IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF: April 15, 2021:

Colleagues, Residents, Families, and Friends,

This week, I am honored to contribute to Kimberly’s weekly column. It’s been a month since our Heart is Where the Home Is Virtual Benefit and the generosity continues. We now have raised over $535,000 to support our residents at Cedar Sinai Park (CSP)!

Your support goes to offsetting the costs not covered by Medicaid, increased costs due to COVID, and providing for those who have outlived their means.

You truly are a blessing, and on behalf of all of at CSP, thank you. This quote from Rumi perfectly captures our appreciation for all of you:

“If you only say one prayer in a day, make it Thank You.” – Rumi

Special thanks to Elisa Klein who posted my colleague Grace Hollandsworth’s lovely story about our Benefit in this week’s Portland Society Page. CSP has not been in the Portland Society page since 2014! This is some nice publicity showcasing our residents, staff, and our generous community – that means YOU.

Enjoy this lovely weather and warm sunshine. Just another thing to be thankful for.

With love, honor, and respect,

Dru Rosenthal
Director of Development & Communications

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF: April 8, 2021:

Beloved Colleagues, Residents, Families, and Friends,

ONE YEAR LATER……

The past fourteen months have been the most challenging in the history of our community. Nothing could have prepared us for the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual shock of the COVID-19 pandemic.

For the residents, staff, families, trustees, and volunteers of Cedar Sinai Park, it has been an especially harrowing and often terrifying journey. Wondering…worrying, not if but when, despite our best efforts and following ever-changing regulations and guidelines, COVID-19 would penetrate the walls of our campus.

Now, with most of our residents and staff vaccinated, we look forward to the future. While the challenges are still many and daunting, I believe they remain within our reach.

As we continue to carefully open our doors, we experience the tremendous healing power of human touch and connection. Hugs are happening; laughter fills the halls; a lightness of being is returning.

And it is all due to each of YOU. I am grateful for the vital leadership of our trustees, the unbridled bravery and selfless dedication of our staff, the compassion and resilience of our residents, families, and volunteers and unprecedented continued support of our community.

Thank you for the privilege of serving together.

With love, honor, and respect,

Kimberly Fuson
Chief Executive Officer
503-504-5277

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF: April 2, 2021:

Dear Colleagues, Residents, Families, and Friends,

Chag Pesach Sameach and Happy Good Friday Colleagues, Residents, Families, and Friends,

We welcome Shabbat and come to the end of Pesach, with many blessings from the Department of Human Services (DHS):

Beginning Monday, April 5, 2021 Rose Schnitzer Manor (RSM) will initiate the following protocols:

Visitation: In apartment visitation open to all residents and visitors at all times in resident apartments, regardless of vaccination status:

• All visitors must participate in screening before entering RSM.
• Rapid tests are recommended and will be offered to all visitors, but not required.
• Movement within RSM limited to coming and going to apartment for visit;
• Visitors must wear properly fitting face coverings/masks. RSM will continue to provide masks for those visitors who forget to bring their own.
• Close contact – We acknowledge the toll that separation and isolation has taken. We also acknowledge that there is no substitute for physical contact, such as the warm embrace between a resident and their loved one. Therefore, if the resident is fully vaccinated, they can choose to have close contact (including touch) with their visitor while wearing a well-fitting face mask and performing hand-hygiene before and after. Regardless, visitors should physically distance from other residents and staff in the facility.

Community-organized outings: May resume. Per DHS, “While a long-term care resident’s right to leave has always been maintained, it is important that residents remain vigilant regarding COVID-19 precautions and protocols while in the community.” This means please, please, please wear masks, exercise good hand hygiene and distancing (at least 6 feet).

Dining: The Newmark Dining Room is now open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner by reservation. Room Service dining will continue.

Beginning April 12, 2021, RSM is initiating Anytime Dining:

• The Newmark Dining Room will be open 7a-3p for breakfast and lunch and 4p-7:30p for dinner.
• The Holzman Dining Room will be open from noon-3:30p for lunch and 4:30p-8p for dinner.
• Plexiglass dividers will be available upon request.

