Data collection is critical to our community's immediate response and future public health evaluations. The better we understand where the disease is, the better connections our agencies and communities can make for clients to medical services. With data we can:
- Track COVID-19
- Protect Clients and Staff
- Advocate for Resources
Objective:
To understand the total count of clients with COVID-19 symptoms
(
fever, cough, shortness of breath
)
, in quarantine, in hospitals, and in recovery in the Homeless Services System and the dates for each event.
Who:
All current and new clients
with
symptoms for COVID-19.
Don’t worry if clients have not been tested. CDC and HUD guidance is to not wait – we do not want to undercount!
All projects should screen and enter this data. COVID-19 does not discriminate between project or household types. As you initiate screening to evaluate client needs, integrate data entry procedures for clients with symptoms.
Where:
Client Profile tab, beneath the additional Race options.
- Add Yes for “Symptoms consistent with COVID-19” if appropriate. Leave blank if No symptoms.
- Add client-reported Date for “date symptoms started:” for ALL with symptoms. If the client is unsure or can't remember, enter today's date.
- Add Date for “quarantine date:” if appropriate. Could be designated rooms at the shelter, health clinic or hospital rooms, or self-isolation in the client's home. Leave blank if Not Applicable or Unknown.
- Add Date for “hospitalized date:” if due to COVID-19 symptoms. Leave blank if Not Applicable or Unknown.
- Only add Yes or No for “test result” if a result or confirmation is known. Leave blank if Not Applicable or Unknown.
- Add Date for “Recovery date:” when the client self-reports feeling better. Leave blank if Not Applicable or Unknown.
Have questions? We will record a demonstration at the BoS HMIS Users Meeting tomorrow. And you can always reach out to us at hmis@ncceh.org!
