COVID-19 service delivery update

Boab Health Services’ Response Updates

Returning to Face-to-Face Appointments – 11th May 2022

Boab Health Services will be returning to face-to-face client consultations for most of our referrals from 11^th May 2022. If you prefer your appointment to be via Telehealth or Telephone then this will also continue to be available. Please contact Boab Health Services staff to discuss your preference. Remote visits are scheduled to resume shortly thereafter.

For more information, see our letter from our Executive Manager Clinical Services, Lesley Cunningham: Click Here.

Changes to Boab Health Services Appointments effective 21 Feb 2022

The Chief Health Officer, WA Health, has advised health care providers to move to telehealth services as much as possible. This will mean some changes to the way Boab Health Service operates.

As of 21 February 2022, Boab Health Service will be transitioning towards a telehealth model for most of our appointments, consistent with other West Australian health care providers. Boab Health Service staff will directly contact clients with upcoming appointments to arrange the telehealth appointment. Our Podiatrists will continue to see high-risk clients with active foot ulcers face-to-face wherever possible.

Hopefully, these changes will mean the lowest possible transmission of COVID-19 in our clinical consultations. This provides a measure of safety for both our clients and our staff and ensures we can continue to serve our community.

What is a telehealth appointment?

A telehealth appointment is via an online video or telephone call. We will work with you to utilise the most secure platform you are comfortable with. Telehealth platforms may include MS Teams, Zoom etc.

What can I expect from my telehealth appointment?

A telehealth appointment is just like any other appointment; the only difference is that you will see your health care provider on a screen or talk to them by telephone.

How private and secure is the appointment?

Telehealth appointments are as private as in-person appointments. Measures are in place to ensure video conferencing platforms are secure.

Can I bring a support person?

Yes, a family member, friend or support person can attend the appointment with you if that is your choice.

To ensure a smooth transition to telehealth services, we have developed systems and processes to ensure the continuation of high quality, client-centric services for all our programs to support safe and appropriate clinical management. These changes will not alter our commitment to our clients.

How long will my telehealth appointment take?

This depends on what you need to talk about. And it might be longer if it’s your first appointment. As with all medical appointments, there are times when appointments may be delayed. The Boab Health Service’s team will keep you informed of any delays.

What does it cost?

All appointments are free, whether in person or via telehealth. Downloading and installing applications and using your computer or device for a telehealth call will use data and may incur download costs from your internet service provider.

What about your care coordination and health promotion programs?

Our care coordination program will continue via telehealth services. Our health promotion and/or group programs are temporarily on hold. If you can see any potential for us to continue with these programs via telehealth, please contact your regular Boab Health Services staff member.

You can view our letter sent to clients here and stakeholder letter here

As always, you are welcome to discuss any concerns by contacting Boab Health Service directly on 9192 7888 (Broome) or 9166 8100 (Kununurra) or emailing reception@boabhealth.com.au.

Changes to Entry Requirements for Clients, Contractors and Visitors

The following changes came into effect on 31 January 2022:

All visitors over the age of 16 years are required to show evidence (digital or paper based) of their COVID-19 full vaccination as a condition of entry
Must wear a mask
Vaccinated visitors will be permitted entry and will be added to a register as approved for site entry
Are required to use the contact registry or SAFEWA app on building entry
Comply with use of hand sanitizer, hand hygiene, cough etiquette and social distancing
Sign in and out of the building
Keep visits as short as possible

Visitors who are unvaccinated or unable to show evidence of vaccination will not be permitted to enter the main office buildings at either of our locations in Broome and Kununurra. (We may be able to assist you to gain access to you COVID-19 digital certificate – please contact us)

All clients will be required to participate in COVID-19 screening questions prior to any face to face consultations.

Unvaccinated clients or clients who are unable to show evidence of vaccination will be offered telehealth or telephone appointments. Our podiatry team will continue to see high-risk clients following enhanced screening prior to attending.

Thank you for your support and cooperation in maintaining the health of our staff and clients.

Staff

Staff who have travelled interstate are required to follow the strict WA border control guidelines and any staff who were in the affected areas in WA are following the State government protocols including lockdown and / or quarantine and maybe working from home. More information on entering WA can be found here.

Although the Kimberley region is not in lockdown, we are continuing to monitor the WA situation carefully. We are following State health and WA Country Health Service recommendations and guidelines. Our staff may be wearing masks in clinics and in public spaces. We will continue to maintain 1.5m social distancing and strict hand and personal hygiene with staff, clients and visitors.

Updated 13:50pm 2 February 2022.

COVID-19 safe workplace.

Our number one priority is the safety of our clients, teammates and community.

Our Executive Management Team continues to regularly monitor advice, guidance and directives around the coronavirus pandemic provided by Local, State and Federal government agencies.

We are vigilant with our health and safety measures to protect the safety of our community. These measures include daily and weekly cleaning procedures, daily fit-for-work screening for staff and COVID-19 symptom screening for clients and an increase in hand and personal hygiene for staff and clients alike.

Remote Aboriginal community service delivery

We are respectful of Aboriginal communities’ right to determine which services enter each individual community.

In line with The Department of the Premier and Cabinet’s advise (including the Remote Aboriginal Communities Direction (No.3)) and in consultation with KAHPF, remote Aboriginal community clinics and the local community councils we have recommenced mutually-agreed return to outreach service delivery to most remote Aboriginal communities across the Kimberley.

Policies and Plans 

We are continuing to implement our Pandemic Policy, Recovery Plan and COVID-19 Action Plan. And regularly update our staff on the latest guidelines on the coronavirus situation, including weekly sitrep key updates from the WA Country Health Service.

Coping with coronavirus anxiety

Beyond Blue Australia has some helpful tips if you are feeling worried about the coronavirus pandemic. View Beyond Blue article.

Diabetes Management and other supports

People living with diabetes need to take the same precautions as everyone else, with a few additional considerations.  For the latest information on diabetes and COVID-19 visit Diabetes WA.

We have an ongoing partnership with Diabetes WAto provide access to diabetes education across the Kimberley. Diabetes WA has services available if you are unable to reach your usual diabetes educator with Boab Health Services.

Diabetes WA Helpline:  free access to the latest diabetes management advice from a Credentialed Diabetes Educator on 1300 001 880, 8:30am – 4:30pm Monday to Friday. Available for both health professionals and people living with diabetes.
Diabetes WA Telehealth Service for all metro and regional areas: book a free consultation with our team of diabetes educators including dietitians, pharmacists and registered nurses. Diabetes education is delivered via videoconferencing on your computer or your mobile phone, from the comfort of your home or anywhere with suitable equipment. To book, call 1300 001 880 or email telehealth@diabeteswa.com.au
MYDESMOND – an online self-management program for people with type 2 diabetes in WA.