Once the dining rooms open, RSM will return to the pre-pandemic policy for ordering and charging for room service for those who choose to dine in.

The Cohn Café is re-opening June 1, 2021 with a new twist… Stay tuned.

PPE Requirement Changes for RSM Staff: Universal eye protection for staff members is now only required when one or more of the following criteria exists:

• Multnomah or Washington County enters “extreme risk” by county metrics; or
• RSM currently has an Executive Order for a suspected or confirmed case of COVID-19; or
• Less than 70% of residents are vaccinated; or
  Less than 60% of staff are vaccinated (March 15); or
  Less than 65% of staff are vaccinated (Apr 15); or
  Less than 70% of staff are vaccinated (May 15); or
  Less than 75% of staff are vaccinated (June 30).
• Eye protection is still recommended for the care of any resident known or
  suspected to be infected with COVID-19.

Universal masking continues to be required for all staff.

RJHC/HSCL: No changes to visitation, dining, activity, and PPE protocols at this time.

CSP COVID Testing Updates
Testing: March 24-31, 2021:

• No new positive results to date at RSM, RJHC/HSCL or SIHC.
• RJHC/HSCL continued testing: Initiating monthly surveillance testing for all staff April 7, 2021 (contingent upon positivity rates).
• RSM continued testing: Initiating monthly routine surveillance testing ONLY for staff who have NOT been fully vaccinated April 13, 2021 (required by DHS).

In addition to the vaccine, PPE, hand hygiene, and
distancing continues to be our best defense:

• • • Wear the appropriate PPE (mask/shield/gown) as instructed.
    • Make sure your mask has a good fit.
    • Avoid touching your face.
    • Use hand sanitizer coming and going and in between!
    • Maintain social distance of six feet.

As always, if you have any questions, please feel free to contact the campus administrators or me. We will assist you in any way possible.

RSM: Vivian Villegas: 1-360-936-2694
HSCL/RJHC: Krista Mattox: 503-320-0807

Good Shabbos,

Kimberly Fuson
Chief Executive Officer
503-504-5277

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF: March 24, 2021:

Dear Colleagues, Residents, Families, and Friends,

Wishing all an early Chag Pesach Sameach! My father shared the following video last weekend. Sharing this bit of nachas with all of you, in his honor and I know you all “get it” (it’s been 14 months since we’ve seen each other in person let alone hugged).

With love, memories of Pesach’s past and great hope and faith in our cautiously present and future togetherness:

The Gefilte Film

On that note, because the Portland metro area’s positivity rate for COVID has been under 4% for the past several weeks, we decided to make seder in person (as well as virtual for those who aren’t yet comfortable gathering) at both Rose Schnitzer Manor Assisted Living and Robison Jewish Health Center/Harold Schnitzer Center For Living. We are blessed that our community responded so quickly and with such passion! Our phenomenal life enrichment and leadership staff have been specially assigned to each seder to assure all are appropriately distanced, disinfected, and PPE’d, of course! Oy vey!

Please join me in expressing deep gratitude to our beloved seder leaders:

In Person
Ronnie Schechter, RN 
Ken Jones 
Elise Brickner-Schulz
Kathy Hasson & Dan Schiff
Rabbi Sarah Rensin
Rabbi Barry Cohen

Virtual
Amy Shapiro & Jeff Olenick
Barbara Slader

CSP COVID Updates:
Vaccines:
We are pleased to share CSP is participating with Consonus Pharmacy for our vaccine continuity program. Beginning Wednesday, March 24, 2021, CSP will conduct vaccine clinics for new residents, new staff and any current residents and staff that opted out of our initial three vaccine clinics.

Vaccine Clinics will be held Wednesdays from 9:00am-noon at RJHC/HSCL for all staff. New resident vaccines will be given in the privacy of their individual suite/apartment.

