder, please refrain from visitation if you are feeling ill. We are happy to provide a rapid test for you at no charge upon request.

Group activities and social dining have resumed, and we are happy to see residents out and about once again.

Thank you for your continued support in protecting the health and safety of our residents, staff, and each other. Please feel free to contact the facility if you have any questions.

Warm Regards,
Jodi Ouimette, Administrator

January 22, 2023

Dear Residents and Families,

I would like to take this opportunity to update you on the current status of COVID-19 at Mount Carmel Care. We continue to experience new cases despite multiple efforts. We are currently testing both staff and residents daily. Today we identified 2 new resident cases and 1 new staff case. Our cumulative number of residents confirmed with COVID-19 since January 1, 2023 through today is 39, of whom 14 have been cleared as recovered. Staff cumulative is 13 with 6 of those 13 having recovered and returned to work. Many residents and staff have been asymptomatic and most who have been symptomatic have had mild to moderate cold symptoms. Treatment is available for those testing positive and each resident has been assessed for eligibility for treatment.

We have not been accepting new admissions since January 1, 2023 when the first cluster of COVID-19 cases were identified, and will not do so until we have gone at least a week with no new cases and most or all recovered.

Rooms of those on precautions are clearly marked with signage with a supply of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) at the entrance to the rooms. Housekeeping has been cleaning high touch surfaces frequently and infection control rounds are occurring daily to ensure staff demonstrate effective hand hygiene and use of PPE to reduce risk of spread.

We have been working daily with the Department of Public Health (DPH) and the Rapid Response Team was deployed by DPH to assist us with staffing as we have had some staff out with isolation due to COVID-19 and a need for increased staff to monitor our residents and meet resident needs quicker with the need to don and doff PPE each time entering a precaution room.

All staff have had a primary series of the COVID-19 Vaccine and booster doses. All residents have been offered the Bivalent booster dose and 91% have had the dose.

We encourage visits to be held or limited during this outbreak. We are happy to offer Facetime or Zoom visits (please ask for Joy to arrange such visits). As a reminder, please refrain from visitation if you are feeling ill. We are happy to provide a rapid test for you at no charge upon request.

Thank you for your continued support in protecting the health of our residents, staff, and each other. Please feel free to contact the facility if you have any questions.

Warm Regards,

Jodi Ouimette, Administrator

November 17, 2022

Dear Residents and Families,

I hope this letter finds you in good health and spirits.

We have been informed that a staff member, who last worked on Tuesday 11/15/22, has been diagnosed with COVID-19 today. This staff member worked on St. Louise. We do not have any positive residents or any other positive staff at this point. All residents and staff who encountered this staff member are being tested frequently over the next 7 days to ensure that there has not been any spread. We test our staff who are "up to date" with COVID-19 boosters weekly ("up to date" meaning that they have had the most recent bivalent vaccination booster) and twice weekly for those who have not received the bivalent booster vaccination for COVID-19.

As a reminder, please refrain from visitation if you are feeling ill. We are happy to provide a test for you at no charge upon request.

Thank you for your continued support in protecting the health of our residents, staff, and each other. Please feel free to contact the facility if you have any questions.

Warm Regards,
Jodi Ouimette, Administrator

October 3, 2022

Dear Residents and Families,

I hope this letter finds you in good health and spirits.

I am reaching out to notify you that we have a new case of COVID-19 in the facility, one staff member who worked on St. Luke's, last worked on Thursday 9/29/22. We do not have any positive residents or any other positive staff at this point. All residents who reside on St. Luke, as well as staff working on St. Luke, are being tested today to ensure that there has not been any spread. As of this morning, all residents tested negative as well as all staff working on St. Luke. Staff and residents will be tested again on Wednesday and Friday of this week. We test our staff at least weekly, but increase that testing when there are any positive cases.

As a reminder, please refrain from visitation if you are feeling ill. We are happy to provide a test for you at no charge upon request.

Thank you for your continued support in protecting the health of our residents, staff and each other. Please feel free to contact the facility if you have any questions.

Warm Regards,
Jodi Ouimette, Administrator

September 12, 2022

Dear Residents and Families,

I hope this letter finds you in good health and spirits as we continue through the summer.

I am reaching out to notify you that we have a new case of COVID-19 in the facility, one staff member had contact with 5 residents on Thursday 9/8/22 and tested positive late Friday evening following an exposure in the community. This was reported to us this morning. We do not have any positive residents at this point. All 5 residents were tested on this date and all negative. These residents will be tested again on Wednesday and Friday of this week. We test our staff at least weekly, but will increase our testing of staff who were in contact with this individual over the next week to identify any possibility of new cases.

As a reminder, please refrain from visitation if you are feeling ill. We are happy to provide a test for you at no charge upon request.

Thank you for your continued support in protecting the health of our residents, staff and each other. Please feel free to contact the facility if you have any questions.

Warm Regards,
Jodi Ouimette, Administrator

August 31, 2022

Dear Residents and Families,

I hope this letter finds you in good health and spirits as we continue through the summer.

I am pleased to notify you that the facility is clear from COVID-19. The recent case of COVID-19 has since recovered, and we do not have any positive staff or residents at this point. We have performed frequent testing of the residents on the affected unit (St. Louise) and increased frequency of testing staff, in accordance with current Department of Public Health guidance, with no additional cases identified.

We continue to test our staff at least weekly (twice weekly for any staff eligible for a 2 ^nd booster who has not received a 2^nd booster). We also test staff who present with any symptoms of COVID-19, identified on initial screen-in when arriving for his/her shift or if symptoms develop during a shift.

As a reminder, please refrain from visitation if you are feeling ill. We are happy to provide a test for you at no charge upon request.

Thank you for your continued support in protecting the health of our residents, staff, and each other. Please feel free to contact the facility if you have any questions.

Warm Regards,

Jodi Ouimette, Administrator

August 23, 2022

Dear Residents and Families,     

I hope this letter finds you in good health and spirits as we continue through the summer.

I am reaching out to notify you that we have a new case of COVID-19 in the facility, one resident who resides on St. Louise. We do not have any positive staff or other residents at this point. We test our staff at least weekly but will increase our testing of staff over the next week to identify any possibility of new cases. We will also be testing all residents who have not been positive in the past 90-days every 3 days for the next week.

As a reminder, please refrain from visitation if you are feeling ill. We are happy to provide a test for you at no charge upon request.

Thank you for your continued support in protecting the health of our residents, staff and each other. Please feel free to contact the facility if you have any questions.

Warm Regards,
Jodi Ouimette, Administrator

June 28, 2022

Dear Mount Carmel Care Center Residents, Families and Loved Ones:

No residents or staff are COVID positive as of today.

All affected residents and staff are now considered “COVID recovered”. We will continue weekly surveillance testing of staff and contractors, also voluntary COVID antigen testing will be offered to all families and visitors.

Visitation, group dining and activities:
Our plan to re-open dining rooms weekdays for resident breakfast and lunch begins today. Also we will re-start group activities, it will be great to get outside!

In the June 10 Memo from the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, visits may resume, with masks and social distancing. In addition, they require that staff are “readily available” for residents.

To support this requirement, we have obtained walkie-talkies which will be available at the reception desk when you arrive. Please use these to communicate any urgent needs during your visit. Also, we appreciate your return of these hand held devices when you are leaving so that they can be properly disinfected and made available for your use in future visits!

Changes in Facility Leadership Jodi Ouimette has accepted the position of Administrator at Mount Carmel Care Center, effective July 18th. Jodi comes with a wealth of experience, both as an Administrator and has “Carmelite Experience” having worked at St. Patrick’s Manor in Framingham in the past. Please join me in welcoming her as the facility leader, who will continue the Mission of service to the Aged and Infirm here in Lenox and the surrounding communities.

I want to humbly thank you for all your prayers and support over my past seven years here at Mount Carmel Care Center. I will be continuing the Mission working for the Carmelite System on some special projects for the remainder of this year. The Carmelite Sisters and System Office have been very kind and supportive for all of us during my tenure; I am certain that this will continue. We are blessed!

Thank you,

George Mercier, Administrator

June 1, 2022

Dear Mount Carmel Care Center Residents, Families and Loved Ones:

Three residents have tested positive for COVID within the past 7 days.

All affected residents have been placed in isolation with staff providing care in full Personal Protective Equipment. Symptoms range from low grade fever to scratchy throat, sniffles, and sneezes. These are considered to be “mild” in nature, and all affected residents have been offered either oral or infused anti-viral treatment to mitigate the potential for further symptoms. At the recommendation of MA Epidemiology, we are testing residents every three days to provide close monitoring of any further spread.

