COVID-19 Pandemic Planning
With the declaration of the COVID-19 pandemic, ACDS wants to assure our members and stakeholders that we are committed to monitoring the global pandemic related to the COVID-19 virus, and providing our members with information, resources and support as the virus continues to progress here in Alberta.
I have spoken with many of you over the past few days and know that you are already seeing impacts on your staffing and/or program operations. In addition to the organizational level planning you are undertaking and amending as needed in this continuously changing environment, I strongly encourage organizations to work collaboratively and/or regionally to support staffing and operational needs across agencies and programs where possible. I know many of you are already making these arrangements and meeting with regional PDD staff. The Service Provider Partnership Committee (SPPC) is meeting on Monday, March 16th and will be discussing pandemic response with Alberta Community and Social Services official and advocating strongly for the supports needed to organizations as the situation evolves.
We are keenly aware of the potential impacts to our members, and we are staying abreast of the guidance given by Alberta Health Services. The Alberta government has stated the risk level in Alberta is still low, yet we must remain informed and prepared. At this time, March 13, 2020, ACDS is for the most part operating as usual, although we have some staff working from home or in self isolation (due to recent travel), based on current recommendations to Albertans by Alberta Health Services. We are also endeavoring to limit committee meetings and engage video conferencing options wherever possible.
We are reviewing our plans and operations and planning for a possible escalation of the situation, and monitoring ongoing recommendations from health authorities and encourage our members to do the same.