At this time, we are able to obtain 24 doses of the Pfizer vaccine per week. Consonus is working to obtain the Moderna and Janssen (Johnson & Johnson) vaccines as well. We anticipate that more doses will be allotted to CSP as the vaccine distribution rate increases across the country.

Testing: March 8-23, 2021:

• No new positive results to date at RSM, RJHC/HSCL or SIHC.
• Weekly testing of all staff continues at this time.

Visitation:

• We continue to open cautiously to indoor visits. Residents may have two visitors at a time in the privacy of their suite/apartment. Visits are scheduled in advance and all are rapid tested and assessed upon entry, even if vaccinated.

In addition to the vaccine, PPE, hand hygiene, and
distancing continues to be our best defense:

• • Wear the appropriate PPE (mask/shield/gown) as instructed.
  • Make sure your mask has a good fit.
  • Avoid touching your face.
  • Use hand sanitizer coming and going and in between!
  • Maintain social distance of six feet.

As always, if you have any questions, please feel free to contact the campus administrators or me. We will assist you in any way possible.

RSM: Vivian Villegas: 1-360-936-2694
HSCL/RJHC: Krista Mattox: 503-320-0807

With love, honor, and respect,

Kimberly Fuson
Chief Executive Officer
503-504-5277

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF: March 16, 2021:

Kimberly Fuson (CEO), Cedar Sinai Park staff, and the Community Development Committee are grateful to everyone who attended and supported the “Heart Is Where the Home Is” Virtual Annual Benefit.

Together we raised over $520,000 to
love, honor, and respect the people
who live and work at CSP.

If you were not able to join us, please find a recording of the program HERE.

And check out our Facebook page for more updates and videos.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF: March 16, 2021:

Dear Colleagues, Residents, Families, and Friends,

Last night we confirmed a new staff member at RJHC/HSCL tested positive for COVID-19. Our new hire has not yet reported for duty on campus. Additionally, one of our caregivers at SIHC tested positive for COVID-19 as well. Neither are symptomatic.

We have notified Public Health (OHA), the Oregon Department of Human Services Safety, Oversight and Quality Unit (DHS/SOQ) and the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) as required.

Both staff members are quarantining at home per CDC guidelines. Please join me in sending positive thoughts and prayers for a speedy recovery.

As in all cases, contact tracing is performed.

We must all continue to do our best to do all we can to support our community by following the recommendations set forth by the CDC:

• Wear the appropriate PPE (mask/shield/gown) as instructed.
• Avoid touching your face.
• Washing Hands for 20 seconds with soap and water and use hand sanitizer.
• Social Distancing/staying home if possible.
• Self-isolating if showing any signs or symptoms of COVID-19.
• Seek medical assistance as necessary.

Please know we are taking every step as recommended by authorities to contain the spread. We want to make residents, their families, and our dedicated staff aware of this situation and reassure everyone that we are on top of it.

Developments are changing day by day, minute by minute. Our focus remains on the health and well-being of our community. We must also recognize our team for the concern and commitment they have shown to our residents and one another during this challenging time. Our mission has never been more meaningful.

As always, if you have any questions, please feel free to contact the campus administrators or me. We will assist you in any way possible.

RJHC/HSCL: Krista Mattox: 503-320-0807
RSM: Vivian Villegas: 1-360-936-2694

With love, honor, and respect,

Kimberly Fuson
Chief Executive Officer
503-504-5277

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF: March 11, 2021:

Dear Colleagues, Residents, Families, and Friends,

It’s two days until Cedar Sinai Park’s Heart Is Where The Home Is Annual Benefit! We are thrilled to be hosting 310 guests thus far! There is room for many more, so if you haven’t already rsvp’d, please know we’d love to have you join us. We look forward to sharing an evening of haimische fun and joy!

We are also pleased to share that Kathy Thompson, CPA, our interim Finance Consultant, is joining CSP as our new CFO.