There are no new cases of staff COVID reported in the past week, and we continue weekly staff testing per our protocol.

Our plan to re-open dining rooms and re-start group activities has been placed on “hold”. We will evaluate this situation daily and keep everyone in the loop.

Even with this news, it does appear that we are nearing the end of this most recent outbreak, and should be able to return to “normal” shortly.

For now, the guidance on in-person visitation remains in place:

We recommend using remote visitation options such as Facetime, Skype, Google Duo, etc. There are phones in all resident rooms. If you do plan an in-person visit, we ask that you limit visitors to no more than 2 per room so that you can maintain social distancing. We have Rapid COVID testing, N-95 and procedure masks for your use as needed.

We know this is difficult information for all concerned. Thank you for your patience, prayers and support,

George Mercier, Administrator

May 23, 2022 

Dear Mount Carmel Care Center Residents, Families and Loved Ones:

There have been no new cases of COVID – 19 since May 18^th.

35 residents and 24 staff tested positive for COVID 19 between May 9 and the 18^th.  There were 14 residents who received anti-viral treatment by infusion and many more who were given the oral medication with good effect. We are also saddened by the loss of four facility residents during this period.

We want to thank you for your prayers, patience, and support during this recent outbreak.  The Massachusetts Department of Public Health has been very helpful in providing temporary help through their “Rapid Response Team” though May 22^nd.  Many of our staff will be cleared to return to work this week.  We are cautiously optimistic that visits, dining, and activities can slowly return to “normal” soon.

During this period there have been many staff “stepping up” to offer support, outside of their usual duties for COVID testing, meal delivery, calling and communicating and offering family support during end-of-life care.  These acts of kindness are a true sign of our mission and I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to the team for their “all hands on deck” participation in the care of our residents.

For now, the guidance on in-person visitation remains in place:

We recommend using remote visitation options such as Facetime, Skype, Google Duo, etc.  There are phones in all resident rooms.  If you do plan an in-person visit, we ask that you limit visitors to no more than 2 per room so that you can maintain social distancing.  We have Rapid COVID testing, N-95 and procedure masks for your use as needed. 

As we proceed through this week we will know more. 

We know this is difficult information for all concerned.  Thank you for your patience, prayers and support,

George Mercier, Administrator

May 13, 2022

Dear Mount Carmel Care Center Residents, Families and Loved Ones:

• Twenty-five (25) Residents have tested positive for COVID – 19
• In addition, we reported Sixteen (16) staff positive for COVID – 19
We have reported this information to the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, Epidemiology and to our local Board of Health. We will adhere to the CDC guidelines in the management of COVID:
• Handwashing following all resident or staff contact.
• N-95 masks for all staff and contractors entering the resident care areas.
• 6 – foot social distancing required.
• Restrictions to allow for affected residents to be quarantined, including the suspension of group activities and dining.
• For isolated residents we will be wearing full Personal Protective Equipment including Gowns, Gloves and N-95 masks.

Visitation:
We strongly recommend using remote visitation options such as Facetime, Skype, Google Duo, etc. There are phones in all resident rooms. If you do plan an in-person visit we ask that you limit visitors to no more than 2 per room so that you can maintain social distancing. We have Rapid COVID testing, N-95 and procedure masks for your use as needed.

These next few days will have the highest potential for the virus to spread. We are providing the latest prescription treatment for all affected residents.

We know this is difficult information for all concerned. We need your help to “stop the spread” once again. Thank you for your patience, prayers and support,

George Mercier, Administrator

May 10, 2022

Dear Mount Carmel Care Center Residents, Families and Loved Ones:

• Nine (9) Residents have tested positive for COVID – 19
• In addition, we reported six (6) staff positive for COVID – 19
We have reported this information to the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, Epidemiology and to our local Board of Health. We will adhere to the CDC guidelines in the management of COVID:
• Handwashing following all resident or staff contact.
• N-95 masks for all staff and contractors entering the resident care areas.
• 6 – foot social distancing required.
• Cohorting all affected residents on the St. Luke Unit.
• Restrictions to allow for affected residents to be quarantined, including the suspension of group activities and dining.
• For isolated residents we will be wearing full Personal Protective Equipment including Gowns, Gloves and N-95 masks.

Visitation:
We recommend using remote visitation options such as Facetime, Skype, Google Duo, etc. There are phones in all resident rooms. If you do plan an in-person visit we ask that you limit visitors to no more than 2 per room so that you can maintain social distancing. We have Rapid COVID testing, N-95 and procedure masks for your use as needed.
These next few days will have the highest potential for the virus to spread. We are providing the latest prescription treatment for all affected residents.

We know this is difficult information for all concerned. We need your help to “stop the spread” once again.

Thank you for your patience, prayers and support,

George Mercier, Administrator

May 9, 2022

Dear Mount Carmel Care Center Residents, Families and Loved Ones:

The Easter season is upon us!  We will be getting warmer very soon and we have already opened the patio.  There is an additional outdoor space on the grounds with a new concrete pad and canopy, which already has been set up for the summer months.

The latest news:

There are no residents testing positive for COVID-19 at present.  However we continue to have a small number of staff who have been affected.

• We are following the MA Department of Public Health Epidemiology protocols.
• We remain vigilant using surveillance testing with both rapid test and the PCR (molecular) testing.
• Visitors will continue to be screened and offered Binax COVID testing.
• There have been no new cases of Influenza over the course of the past three weeks, but we remain vigilant.

Visitation:

1. Recognizing the special needs of our residents, we will maintain our infection control practices helping to “stop the spread”.
2. All visitors must wear a facility-provided mask and maintain social distancing when in the building, regardless of vaccination status. COVID negative and vaccinated residents may have visits by fully vaccinated family members in the resident’s room if the roommate is fully vaccinated, also tests negative for COVID 19 and is not immune compromised.
3. We will continue testing for COVID – 19 and keep you updated with any changes.

This week May 8 – 14^th is National Nursing Home Week. 

We will take time to honor the shared commitment of our caregivers and the residents we serve with several events including food, raffles and fun activities. Please see Joy Morin in Activities for more information.

We pray that you and your family remain happy and healthy!

Sincerely,

George Mercier, Administrator

April 4, 2022

Dear Mount Carmel Care Center Residents, Families and Loved Ones:

I hope that you and your family are well.  Spring is upon us, and the promise of warmer weather will soon bring the chance to get back outdoors!

The latest news:

There are 2 resident cases of COVID-19 at present. 

• We are following the MA Department of Public Health Epidemiology protocols.
• We remain vigilant using surveillance testing with both rapid test and the PCR (molecular) testing for both residents and staff.
• Visitors will continue to be screened and offered Binax COVID testing.

Influenza “A” also present at this time.

• Several staff and residents have tested positive for Influenza “A” this past week and we are taking all necessary precautions to prevent further spread by following CDC and MA Department of Public Health guidance.
• Lab work and “Tamiflu” for all eligible residents has been ordered.

The trend toward resolving these concerns is promising, your prayers are appreciated!

Visitation:

1. All visitors must wear a facility-provided mask and maintain social distancing when in the building, regardless of vaccination status. COVID negative and vaccinated residents may have visits by fully vaccinated family members in the resident’s room if the roommate is fully vaccinated, also tests negative for COVID 19 and is not immune compromised.
2. We will continue testing for COVID – 19, and influenza until resolved.

Please feel free to contact us with any questions you may have. 

We appreciate your patience and support as we continue to receive guidance from MA Department of Public Health and CDC. Feel free to call if you have questions.

Sincerely,

George Mercier, Administrator

March 23, 2022

Dear Mount Carmel Care Center Residents, Families and Loved Ones:

We are pleased to announce that Fr. Steve Montesanti will be saying Mass the first Monday of every month at 10:00 AM starting on April 4, 2022. Father Steve is the Pastor at Sacred Heart Church located on Elm Street in Pittsfield.

Also beginning April 1, we will resume group dining for fully vaccinated residents in the Social Dining room and in the Assisted Dining room on each unit. Starting out during the weekdays for Breakfast and Lunch residents will be able to be seated together. It is nice to see this progress!

There are NO staff or resident cases of COVID-19 at present.
• Berkshire County’s “positivity rate” as of March 16th has fallen to 2.08%.
• We remain vigilant using surveillance testing with both rapid test and the PCR (molecular) testing for both residents and staff.
• Visitors will continue to be screened and offered Binax COVID testing.
• Group Activities for residents have resumed with good participation.

