United Methodist Communities, with headquarters in Neptune, has acted to address the novel (new) coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Amid this pandemic, the organization continues to work tirelessly and comprehensively to help ensure the health and well-being of residents, clients, and associates. At this time, we have no cases or known exposures of COVID-19 in our UMC communities.
The company has formed a COVID-19 Response Team, led by Corporate Director of Compliance and Risk Management, Elizabeth P. Andersen, composed of organizational leaders, registered nurses, and infection control practitioners representing every UMC location. The team communicates regularly and consistently meets via conference calls. Sub-groups address specific areas of concern such as dining, community engagement, and staffing.
In addition to its longstanding infection-control procedures, the company is following expert recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the New Jersey Department of Health (NJDOH), and county health departments. These protocols include infection control training, supply purchasing, staffing preparedness, and other measures.
Recognizing the dangers this virus poses to fragile residents and clients, the company is now prohibiting visitors from entering the full-service communities. Visitors may only enter as essential for the resident’s well-being and care (e.g., hospice and end-of-life situations). This is a precautionary measure to reduce the threat of spreading the coronavirus. These measures are necessary to protect residents to the greatest of our ability. Outside groups, as appropriate, no longer visit.