CSP COVID Updates:
Testing: Week March 1-7, 2021:

• No new positive results to date at RSM, RJHC/HSCL or SIHC.
  Visitation:
• Additional guidance from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid was received yesterday afternoon regarding “responsible expansion of visitation in nursing homes.” We are awaiting final guidance from the Oregon Department of Human Services. We also hope to learn whether this will include Assisted Living Communities. Our administrators will communicate the specifics directly to residents, families, and staff.

Together, let’s keep doing all we can to prevent the spread and shorten the duration of this pandemic:

• Wear the appropriate PPE (mask/shield/gown) as instructed.
• Make sure your mask has a good fit.
• Avoid touching your face.
• Wash Hands for 20 seconds with soap/water and use hand sanitizer.
• Social Socially Distance.

As always, if you have any questions, please feel free to contact the campus administrators or me. We will assist you in any way possible.

RSM: Vivian Villegas: 1-360-936-2694
HSCL/RJHC: Krista Mattox: 503-320-0807

With love, honor, and respect,

Kimberly Fuson
Chief Executive Officer
503-504-5277

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF: March 5, 2021:

Dear Colleagues, Residents, Families, and Friends,

We are pleased to share that the COVID-19 initial vaccine clinics at CSP and in our affordable housing communities downtown are almost complete. On our Boundary Street Campus, including Kehillah, a total of 97% of residents and 73% of staff will have been vaccinated after RSM’s third vaccine clinic on March 22, 2021. In our affordable housing communities 71% of residents and 77% of staff are vaccinated.

CSP continues to provide education and information regarding the COVID-19 vaccine to residents and staff. While the CSP team has done a remarkable job and continues to provide education and information about the vaccine, we did hope for 100% participation (aside from those residents and staff who for medical reasons were not able to be immunized).

We are awaiting final guidance from our pharmacy partners regarding post-clinic vaccine availability and process, including the brand/type of vaccine, to provide ongoing vaccinations for new residents and staff as well as for those not currently immunized who may change their minds.

Today’s article in the New Yorker gives interesting perspective regarding initial resistance to the COVID-19 vaccine: The Vaccine Resisters

CSP COVID Testing: Week February 22-29, 2021:

• No new positive results to date at RSM, RJHC/HSCL or SIHC.
• We will move to monthly testing of staff at Passover, provided the Portland metro area positivity rates remain below 5%.

Together, let’s keep doing all we can to prevent the spread and shorten the duration of this pandemic:

• Wear the appropriate PPE (mask/shield/gown) as instructed.
• Make sure your mask has a good fit.
• Avoid touching your face.
• Wash Hands for 20 seconds with soap/water and use hand sanitizer.
• Social Socially Distance.

As always, if you have any questions, please feel free to contact the campus administrators or me. We will assist you in any way possible.

RSM: Vivian Villegas: 1-360-936-2694
HSCL/RJHC: Krista Mattox: 503-320-0807

Good Shabbos,

Kimberly Fuson
Chief Executive Officer
503-504-5277

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF: February 25, 2021:

This week’s news is the “Whole Megillah”! We are happy to share that as of this afternoon, both RSM and RJHC/HSCL’s Executive Orders have been rescinded!

Staff: This means that we can return to KN95 or paper surgical masking with our protective eyewear/shields!

Residents and Families: This means that your administrators and their teams will be reaching out to you to share dates and processes for visitation, small group activity, and small group dining.

New: Indoor Visitation Program: In addition to compassionate care visits, while there are no active cases of COVID-19 on campus and as county positivity rates dictate, an additional 5 residents (5 at RJHC/HSCL and 5 at RSM) can entertain up to two visitors in person, in the privacy of their apartment/suite. Administrators and their teams will be communicating specific scheduling processes to residents and families directly.

Visitors must be able to adhere to the core principles of symptom screening on entry including handwashing, appropriate use of PPE, and other infection control protocols.

Per DHS, OHA, and Public Health, CSP staff must provide monitoring for those who may have difficulty adhering to core principles, such as children.

Note: CSP will rapid-test all indoor visitors prior to visiting at this time.

CSP COVID Testing: Week February 15-21, 2021:

• No new positive results to date at RSM, RJHC/HSCL or SIHC.