Visitation:
1. All visitors must wear a facility-provided mask and maintain social distancing when in the building, regardless of vaccination status. COVID negative and vaccinated residents may have visits by fully vaccinated family members in the resident’s room if the roommate is fully vaccinated, also tests negative for COVID 19 and is not immune compromised.
2. If there are respiratory symptoms among any residents testing negative for COVID – 19, we will continue testing for influenza as well.

We appreciate your patience and support as we continue to receive guidance from MA Department of Public Health and CDC. Feel free to call if you have questions.

Sincerely,

George Mercier, Administrator

March 3, 2022

Dear Mount Carmel Care Center Residents, Families and Loved Ones:
As we enter the Lenten season and take time to reflect, I want to personally thank everyone for their support and cooperation. We are seeing more light at the end of the COVID tunnel!
Please join me in welcoming Mount Carmel’s new Director of Nursing – Jessica Lescarbeau! Jessica comes to us with a wealth of Long Term and Post-Acute experience and will be capably leading our clinical services team.
More good news! There are NO staff or resident cases of COVID-19 at present.

• Berkshire County’s “positivity rate” as of March 2 has fallen to 3.68%.
• The COVID “incidence rate” has also fallen which is also positive.
• We remain vigilant using surveillance testing with both rapid test and the PCR (molecular) testing for both residents and staff.
• Visitors will continue to be screened and offered Binax COVID testing.
• We continue frequent communication with the Department of Public Health and the Tri-Town Health Department.

Visitation:
1. Everyone must wear a facility-provided mask and maintain social distancing when in the building, including residents, families, anyone visiting and staff regardless of vaccination status. COVID negative and vaccinated residents may have visits by fully vaccinated family members in the resident’s room if the roommate is fully vaccinated, also tests negative for COVID 19 and is not immune compromised.
2. We continue to encourage visitation via Facetime, Zoom, Google Duo and we have facility paid telephones installed in every resident room.
3. If there are respiratory symptoms among any residents testing negative for COVID – 19, we will now also be testing for influenza

We appreciate your patience and support as we continue to receive guidance from MA Department of Public Health and CDC. Feel free to call if you have questions.
Sincerely,

George Mercier, Administrator

January 26, 2022

Dear Families,

As the Commonwealth continues to manage the pandemic, and the presence of the highly transmissible Omicron variant that has spread across Massachusetts and the country, we are providing guidance to families to help keep your loved ones residing in long-term care facilities safe during visits. Of course, the very best way to minimize COVID-19 risk for you, your loved ones and friends is to get vaccinated and boosted and to not visit if you are not feeling well. As a reminder, the vaccines are effective against severe illness, hospitalization, and death.

People who reside in long-term care facilities are uniquely vulnerable to COVID-19 infection and may have health conditions that place them at a higher risk of becoming sick, or even severely ill, with COVID-19 despite being fully vaccinated.

We strongly recommend that you please follow these recommendations when visiting with your loved one in order to protect yourself, our long-term care residents, and their caregivers.

1. Get vaccinated and boosted. Individuals five years of age and older are eligible for COVID-19 vaccines and those 12 years and older are eligible for vaccine boosters. The best protection is to get vaccinated.

2. Get tested prior to your visit regardless of your vaccination status. Take advantage of the free, rapid point-of-care testing our long-term care facilities are offering prior to visiting your loved one in a long-term care facility. These tests are very accurate at determining if an individual is positive and in the contagious period of COVID-19 and can help prevent the spread of COVID-19 to your loved one. It takes only a few minutes to add another level of protection.

3. Follow all COVID-19 protocols in place while visiting your loved one. These include:
If you are sick or have COVID-like symptoms, do not visit your loved one.

If you have recently been in close contact with someone who has COVID-19, you should get tested and/or consider postponing your visit.
Wear a well -fitting facemask the entire time you are visiting your loved one.

Perform hand-hygiene before your visit, prior to and after any physical contact with your loved one, and upon leaving the building.
Visit your loved one in accordance with the long-term care facility's policy. This may mean your visit takes place in a designated visitation area or your loved one's room depending on the circumstances at the facility.

Go directly to your loved one's room or designated visitation area upon entry and directly exit the building after the visit. Do not visit other parts of the building or other residents.

The latest guidance on visitation for long-term care facilities can be found on the Department of Public Health's website. https://www.mass.qov/info-details/covid-19-public-health-quidanceand-directives#health-care-orqanizations-

In addition to discussing with your loved one's facility, families of loved ones in long-term care settings can contact the Nursing Home Family Resource at 617-660-5399 for additional information.

Thank you for making the safety and well-being of your loved one and all of our long-term care residents a priority as we continue our efforts to combat the COVID-19 virus.

Sincerely,
Marylou Sudders

January 21, 2022

One Mount Carmel Care Center resident has tested positive for COVID 19 this week.

• This resident has been placed in isolation until medically cleared.

• We remain vigilant using surveillance testing with both rapid test and the PCR (molecular) testing for both residents and staff.

• Visitors will continue to be screened and offered Binax COVID testing.

• We also have had 4 staff persons test positive for COVID. All were done prior to working with residents. Affected staff will remain in isolation until medically cleared to return to work.

• We continue frequent communication with the Department of Public Health and the Tri-Town Health Department.
Visitation:

1. Everyone must wear a facility-provided mask and maintain social distancing when in the building, including residents, families, anyone visiting and staff regardless of vaccination status. COVID negative and vaccinated residents may have visits by fully vaccinated family members in the resident’s room if the roommate is fully vaccinated, also tests negative for COVID 19 and is not immune compromised.

2. All visitors – please remember no more than 2 visitors at a time; if you wish to have more people, please coordinate with our Activities Department at extension 114 to schedule a “common area” room to allow for proper 6-foot social distancing.

3. We encourage visitation via Facetime, Zoom, Google Duo and we have facility paid telephones installed in every resident room.

4. If there are respiratory symptoms among the residents testing negative for COVID – 19, we will now be testing for influenza

We appreciate your patience and support as we continue to receive guidance from MA Department of Public Health and CDC. Feel free to call if you have questions.

Sincerely,
George Mercier, Administrator

January 11, 2022

Dear Mount Carmel Care Center Residents, Families and Loved Ones:

Mount Carmel Care Center residents have tested negative for COVID 19.

• All residents have tested negative for COVID – 19 at this time.
• We continue frequent communication with the Department of Public Health and the Tri-Town Health Department.
• We remain vigilant using surveillance testing with both rapid test and the PCR (molecular) testing for both residents and staff.
• Visitors will continue to be screened and offered Binax (rapid) COVID testing.

Visitation:

1. Everyone must wear a mask and maintain social distancing when in the facility, including residents, families, anyone visiting and staff regardless of vaccination status. Fully vaccinated residents may have visits by fully vaccinated family members in the resident’s room if the roommate is fully vaccinated and not immune compromised.

2. All visitors – please remember no more than 2 visitors at a time; if you wish to have more people, please coordinate with our Activities Department at extension 114 to schedule a “common area” room to allow for proper 6-foot social distancing.

3. We encourage visitation via Facetime, Zoom, Google Duo and we have facility paid telephones installed in every resident room.

4. If there are respiratory symptoms among the residents testing negative for COVID – 19, we will now be testing for influenza

We appreciate your patience and support as we continue to receive guidance from MA Department of Public Health and CDC. Feel free to call if you have questions.

Sincerely,

George Mercier, Administrator

December 27, 2021

Dear Mount Carmel Care Center Residents, Families and Loved Ones:

Mount Carmel Care Center residents have tested negative for COVID 19.
• Both residents who had tested positively have been medically cleared and are now considered “COVID recovered”- out of quarantine.
• We continue frequent communication with the Department of Public Health and the Tri-Town Health Department.
• We remain vigilant using surveillance testing with both rapid test and the PCR (molecular) testing for both residents and staff.
• Visitors will continue to be screened and offered Binax (rapid) COVID testing.
Visitation:

We appreciate everyone’s patience during this COVID outbreak! It’s just the beginning of winter and we know this will continue to be a challenge now that we are all indoors with the cold weather. Please continue to follow these guidelines when visiting:
1. Everyone must wear a mask and maintain social distancing when in the facility, including residents, families, anyone visiting and staff regardless of vaccination status.
2. All visitors – please remember no more than 2 visitors at a time; if you wish to have more people, please coordinate with our Activities Department at extension 114 to schedule a “common area” room to allow for proper 6-foot social distancing.
3. We encourage visitation via Facetime, Zoom, Google Duo and we have facility paid telephones installed in every resident room.

Wishing you and your family a Healthy, Happy New Year in 2022!