All staff who tested positive have recovered and returned to service at CSP!

As always, if you have any questions, please feel free to contact the campus administrators or me. We will assist you in any way possible.

RSM: Vivian Villegas: 1-360-936-2694
HSCL/RJHC: Krista Mattox: 503-320-0807

With love, honor, and respect,

Kimberly Fuson
Chief Executive Officer
503-504-5277

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF: February 18, 2021:

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF: February 11:

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF: February 10, 2021 (Update II):

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF: February 10, 2021:

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF: January 29, 2021:

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF: January 28, 2021:

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF: January 21, 2021:

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF: January 15, 2021:

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF: January 12, 2021:

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF: January 7, 2021:

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF: January 5, 2021:

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF: January 3, 2021:

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF: December 30, 2020:

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF: December 22, 2020 (Update II):

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF: December 22, 2020 (Update II):

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF: December 22, 2020:

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF: December 19, 2020:

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF: December 18, 2020:

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF: December 17, 2020 (Third Update):

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF: December 17, 2020 (Second Update):

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF: December 17, 2020 (Second Update):

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF: December 17, 2020:

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF: December 14, 2020:

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF: December 10, 2020:

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF: December 4, 2020:

Dear CSP Colleagues, Residents, Families and Friends,

Late this morning, Governor Kate Brown, Oregon Health Authority Director Patrick Allen, Oregon Health Authority Public Health Division Director Rachael Banks and State Health Officer and Epidemiologist Dean Sidelinger, MD addressed our state regarding the increase in positive cases and vaccine receipt, storage methodology and distribution.

In summary:

Oregon is expected to receive both the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines, beginning mid-December.

Staff in healthcare, including long-term care will be the first to receive the vaccine as will our residents.

To the point, this is the most dangerous time of the pandemic we have experienced thus far. Colleagues, residents, families and friends, PLEASE exercise your most vigilant effort and do everything you can to limit spread and exposure of COVID-19. Once we have the vaccine, we will still need to remain vigilant for the next few months.

For the entire press conference, including Q&A: https://youtu.be/r5GepC_3dd8

For more information regarding the vaccine from the Society for Post-Acute and Long-Term Care Medicine/American Medical Director Association:
http://paltc.org/sites/default/files/QA%20about%20the%20COVID-19%20Vaccine%20for%20PALTC%20Patients%20Family%20Member%20and%20Staff%20_%2012_1_20%20FINAL.pdf

CSP Testing Update:

RSM Testing: Resident Round 5, Staff Round 6:

• Residents: 49/128 results received: ALL NEGATIVE; 3 residents declined testing and our one resident who tested positive remains in the hospital recovering.
• Staff: 12/98 results received: ALL NEGATIVE

RJHC/HSCL Tenth Round Testing:

• Residents: CORRECTION: DHS/OHA determined no testing needed for residents this round due to all negative results the past two rounds.
• Staff: 52/132 results received: ALL NEGATIVE.

Sinai In Home Care (SIHC) Staff: 0/19 results received.

25 of 36 Oregon Counties are now considered in the
Extreme Risk category for COVID-19.

The Portland Metro Area is hovering just below 11%.
This means that CSP staff will be tested
twice weekly for at least the next two weeks.

CSP Testing Dates and Times:
RSM:
• Monday: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
• Friday: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

RJHC/HSCL/SIHC:
• Monday: 6:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
• Thursday: 6:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Developments are changing day by day, minute by minute. Our focus remains on the health and well-being of our community. We must also recognize our team for the concern and commitment they have shown to our residents during this challenging time. Our mission has never been more meaningful.

As always, if you have any questions, please feel free to contact the campus administrators or me. We will assist you in any way possible.

RSM: Vivian Villegas: 1-360-936-2694
RJHC/HSCL: Krista Mattox: 503-320-0807

Please take good care, WEAR A MASK, and have a safe Shabbos,

Kimberly Fuson
Chief Executive Officer
503-504-5277

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF: December 3, 2020:

Dear CSP Colleagues, Residents, Families and Friends,

A new health and safety framework will go into effect today, following the end of the 2-Week Freeze. The new framework uses four different risk levels for counties based on their level of COVID-19 spread—Extreme Risk, High Risk, Moderate Risk, and Lower Risk—to determine guidance for specific activities.

As of November 23rd, 21 of Oregon’s 36 counties were in the Extreme Risk category. Portland metro (Clackamas, Multnomah, and Washington counties) is currently in the Extreme Risk category.

On November 30, the Oregon Health Authority (OHA) reexamined county data to determine which counties qualify for each risk level on December 3. In each subsequent two-week period, the OHA will examine and publish county data weekly, but county risk levels will not change until the end of the second week. In the first week, counties will be given Warning Week data to prepare for potential risk level changes. In the second week, county risk levels will be updated based on that week’s data. More detailed information will be posted soon.

See: https://govstatus.egov.com/or-covid-19/ for risk tables by county and map as well as activity guidance and disease metrics tables.

Additionally, due to the ongoing COVID-19 surge, Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) and OHA are surveying health care facilities including nursing, assisted living and residential care facilities asking them to identify the most active temporary health care staffing firms that they have been using successfully.

The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) convened an emergency meeting on December 1, 2020 on upcoming COVID-19 vaccines and allocations of those. ACIP serves an advisory role to the Centers for Disease Control, and the panel recommended that residents of long-term care facilities and workers in health care facilities, including some aging services providers, receive top priority for COVID-19 vaccination.

Click the link below to read the full article from our trade Association LeadingAge to get an overview of key takeaways from the meeting, what it means for aging services, and next steps.

https://leadingage.org/regulation/cdc-panel-recommends-covid-19-vaccine-priorities-what-it-means-aging-services

We remain hopeful that the vaccine will be ready and available within the next few weeks.

CSP Testing Update:

RJHC/HSCL:
Ninth (9th) round Staff Results: All remaining results received: ALL NEGATIVE.

Tenth (10th) round testing initiated for residents and staff.

RSM:

Fifth (5th) round testing for residents and Sixth (6th) round testing for staff initiated.

As always, if you have any questions, please feel free to contact the campus administrators or me. We will assist you in any way possible.

HSCL/RJHC: Krista Mattox: 503-320-0807
RSM: Vivian Villegas: 1-360-936-2694

With love, honor, and respect,

Kimberly Fuson
Chief Executive Officer
503-504-5277

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF: December 2, 2020:

Dear CSP Colleagues, Residents, Families and Friends,

Last night we learned an additional staff member at RSM resident tested positive for COVID-19 (with mild symptoms). This employee was tested in our most recent round at RSM as well as their other employer and tested negative, then began to show symptoms and tested outside of CSP. We have notified Public Health (OHA), the Oregon Department of Human Services Safety, Oversight and Quality Unit (DHS/SOQ) and the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) as required.

As in all cases, contact tracing is performed and testing will continue weekly at this time cross-campus per protocol. Should Multnomah County rates exceed 10%, we will initiate twice-per-week testing.

Again, we ask that our staff, residents and families help us and do all you can to support our community by following the recommendations set forth by the CDC:

• Wear the appropriate PPE (mask/shield/gown) as instructed.
• Avoid touching your face.
• Washing Hands for 20 seconds with soap and water and use hand sanitizer.
• Social Distancing/staying home if possible – at least six (6) feet away from others.
• Self-isolating if showing any signs or symptoms of COVID-19.
• Seek medical assistance as necessary.

Please know we are taking every step as recommended by authorities to contain the spread, and then some. We want to make residents, their families, and our dedicated staff aware of this situation and reassure everyone that we are on top of it.

Developments are changing day by day, minute by minute. Our focus remains on the health and well-being of our community. We must also recognize our team for the concern and commitment they have shown to our residents during this challenging time. Our mission has never been more meaningful.

Please join me in sending healing energy to our resident and staff.