Respectfully,
George Mercier, Administrator

December 17, 2021

Dear Mount Carmel Care Center Residents, Families and Loved Ones:

Mount Carmel Care Center has had two residents test positive for COVID-19.

• Both residents have been isolated, and neither have symptoms.
• We have notified the Department of Public Health and the Tri-
  Town Health Department.
• There are additional staff being deployed by the Massachusetts “Rapid Response Team” beginning today.
• We have increased surveillance testing with both rapid test and the PCR (molecular) testing of residents and staff.
• Visitors will continue to be screened and offered Binax (rapid) COVID testing.

Visitation:

1. Residents who have tested positive will not have visitors until medically cleared.
2. Everyone must wear a mask and maintain social distancing when in the facility, including residents, families, anyone visiting and staff regardless of vaccination status.
3. We encourage visitation via Facetime, Zoom, Google Duo.
4. All visitors – please remember no more than 2 visitors at a time; if you wish to have more people, please coordinate with our Activities Department at extension 114 to schedule a “common area” room to allow for proper 6-foot social distancing.

As a reminder, Mount Carmel also offers Binax (rapid) testing at each visit, and we also appreciate it if you let us know your vaccination status when you visit.

As we approach the Christmas Season, we wish everyone health, happiness, and love.

Respectfully,

George Mercier, Administrator

November 26, 2021

Dear Mount Carmel Care Center Residents, Families and Loved Ones:

We hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving! This brief update focuses on clarifying several points, so I will be brief and to the point:

Visitation Update: The Massachusetts Department of Public Health updated the in-facility visitation guidance.

1. Residents and visitors may not eat together in the facility.

2. Everyone must wear a mask when in the facility, including residents, families, anyone visiting and staff.

3. During the winter months, we have designated the main entrance for everyone to enter the building, be screened and use hand sanitizer prior to going onto the units, and prior to leaving the resident’s room.

4. Please leave resident room doors open. Our “air-handling” system is designed to provide fresh air in the facility which reduces the opportunity for COVID transmission.

5. When visiting in the resident’s room, please draw the cubicle curtain during each visit. Use the cubicle curtain for privacy as needed.

6. All visitors – please remember no more than 2 visitors at a time; if you wish to have more people, please coordinate with our Activities Department at extension 114 to schedule a “common area” room to allow for proper 6-foot social distancing.

As a reminder, Mount Carmel also offers Binax (rapid) testing at each visit, and we also appreciate it if you let us know your vaccination status when you visit.

As we approach the Christmas Season, we wish everyone health, happiness, and love. Let us know if there is anything we can do to make the season bright!

Respectfully,
George Mercier, Administrator

November 22, 2021

Hello everyone –

Happy Thanksgiving from all of us here at Mount Carmel Care Center!

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health revised Long Term Care facility visitation guidance today. Here’s a summary of that direction:

Please let me know if you have any questions or concerns, and thank you for your continued support! 

George Mercier, Administrator

November 19, 2021

Dear Families,
As we enter into this holiday season during this phase of the COVID-19 pandemic in
Massachusetts and across the country, we are providing this guidance to families on
celebrating Thanksgiving and winter holidays with your loved ones who reside in a
congregate setting including a nursing home, rest home, assisted living residence or group
home. The best way to minimize COVID-19 risk and keep your family and friends safe this
holiday season is to get vaccinated and to avoid holiday gatherings if you are not well. The
safest way to celebrate is at home, with the people you live with.

There are important considerations when planning celebrations with a loved one who lives in a congregate setting. Many people living in congregate settings are uniquely vulnerable to COVID-19 and may have health conditions putting them at a higher risk of becoming sick, or even severely ill, with COVID-19.

There are a number of ways to safely celebrate the holidays with your loved one. Due to
continued COVID-19 transmission across the state and country, we suggest that you
consider the following recommendations from the CDC to enjoy holiday traditions and
protect your health and the health of your loved one:

• Everyone five years and older is now eligible for vaccines. The best protection is to get
vaccinated.
• For individuals not fully vaccinated, please wear a well -fitting mask when indoors in a
public setting.
• If you are sick or have COVID-like symptoms, do not attend a holiday gathering.
• If you have COVID-like symptoms or have been recently in close contact with someone
who has COVID-19, please get tested.

Guidelines on Visits and Travel:

All in-person visits and off-sites must follow established existing guidance and protocols.
Please check the latest visitation guidance for long-term care facilities, ALRs, and
congregate care settings and contact your loved one’s residence if there are any questions or making off-site arrangements.

Prior to any in-person visit, all participants should screen themselves for COVID-19
symptoms and are encouraged to get a COVID-19 test. Some facilities may offer testing
and loved ones are encouraged to request it, if available. Please check Mass.gov/GetTested for locations.

If you are considering traveling for a holiday or event, visit CDC’s Travel page to help
you decide what is best for you and your family. Everyone, even individuals who are fully vaccinated, is required to wear a mask on public transportation and follow international
travel recommendations.

Additional Resources:

In addition to discussing with your loved one’s facility or residence, there are resources
available to discuss how to safely celebrate with your loved one. Families of loved ones in
long-term care settings, including nursing homes, rest homes and assisted living
residences, can contact the Nursing Home Family Resource at 617-660-5399.
Families of loved ones in other congregate settings should reach out to their loved one’s case manager, social worker, or service coordinator for additional support.

We hope that you and your loved ones have a safe and healthy holiday season.

Sincerely,
Marylou Sudders

November 16, 2021

Dear Mount Carmel Care Center Residents, Families and Loved Ones:

First, I want to thank all those who sponsored our staff Christmas Party. Through your generosity our employees will be able to bring a guest to the festivities without any additional cost to them. This is a wonderful statement of support for the hard-working team at Mount Carmel Care Center and it is greatly appreciated – Thank You!!!

Visitation Update:  The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services has updated Nursing Home Visitation.

“Visitation can be conducted through different means based on a facility’s structure and residents’ needs, such as in resident rooms, dedicated visitation spaces, and outdoors. Regardless of how visits are conducted, certain core principles and best practices reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission:

Core Principles of COVID-19 Infection Prevention

• Visitors who have a positive viral test for COVID-19, symptoms of COVID-19, or currently meet the criteria for quarantine, should not enter the facility. Facilities should screen all who enter for these visitation exclusions.
• Hand hygiene (use of alcohol-based hand rub is preferred)
• Face covering or mask (covering mouth and nose) and physical distancing at least six feet between people, in accordance with CDC guidance
• Instructional signage throughout the facility and proper visitor education on COVID- 19 signs and symptoms, infection control precautions, other applicable facility practices (e.g., use of face covering or mask, specified entries, exits and routes to designated areas, hand hygiene)
• Cleaning and disinfecting high-frequency touched surfaces in the facility often, and designated visitation areas after each visit
• Appropriate staff use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
• Effective cohorting of residents (e.g., separate areas dedicated to COVID-19 care)
• Resident and staff testing conducted as required.”

If you plan to have more than two visitors at a time, we ask that you work with the staff to arrange a visit in one of our common areas to maintain proper social distancing. (Dining room, library, assisted dining room, etc.). Everyone visiting will still be screened for COVID symptoms prior to facility entrance.

Effectively this change allows for in-person visitation at your convenience without restricting the time or length of your visit, as long as you abide by the Infection Prevention guidelines above.  Please let us know if you have any questions! Thank you for your continued patience as we continue our work to keep everyone safe.

Respectfully,

George Mercier, Administrator

November 8, 2021

Dear Administrator,

Previously, the Department of Public Health, Division of Health Care Facility Licensure and Certification (the "Department") notified you that in accordance with the November 5, 2020, order entitled lmplementation of Order of the Commissioner of Public Health Regarding Control of COVID-19 in Long-Term Care Facilities" and updated guidance issued on June 14, 2021 by the Department, the
Department was imposing a limitation on all new admissions on Mount Carmel Care Center (the "Facility") until the Facility took corrective action, and was determined to be in substantial compliance as a result of a Focused Infection Control Survey.

As the Department has completed a Focused Infection Control Survey at the Facility and found that the Facility was in substantial compliance with requirements related to implementing proper infection prevention and control practices to prevent the development and transmission of COVID-19, the Department is lifting the limitation on admissions imposed on the Facility.

Please note that long term care facilities that are identified as being out of compliance with the requirements detailed in the Department's November 5, 2020, order and guidance will be subject to a freeze on admissions. We urge you to ensure that your Facility continues to comply with the Department's guidance to mitigate the risk and protect the health and safety of residents and staff with regard to COVID 19.