With love, honor, and respect,

Kimberly Fuson
Chief Executive Officer
503-504-5277

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF: November 30, 2020:

Dear CSP Colleagues, Residents, Families and Friends,

Today we learned an RSM resident who in the last four days tested negative for COVID-19, tested positive this morning. With the most recent round of staff testing, one (1) RSM staff member’s results were also positive. We have notified Public Health (OHA), the Oregon Department of Human Services Safety, Oversight and Quality Unit (DHS/SOQ) and the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) as required.

As in all cases, contact tracing is performed and
testing will continue weekly at this time cross-campus per protocol.

Again, we ask that our staff, residents and families help us and do all you can to support our community by following the recommendations set forth by the CDC:

• Wear the appropriate PPE (mask/shield/gown) as instructed.
• Avoid touching your face.
• Washing Hands for 20 seconds with soap and water and use hand sanitizer.
• Social Distancing/staying home if possible – at least six (6) feet away from others.
• Self-isolating if showing any signs or symptoms of COVID-19.
• Seek medical assistance as necessary.

Please know we are taking every step as recommended by authorities to contain the spread, and then some. We want to make residents, their families, and our dedicated staff aware of this situation and reassure everyone that we are on top of it.

CSP Testing updates:

RJHC/HSCL:

• Eighth (8th) and Ninth (9th) round Resident Results: All results received for both rounds of testing. ALL NEGATIVE. One resident declined testing and is self-quarantining in their suite.
• Eighth (8th) Round Staff Results: All results received; 123/125 NEGATIVE; our two newest positive staff remain home recuperating. Our three staff who tested positive last month remain home recuperating as well.
• Ninth (9th) Round Staff Results: 98/123 results received: ALL NEGATIVE; staff home recuperating will resume testing with CSP when symptom-free and ready to return to work, unless their physicians indicate otherwise.

RSM:

• Fourth (4th) Round Resident Results: All results received: ALL NEGATIVE;
  • 7 residents declined testing and are self-quarantining in their apartments.
• Fifth (5th) Round Staff Results: All results received: 97 NEGATIVE, 1 POSITIVE. Our staff member who tested positive 4th round remains at home recuperating and will resume will resume testing with CSP when symptom-free and ready to return to work, unless their physician indicates otherwise. This newly positive staff member is asymptomatic but will remain at home until testing negative.

As we know, developments are changing day by day, minute by minute. Our focus remains on the health and well-being of our community and our mission has never been more critical. Deep gratitude to the leadership and staff of RSM and RJHC/HSCL for immediately responding to these positive results with the highest level of safety and precaution.

Please join me in sending healing energy to our resident and staff.

With love, honor, and respect,

Kimberly Fuson
Chief Executive Officer
503-504-5277

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF: November 24, 2020:

Dear CSP Colleagues, Residents, Families and Friends,

During this special time of giving thanks amongst the backdrop of the pandemic, we find ourselves in a place none of us could have thought possible a year ago.  You have been resilient, compassionate, dedicated, and supportive!  And for that and every day we are thankful to you!

Yesterday we learned a staff member tested positive for COVID-19 at both RSM and HSCL*. We have notified Public Health (OHA), the Oregon Department of Human Services Safety, Oversight and Quality Unit (DHS/SOQ) and the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) as required.

CSP Testing Update:

RJHC/HSCL:
Eighth (8th) round testing:

• Residents: 7/58 results received: ALL NEGATIVE; two residents declined testing.
• Staff: 119/125 results received: 117 NEGATIVE, 2 POSITIVE (*second positive is a staff member who was home recuperating from coronavirus, tested negative, returned work, had two negative tests and on this round once again tested positive, with no symptoms). This staff member has been returned home until negative results received.

Ninth (9th) round resident and staff testing required per OHA/DHS.
scheduled Wednesday-Friday of this week.