Limitation on Admissions Lifted Effective November 5, 2021 

Should you have any questions, please contact Walter Mackie at Walter.Mackie@Mass.Gov,
Sincerely,

Stephen Davis
Acting Director

Action update:

• As of November 2, 2021 the following actions remain in effect at Mount Carmel Care Center.
• On November 2, the facility was notified that the Infection Control Plan of Correction was Approved. Until we are notified by MA DPH the “limitation on admissions” remains in effect.

We will keep everyone posted.

1. Mount Carmel Care Center must limit new admissions with the exception of residents who are re-admitted following a medical leave and will continue to do so until the Department of Public Health determines the Facility has implemented effective and sustainable infection control practices on an ongoing basis. We will continue to follow CDC and MA DPH guidance in our Infection Control Practices.
2. The facility must share steps they are taking to address the reason for the admission freeze and when they anticipate the issues will be addressed. The facility Administrator and Infection Preventionist will meet weekly to ensure that a minimum of 90% of individuals working at least one shift at the facility are tested each week as required. This verified data will be submitted to the Massachusetts Center for Health Information and Analysis weekly as required.
3. The facility must provide a contact person in the facility that residents or families can reach out to. Please reach out to me if you have any questions at the phone number below or via email at gmercier@mcccl.org.
4. Must update the resident, families and resident representatives no less than once per week while the admissions freeze is in place. I will be writing an update letter which will be discussed directly with our residents, posted to our website mountcarmelcare.org and sent to you via email, and we will call anyone without electronic access. This will be done weekly.

Thank you for your continued prayers and support,
George Mercier, Administrator

Mount Carmel Care Center Written Removal Plan and Allegation of Compliance

This plan of correction is written in response to the “Limitation on Admissions” letter from the MA Department of Public Health issued to Mount Carmel Care Center (hereinafter “the facility”) on October 19, 2021, due to the percentage of staff, students, vendors and contractors being tested weekly falling below the required 90% threshold. The measures put into place and systemic changes include but are not limited to:

1. Weekly meeting between the Administrator, HR Director, and Infection Control Nurse (ICN) to validate and verify all persons who worked at the facility in the reporting timeframe specified in the CHIA report.
2. ICN will maintain records of persons testing for report to CHIA each week.
3. Weekly COVID PCR testing will be conducted by the Infection Control Nurse/designee and meet or exceed the 90% of all those employees, students, contractors, and vendors who provide on-site services to facility residents. The Administrator and ICN will review and validate the data together prior to reporting to CHIA. Reports will be submitted weekly as required.
4. QAPI measures will ensure proper and timely communication with all those working at the facility to assure compliance with testing requirements. Staff variance to expected testing compliance will be referred to the Administrator for corrective action.
5. Any staff person testing positive for COVID 19 will not return to the facility until medically cleared to do so.
6. Mount Carmel Care Center will follow all COVID policies, procedures, MA DPH and CDC guidance.

• Facility staff will continue diligent monitoring of all residents, resident representatives, staff, and visitors to continue to control for potential COVID exposure. Appropriate interventions and reporting will be conducted consistent with MA DPH epidemiology and all applicable guidance, in consultation with the facility infection control nurse.

We allege compliance as of October 22, 2021.

Respectfully Submitted,

George Mercier, Administrator

Action update:

• On October 19, 2021 we received notice From the Massachusetts Department of Public Health of a “Limitation of Admissions” imposed at Mount Carmel Care Center due to two consecutive weeks of COVID testing less than 90% of all staff working at least one shift during that week. (86% 09-30-21 to 10-07-21 and 88% 10-07-21 to 10-14-21 respectively).
• This notice is in direct response to the requirement of the Department of Public Health letter to Mount Carmel Care Center dated 10-19-21.

1. Mount Carmel Care Center must limit new admissions with the exception of residents who are re-admitted following a medical leave and will continue to do so until the Department of Public Health determines the Facility has implemented effective and sustainable infection control practices on an ongoing basis. We will continue to follow CDC and MA DPH guidance in our Infection Control Practices.
2. The facility must share steps they are taking to address the reason for the admission freeze and when they anticipate the issues will be addressed. The facility Administrator and Infection Preventionist will meet weekly to ensure that a minimum of 90% of individuals working at least one shift at the facility are tested each week as required. This verified data will be submitted to the Massachusetts Center for Health Information and Analysis weekly as required.
3. The facility must provide a contact person in the facility that residents or families can reach out to. Please reach out to me if you have any questions at the phone number below or via email at gmercier@mcccl.org.
4. Must update the resident, families and resident representatives no less than once per week while the admissions freeze is in place. I will be writing an update letter which will be discussed directly with our residents, posted to our website mountcarmelcare.org and sent to you via email, and we will call anyone without electronic access. This will be done weekly.

Thank you for your continued prayers and support,

George Mercier, Administrator

Mount Carmel Care Center

320 Pittsfield Road

Lenox, MA 01240

413.637.2660 extension 115

October 5, 2021

Dear Mount Carmel Care Center Residents, Families and Loved Ones:

Visitation Update : 

We recognize the social and emotional needs of our residents and their loved ones.  In that light we are revising our visitation practices as we have no active COVID 19 cases in the facility currently. Please remember with an average age of 89 years old, all of our residents are “at risk” as the immune system changes and is less effective with age.

The good news: If you are fully vaccinated, you do not need to schedule your in-person visit.  To protect all concerned the following requirements will remain in place for all visits:

• “Visiting hours” please arrive between 10:00 AM to 6:30 PM weekdays; 10:00 AM to 4:30 PM weekends.
• No more than 2 visitors at a time.
• You Must Wear a Mask at all times during your visit, maintain social distancing, and use hand sanitizer upon entering and exiting the building.
• All visitors will be screened at the front door and be asked to go outside to the Gazebo entrance to enter for their visit. We will give you dated bracelet to show that you have been screened. 
• Upon entering the building, please go directly to the room where you will be visiting. We continue efforts to “stop the spread” of the corona virus, so please no wandering into other rooms or areas.
• It is very helpful if you provide us with your vaccination card, and this will expedite your in-person visit.
• We are offering a no-cost “rapid test” at the time of the visit. Results “on the spot” within 15 minutes.
• Unvaccinated visits must be scheduled (if a time slot is available) no less than 24 hours in advance, as staff must be “immediately available” social distancing and personal protective equipment must be worn throughout the visit. The 45-minute visit remains in effect to allow for the needs of others.

This expansion of vaccinated visitor access will work if everyone honors these requirements.  The MA Department of Public Health make these measures mandatory.  I am sure that we all look forward to the days when we don’t have to take all these steps!  Everyone here will continue to work to protect your loved ones.

Respectfully and Sincerely,

George Mercier, Administrator

October 1, 2021

Dear Mount Carmel Care Center Residents, Families and Loved Ones:

Director of Nursing

I want to take time to recognize Anne Ranolde, who has been a mission-focused, dedicated and devoted Director of Nursing at our home here in Lenox for the past seven years and four months.  Anne’s knowledge, experience and focus on quality care will be missed.  Please join me in wishing her a happy retirement!

While we are recruiting a new Director, I am pleased to announce that our own Deborah Estes has agreed to serve as Interim Director of Nursing until our search process is complete.  Debbie is an experienced Director, and has comprehensive knowledge of clinical services in Skilled Nursing Facilities.  You may reach her at extension 116 beginning Monday, October 4^th.

COVID – 19 : 

• We are offering Rapid COVID-19 Tests for all families and resident visitors
• Effective immediately Mount Carmel will only employ fully vaccinated staff per Massachusetts Department of Public Health requirements. This will include all vendors, contractors and consultants.
• Use of Masks remains required for all residents, visitors, and staff – at all times- when in the facility AND for outdoor visits.
• Indoor visits continue on a scheduled basis, coordinated through our Activity Department.

Please schedule these visits 24 hours in advance.

• Outdoor visits are available on a scheduled basis “dependent on permissible weather conditions, availability of outdoor space, and the health and well-being of the resident.”

Compassionate Care (end of life) visits will continue on a “case-by-case” basis - coordinated with the facility clinical team with one change:  Please schedule these visits 24 hours in advance.

Also, you may continue to schedule video visits via FaceTime. Skype, Google Duo and Window visits remain an option for all residents who can participate.

Respectfully and Sincerely,

George Mercier, Administrator

September 8, 2021

Dear Mount Carmel Care Center Residents, Families and Loved Ones:

We had really hoped to be in a “post-COVID” world by now, with no visiting restrictions.  Unfortunately, the Department of Public Health in our call with them today let us know that the more infectious version of COVID-19 “the Delta variant” now makes visitation restrictions more necessary than ever. 

Visitation Update: 

Please know that we will do our best to accommodate resident visits, but that we MUST schedule your time, and ask that you notify us   at least 24 hours before coming into the building.  We need to avoid large groups of people in the facility at the same time.

We ask for your patience and cooperation as we continue to have 100% scheduled resident visitation - in the patio (outdoor) area if weather permits, or in the Assisted Dining Area on the St. Louise Unit if there is inclement weather.

In-room visits continue with the following precautions:

• We are offering Rapid COVID-19 Tests for all families and resident visitors
• Use of Masks is required for all residents, visitors, and staff – at all times- when in the facility AND for outdoor visits.
• Outdoor visits are available on a scheduled basis “dependent on permissible weather conditions, availability of outdoor space, and the health and well-being of the resident.”

In order to have family members of each resident get to spend time with their loved one, we ask that you plan visits no more than 2-3 times per week for 45 minutes.  Thank you for your kind consideration of others.

Compassionate Care (end of life) visits will continue on a “case-by-case” basis - coordinated with the facility clinical team with one change:  Please schedule these visits 24 hours in advance.

Also, you may continue to schedule video visits via FaceTime. Skype, Google Duo and Window visits remain an option for all residents who can participate.

We know these restrictions are difficult, please know that the guidelines are being given to us by the infection control experts in the state.. – Thank you for your anticipated cooperation!

Respectfully and Sincerely,

George Mercier, Administrator

August 23, 2021  

Dear Mount Carmel Care Center Residents, Families and Loved Ones: 

Hello everyone  

• No residents have tested positive for COVID 19. 
• Two staff people who tested positive are now cleared to return to work and are “COVID recovered”. 
• The Massachusetts Department of Public Health has issued updated guidance in August 2021: 

Visitation Update:   

We ask for your patience and cooperation as we continue to have 100% scheduled resident visitation - in the patio (outdoor) area if weather permits, or in the Assisted Dining Area on the St. Louise Unit if there is inclement weather.  

In-room visits resume as of Wednesday August 25th with the following changes: 

• All “in-facility” visits must be scheduled.  This includes in-room visits on an available time slot basis.   
• Use of Masks is required for all residents, visitors, and staff – at all times- when in the facility AND for outdoor visits. 
• Outdoor visits are available on a scheduled basis “dependent on permissible weather conditions, availability of outdoor space, and the health and well-being of the resident.”  

Also, please be aware that this will mean access to weekly visits so that we can accommodate all facility residents and families.  We have rapid (Binax) tests available for all families and resident visitors. 

Compassionate Care (end of life) visits will continue as before. 

Also, you may continue to schedule video visits via FaceTime. Skype, Google Duo and Window visits remain an option for all residents who can participate. 

Hoping you and your family are healthy and safe.  Please let us know what we can do to help. 

Respectfully and Sincerely, 

 George Mercier, Administrator 

August 17, 2021

Dear Mount Carmel Care Center Residents, Families and Loved Ones:

Hello everyone

• First, I want to share the good news: to date, no residents have tested positive for COVID 19.
• One of our two staff has been medically cleared to return to work and is considered “COVID recovered”.
• The other person affected remains symptomatic and is not able to return at this time.

Unfortunately, this means we need to remain in quarantine until the staff affected are recovered.

***NEW*** COVID Vaccination Required for all employees, consultants, providers and contractors:

MA Department of Public Health has notified all nursing facilities that all staff must be fully vaccinated no later than October 10^th.  There is new guidance on the use of face masks, which are required for all staff and residents when they are in common areas.

Visitation Update: 

We ask for your patience and cooperation as we continue to have 100% scheduled and supervised resident visitation - in the patio (outdoor) area if weather permits, or in the Assisted Dining Area on the St. Louise Unit if there is inclement weather.  No in-room visits are permitted at this time.

Also, please be aware that this will mean access to weekly visits so that we can accommodate all facility residents and families.  We have rapid (Binax) tests available for all families and resident visitors.

Compassionate Care (end of life) visits will continue as before.

Also, you may continue to schedule video visits via FaceTime. Skype, Google Duo and Window visits remain an option for all residents who can participate.

Hoping you and your family are healthy and safe.  Please let us know what we can do to help.

Respectfully and Sincerely,

George Mercier, Administrator

           August 9, 2021

Two Staff Positive for COVID – 19

Dear Mount Carmel Care Center Residents, Families and Loved Ones:

Hello everyone -

I wanted to provide the following important updates about Mount Carmel Care Center COVID cases:

• We currently have two staff members who have tested positive for COVID – 19
• Both staff members are in quarantine and will not return to work until they have medical clearance.
• No residents have tested positive.

Unfortunately, this means we need to remain in quarantine until the staff affected are recovered.

Visitation Update: 

We ask for your patience and cooperation as we need to return to 100% scheduled and supervised resident visitation in the patio (outdoor) area only.

Also, please be aware that this will mean access to weekly visits so that we can accommodate all facility residents and families.

Through the hard work of facility residents, families, and staff we will face this new challenge together!

We will follow CDC and Mass Department of Public Health guidance in requiring the mandatory use of masks during all visits, please see facility staff for assistance when you arrive for your scheduled visit thank you in advance for your cooperation!

Compassionate Care (end of life) visits will continue as before.

Also, you may continue to schedule video visits via FaceTime. Skype, Google Duo and Window visits remain an option for all residents who can participate.

Hoping you and your family are healthy and safe.  Please let us know what we can do to help.

Respectfully and Sincerely,

George Mercier, Administrator

August 3, 2021

Dear Mount Carmel Care Center Residents, Staff, Families and Family members - 

On August 2, an employee of Mount Carmel Care Center tested positive for COVID-19.

As a result, we are taking immediate action:

1. The affected staff person is in quarantine for 14 days and cannot return to work until medically cleared.
2. All staff and residents are being tested for COVID-19 using "rapid test".
3. Any positive findings will result in quarantine followed up with a laboratory test.
4. We are suspending "in-person" visitation while we determine the extent of any additional COVID infected individuals.
5. We have contacted the Massachusetts Department of Public Health Epidemiology and will follow their guidance.

Thank you for your patience as we go through this process.

George Mercier, Administrator

July 7, 2021

Dear Mount Carmel Care Center Residents, Families and Loved Ones:

Hello everyone -

Summer is here!  I wanted to provide some updates on Mount Carmel Care Center Happenings:

• Most Reverend William D. Bryne , Bishop of the Springfield Diocese, will be concelebrating a Vigil Mass here on the eve of the Our Lady of Mount Carmel Feast Day. The Bishop will be joined by Monsignor John Bonzagni of St. Ann’s parish for this service on Thursday, July 15^th at Mount Carmel on our new outdoor patio. This event will be attended by residents, staff, family members and the Carmelite Sisters by invitation.
• Following a luncheon, Bishop Byrne will be given a facility tour, and conclude by a blessing of the facility and mission. We look forward to this blessed event!

We are pleased host Bishop Byrne, who was installed as the 10^th Bishop of Springfield, MA by Cardinal Sean O’Malley on December 14, 2020.  Welcome!

COVID – 19 Update:

• On the COVID front – more progress: Mount Carmel Care Center has an 85% employee vaccination rate (2^nd highest in the county!) and was quoted in an article about nursing home vaccination rates in the Berkshire Eagle for this remarkable accomplishment on July 5^th. 
• Almost all facility residents have been fully vaccinated, with just one who is awaiting the second vaccination and two-week waiting period.
• All of this means that we have no new COVID cases since February of 2021!

With the high rate of facility and community vaccination, we are pleased to see the incidence of COVID decline.  Berkshire County has been a leader in Massachusetts, and the results are impressive.

Through the hard work of facility residents, families, and staff we have begun to have residents use the facility Chapel once again!  This is a major milestone, offering a return to prayer as a community!

We continue to follow CDC and Mass Department of Public Health guidance in requiring the use of masks when in the resident care areas of the facility, thank you in advance for your cooperation!

Hoping you and your family are healthy, safe and happy.  Please let us know what we can do to help.

Respectfully and Sincerely,

George Mercier, Administrator

June 1, 2021

Dear Mount Carmel Care Center Residents, Families and Loved Ones:

Hello everyone -

We hope all are happy and remain healthy as we begin summer of 2021!

• The facility continues to remain COVID – Free!
• While Massachusetts has relaxed infection control guidelines for public gatherings, Mount Carmel Care Center residents, staff and visitors are reminded that we are in the “high risk” nursing home environment. That said, we are excited to welcome families for in-person visitation, including in-room visits for those who are fully vaccinated. Please remember to contact us ahead of these visits, as we need to make sure that any roommate is also fully vaccinated and is comfortable with an in-room visitation.
• Alternatively, we are still having scheduled visits in our assisted dining area on St. Louise and may also be able to use the library on the St. Louise Unit for in-person visits.

In addition, we are getting outdoors, we have resumed outdoor grilling as weather permits.  It is great to see all the smiles as the warm weather returns!

We are beginning to have entertainers scheduled for resident activities, and there is nothing like music to rekindle the soul! 

With the high rate of facility and community vaccination, we are pleased to see the incidence of COVID decline.  Thanks to your diligence and cooperation, the light at the end of the tunnel is getting brighter and brighter.

Getting to the summer milestone is always a welcome relief to our long Massachusetts winters, but it is especially happy this year after our long COVID winter.   Mother Angeline continues to watch over, guide and protect all of us as we continue our Mission to serve the Aged and Infirm.

Hoping you and your family are healthy, safe and happy.  Please let us know what we can do to help.

Respectfully and Sincerely,

George Mercier, Administrator

 April 28, 2021

Dear Families and Friends of Mount Carmel Care Center,

The Department of Public Health (MA PDH) issued updated guidance for nursing home resident / family visits on April 20th. You can see this information in the link on the www.MountCarmelCare.org website.

As you can see, this DPH guidance still requires the surveillance testing program that has been in place, but now allows visits to resident rooms. This is welcome progress!

The updated details for scheduled “in-room” visitation: Beginning Monday, May 3rd, 2021

· If you and your loved one has been fully vaccinated (evidence of both vaccinations requested) – and the roommate consents - a visit in the room is allowed. If there is a roommate, that person must have had both vaccinations as well and be comfortable with the visit. All will need to wear masks and follow the safety protocols i.e., washing hands with sanitizer, and social distancing. The curtain between the beds will need to be pulled and the roommate will have to wear a mask as well. You will be directed what door to enter and will be asked to exit the same way.

· To have a safe visit, please let us know when you will be coming and who you are planning to see. We ask that you visit only your loved one, as “general” visitation is not yet permitted.

· Upon arrival, you will be screened at the front desk, temperature taken, ask that you complete the questionnaire, and asked if you have been vaccinated. You may also be offered a voluntary “rapid test” as part of this screening. (Please do not visit if you are COVID 19 positive or have any of the symptoms listed).

· You will be brought to the resident’s room and you will need to stay in that room throughout the visit. Also, let us know when you will be leaving so that we can clean that area.

Scheduled visits will continue for those not eligible for in room:

· Please be aware that we will also continue to have scheduled visits as we have the responsibility of maintaining safety and monitoring to protect all residents. The visit will still require checking in at the front desk, answering the questionnaire, have your temperature taken, and asked if you have been fully vaccinated. “Rapid testing” will be offered but not required. These visits will occur in a designated area.

Outdoor visits:

· With the warmer weather, we are in the process of putting up a tent which will allow more freedom for outside visits for the family member and resident who has received both vaccines. Unfortunately, any visitor who has not been vaccinated will require that a staff member be present throughout the visit.

Out of the facility visits:

· Please discuss with the facility staff any wishes for an out of the facility visit and guidelines will be reviewed at that time.

We are grateful for your patience and understanding during this pandemic. We all have felt the stress and confusion over the last year and pray for a better year going forward. We will continue to protect your loved ones to the best of our ability against this virus.

Respectfully submitted,

Anne Ranolde, RN. DNS

April 22, 2021

Mount Carmel Care Families:

Good afternoon everyone, this is a quick message to notify our family and friends that on the afternoon of April 20, 2021 we are given new visitation guidelines from D.P.H. We are in the process of reviewing these guidelines and implementing new policies and procedures for our facility. I know we are all anxious to get back to normal, however we still have a ways to go. We need to continue to be vigilant in following all DPH rules and making sure that our priority, as always, is the safety and wellbeing of all our residents. In the coming days, there will be a memo sent out lining the new policies for the facility along with a start date. Please be patient and understanding during this time as you have been the past year. WE are all in this together and we will get through this together. Please reach out if you have any questions or concerns. 

Sincerely,

Anne Ranolde, RN

Director of Nursing

Mount Carmel Care Center

April 9, 2021

Dear Mount Carmel Care Center Residents, Families and Loved Ones:
Hello everyone -
As the days get longer and spring gets underway, I want to take a moment to thank everyone for their continued patience and diligence in maintaining precautions and cooperating with visitation rules.
• The facility continues to remain COVID – Free!
• With all the challenges of finding, training, and retaining qualified staff, Mount Carmel has not had any agency (temporary) staff since April of 2019. This allows us to provide a consistent assignment of caregivers who are dedicated to quality resident care.
In-person visitation is in place on a scheduled basis. Thank you for working with the Activities Department to coordinate your visit. Remember, you may only bring your keys and a phone to the visit! As the weather improves, we will once again look at scheduling time outdoors on the patio – stay tuned. Of course, we continue our video visits via Face Time, Skype, Google Duo continue as well as window visits.
In addition to getting outdoors, we will soon be doing our first outdoor grilling as weather permits. Patio furniture is going out today. There is just something about getting outside in the warm sun to lift the spirit!
You may have noticed that we have now have active phone lines for all resident beds in all resident rooms, at no additional charge. This enhancement will allow you to stay in touch with your loved ones during a facility stay, which is so important for emotional health these days.
With the high rate of facility and community vaccination, we are pleased to see the incidence of COVID decline, but we will need to remain patient and stick to our current process to support the health and safety of everyone. Thank you for your cooperation.
As we celebrate the Easter season, we continue to keep our commitment to “Love is the Difference” in Mother Angeline’s Mission to care for the Aged and Infirm.
Hoping you and your family are healthy, safe and happy. Please let us know what we can do to help.
Respectfully and Sincerely,

George Mercier, Administrator

March 23, 2021

Dear Mount Carmel Care Center Residents, Families and Loved Ones:

Hello everyone -

Welcome Spring! As you probably know, Massachusetts is moving toward more relaxed guidance in the management of COVID – 19. While this is welcome news, we will continue to maintain our vigilance and adhere to the CDC guidance as we move forward.

Some things are clearly visible right now –

· We have resumed in-person, scheduled 45-minute visits once again!

· Group activities have also started again, with social distancing in place.

· Group dining has returned to the main dining room for a limited number of residents.

· We may even be able to get outside with this warmer weather!

Of course, our video visits via Face Time, Skype, Google Duo continue as well as window visits. Our Activities Director, Joy Morin. is out on a short leave of absence, so please contact Shelby Reynolds or Marley Mitchell in Activities as you schedule in-person visits.

The facility remains COVID – Free currently, and we are working hard to keep it that way. We will continue to reach out and coordinate care planning, call you with updates, and we are always here to give you updates on what is happening with your loved one.

We will keep you posted as progress continues, and the good news is we are well-positioned to continue Mother Angeline’s Mission to care for the Aged and Infirm as we move into the future.

The team here at Mount Carmel Care Center continues to be focused on providing the very best resident care and services. We have all been through one of the most difficult times in recent healthcare history, and everyone deserves special thanks and praise for maintaining discipline and vigilance in support of all those we serve. We’re not done yet, and we beg your indulgence to “hang in there” and observe the precautions for now.

We look forward to a Blessed Easter, and pray that you and your family will be healthy, safe and happy during this joyous season!

Respectfully and Sincerely,

George Mercier, Administrator

March 1, 2021

Dear Mount Carmel Care Center Residents, Families and Loved Ones:

·       I am pleased to report that Mount Carmel Care Center has no additional positive COVID – 19 resident or staff test results as of March 1, 2021.

·       Our seven residents and five employees who were affected by COVID – 19 are now all RECOVERED.  This positive development is a result of the infection control efforts of facility staff, COVID vaccinations, and antibody treatments.

·       Scheduled 45-minute, in person visitation of residents will resume tomorrow, March 2, 2021; please coordinate with Joy Morin our Activities Director or her staff at 413.637.2660 extension 114.  We also ask that you continue to arrange for Face Time, Skype, or window visits.

·       We will continue testing and monitoring for the presence of COVID – 19 and advise you of any changes.

·       We continue to observe all CDC recommendations including but not limited to wearing masks, social distancing, sanitizing “high-touch” surfaces and thorough cleaning of the facility daily.

·       An on-site visit was conducted on Friday, February 26 by Melissa Cumming of MA Department of Public Health Epidemiology to provide consultative infection control support.  We appreciate the efforts of the state in providing this expertise and are following up on all recommendations to make the facility safe for all staff, residents and visitors.

·       We have been cleared to resume new admissions at this time, and we appreciate your continued confidence in our services.

·       Please contact me, or the Director of Nursing, Anne Ranolde if you have any questions at 413.637.2660. 

Thank you for your continued prayers and support,

George Mercier, Administrator

Mount Carmel Care Center

February 24, 2021

Dear Mount Carmel Care Center Residents, Families and Loved Ones:

We are pleased to report that Mount Carmel Care Center passed our Infection Control Survey conducted by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health conducted on Tuesday February 23rd in full compliance with all infection control standards.

The facility has been cleared to resume admissions, and we are pleased to report that our 7 affected residents are now "COVID-recovered". There are no new cases identified this week, as all residents test results are negative as of today, February 24, 2021. 

Please see the attached letter update from MA DPH rescinding the admissions freeze previously posted.

Thank you for your continued prayers and support!

George Mercier

February 23, 2021

Dear Mount Carmel Care Center Residents, Families and Loved Ones:

Please see the attached letter update from MA Executive Office of Elder Affairs with a resident visitation update.

Thank you for your continued prayers and support,

George Mercier

February 11, 2021

Dear Mount Carmel Care Center Residents, Families and Loved Ones:

Action update:

·       On February 11, 2021 we have additional positive COVID – 19 test results.  We have created a COVID – 19 care area on the St. Louise Unit.  Appropriate steps for 14-day isolation have been put into place.  Dr. Kirby, residents and family members notified.

·       Staff, medications, and supplies needed to provide care will be dedicated to the dedicated care area.  Video and window visits continue.  Please call if you have questions!

·       Mount Carmel Care Center employees who have tested POSITIVE for COVID – 19 have been medically cleared to return to work.  No new employee cases have been identified.

·       Currently testing all staff and residents twice weekly and will continue until we have 14 days with no positive results.

·       Indoor visitation has been suspended pending the same 14 day no positive COVID test requirement.

·       The main dining room will be closed for this period as well.

We have notified the Massachusetts Department of Public Health and the MA DPH Epidemiology staff of our situation.

Thank you for your continued prayers and support,

George Mercier

February 10, 2021

Dear Mount Carmel Care Center Residents, Families and Loved Ones:

Action Update:

• On February 10, 2021 two more residents have tested positive for COVID-19. This brings our facility total to 3 affected residents. Appropriate steps for 14-day isolation have been put into place. This will include room changes to create designated COVID positive care rooms. Dr. Kirby, residents and family members notified.
• Mount Carmel Care Center employees who have tested POSITIVE for COVID-19 have been medically cleared to return to work. No new employee cases have been identified.
• Currently testing all staff and residents twice weekly and will continue until we have 14 days with no positive results.
• Indoor visitation has been suspended pending the same 14 day no positive COVID test requirement.
• The main dining room will be closed for this period as well.

We have notified the Massachusetts Department of Public Health and the MA DPH Epidemiology staff of our situation.

Thank you for your continued prayers and support,

George Mercier

February 4, 2021

Dear Mount Carmel Care Center Residents, Families and Loved Ones:

Action Update:

• Today, February 4, 2021 one resident has tested positive for COVID-19 from testing that occurred on February 1, 2021. Appropriate steps for 14-day isolation have been put into place. Dr. Kirby notified, residents and family members called.
• Mount Carmel Care Center has two employees who have tested POSITIVE for COVID-19 who remain on quarantine until 2/8/21.
• Currently testing all staff and residents twice weekly and will continue until we have 14 days with no positive results.
• Indoor visitation has been suspended pending the same 14 day no positive COVID test requirement.
• The main dining room will be closed for this period as well.

We have notified the Massachusetts Department of Public Health and the MA DPH Epidemiology staff of our situation.

Thank you for your prayers and support,

George Mercier

January 29, 2021

Dear Mount Carmel Care Center Residents, Families and Loved Ones:

Action update:

• No residents have tested positive for COVID-19.
• Mount Carmel Care Center has two employees who have tested POSITIVE for COVID-19. These employees are quarantined for 14 days.
• We have identified 6 additional staff who were in "close contact" with these employees. Those staff persons have all tested negative at this time.
• Currently testing all staff and residents twice weekly and will continue until we have 14 days with no positive results.
• Indoor visitation has been suspended pending the same 14 day no positive COVID test requirement.
• The main dining room will be closed for this period as well.

Mount Carmel had our second CVS COVID-19 vaccination clinic with CVS yesterday which went very well. All who consented to vaccination received it.

We have notified the Massachusetts Department of Public Health Epidemiology staff of our situation.

Thank you for your prayers and support,

George Mercier

January 14, 2021

Dear Mount Carmel Care Center Residents, Families and Loved Ones:

Hello everyone -

Update: the COVID vaccination clinic held by CVS on January 7^th was a great success!  Over 92% of residents and 62% of staff received their first dose of the two-part COVID – 19 vaccine on that day.

We just received confirmation from CVS that the second vaccination clinic is confirmed for January 28^th from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM.  This clinic will be able to provide the second round of the vaccine, and for those who missed the January 7^th date, they will be able to get their first injection on that date also.

There is a 3^rd clinic tentatively scheduled for February 18^th which will be our last clinic day with CVS.  The February clinic will be for the second vaccination only.

All those who received the vaccine tolerated it very well.  I want to give thanks to facility staff who made the clinic very efficient.  Although it was a very busy time, we were able to get the vaccination to everyone who wanted it by the end of the day.  We also learned a lot to make the next clinic work even better.

We will have a second, revised consent form that will need to be completed prior to the January 28^th clinic date, so for those who serve as legal guardians or activated healthcare proxies please be on the lookout for this new form.  We will assist those who are able to consent directly.

These are exciting developments at Mount Carmel Care Center, which continues to have weekly testing for all staff.  No residents have been diagnosed with COVID – 19 from January 1, 2020 to present.  Your prayers and support are appreciated.  Thank you for your cooperation and understanding as we continue to observe the social distancing, mask wearing, and all protocols related to the prevention of transmission of this virus.  In-person 45-minute scheduled visits, FaceTime, Skype, Google Duo, window visits and phone calls have lifted spirits throughout this time.

Speaking of phone calls, we are having a new phone system installed at the facility which will include a live telephone line for each resident of the facility.  We are switching from Verizon to a computer-based company called Windstream.  Most residents will be able to keep their current phone number but will lose their phone bill!  We will be able to use the current phones, so for facility residents outgoing and inbound calls will happen with no other changes.

We are working diligently every day to focus on the overall care of every facility resident.  Thank you for your continued support!

Respectfully and Sincerely,

George Mercier, Administrator

January 4, 2021

Dear Mount Carmel Care Center Residents, Families and Loved Ones:

I want to acknowledge and thank you for your support for the resident COVID vaccination consent process.  The clinic is scheduled to happen on Thursday, January 7, 2021 from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM.  During those hours, all registered residents and our facility staff will be getting the COVID vaccine administered by CVS staff, with support from facility staff. “Registration” happens when CVS gets the signed consent.

There have been many reports of successful vaccination clinics from area facilities, and it is reassuring to know that this the case.  Following the vaccination, we will be closely monitoring everyone to assure their well-being.  We are excited that we will be taking this next step and will look to answer any questions you may have.

As we all know, even with the vaccine that we will continue all the infection control practices as before, including scheduled family visits, face masks, social distancing, hand washing, etc. as required.

This vaccination is a two-step process.  We will also keep you posted on the second vaccination date, tentatively scheduled for January 28^th, and it is this second dose of the vaccine which provides the most effective protection.

All of us here want to thank you for your continued cooperation.  No residents have tested positive for COVID-19 to date, and we continue to sanitize the environment, screen all those essential personnel and visitors who enter the facility in addition to all our infection control practices.  This is a team effort, and we want to thank each of you for being a member of the team!

We also know that this time has been difficult for everyone, and that it is difficult to maintain this vigilance from a social and emotional perspective.  Please know that your contact is essential, and we continue to encourage in-person, window, telephone and electronic (Skype, FaceTime, Google Duo) means.  We are also looking to expand our activities programming and are actively working to engage residents every day.

Mother Angeline asks us to be “kinder than kindness itself”.  Never has this been more important than during the COVID – 19 era.  Best wishes in the New Year.

Respectfully and Sincerely,

George Mercier, NHA
Administrator