RSM:

• Residents: Third (3rd) round testing: 126/128 results received: ALL NEGATIVE; Five (5) residents declined testing.
• Staff: Fourth (4th) round testing: 92/94 results received: 91 NEGATIVE, 1 POSITIVE. We are sending healing energy to our staff member, who thankfully has very mild symptoms.

Fourth (4th) round resident testing required per OHA/DHS completed
Monday, November 12, 2020; Fifth (5th) round testing for staff
initiated yesterday and will be completed today.

We will continue to provide updates regularly.

Again, we recommend residents remain on campus for the Thanksgiving holiday.
CSP’s leadership will be onsite to share the day with residents and staff.

Family and friends, please strongly consider staying “small and safe” this Thanksgiving.

Please see the guidance links below:

https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/ORDHS/2020/11/23/file_attachments/1609078/Holiday%20Guidelines%2020201123.pdf

https://www.cms.gov/files/document/covid-facility-holiday-recommendations.pdf

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/daily-life-coping/holidays.html

As always, if you have any questions, please feel free to contact the campus administrators or me. We will assist you in any way possible.

HSCL/RJHC: Krista Mattox: 503-320-0807
RSM: Vivian Villegas: 1-360-936-2694

With love, honor, and respect,

Kimberly Fuson
Chief Executive Officer
503-504-5277

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF: November 20, 2020:

Dear CSP Colleagues, Residents, Families and Friends,

Today we learned a staff member tested positive for COVID-19 at both RSM and HSCL. Contact tracing for each staff member determined both were exposed outside of campus. We have notified Public Health (OHA), the Oregon Department of Human Services Safety, Oversight and Quality Unit (DHS/SOQ) and the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) as required.

Due to the continued rise in COVID-19 cases in our region, we strongly encourage residents to remain on campus for the Thanksgiving holiday.

Again, we ask that our staff, residents and families help us and do all you can to support our community by following the recommendations set forth by the CDC:

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/daily-life-coping/holidays.html

• Wear the appropriate PPE (mask/shield/gown) as instructed.
• Avoid touching your face.
• Washing Hands for 20 seconds with soap and water and use hand sanitizer.
• Social Distancing/staying home if possible – at least six (6) feet away from others.
• Self-isolating if showing any signs or symptoms of COVID-19.
• Seek medical assistance as necessary.

Please know we are taking every step as recommended by the authorities to contain the spread, and then some. We want to make residents, their families, and our dedicated staff aware of this situation and reassure everyone that we are on top of it.

CSP Testing updates:

RJHC/HSCL:
Seventh (8th) round testing (will now include residents due to today’s positive):

• Residents: Testing in process
• Staff: 54/125 results received: 53 NEGATIVE, 1POSITIVE

RSM:

• Residents: Third (3rd) round testing: 126/128 results received: ALL NEGATIVE
  • 5 residents declined testing and are self-quarantining in their apartments.
• Staff: Fourth (4th) round testing: 56/94 results received: 55 NEGATIVE, 1 POSITIVE.

As always, if you have any questions, please feel free to contact the campus administrators or me. We will assist you in any way possible.

RSM: Vivian Villegas: 1-360-936-2694
RJHC/HSCL: Krista Mattox: 503-320-0807

From all of us at CSP, please have a safe Shabbat!

Kimberly Fuson
Chief Executive Officer
503-504-5277

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF: November 19, 2020:

Dear CSP Colleagues, Residents, Families and Friends,

In Good to Great, Jim Collins told the story of Admiral James Stockdale who was a POW during the Vietnam War. Collins notes, “It just seemed so bleak—the uncertainty of his fate, the brutality of his captors, and so forth…how on earth did he deal with it…?”

When Collins asked that very question directly to Stockdale, he replied, “I never doubted not only that I would get out, but also that I would prevail in the end and turn the experience into the defining event of my life, which, in retrospect, I would not trade.”

“You must never confuse faith that you will prevail in the end
which you can never afford to lose
with the discipline to confront the most brutal facts of your current reality,
whatever they might be.” ~ Admiral James Stockdale

This is the Stockdale Paradox.

We are facing global challenges now that at times feel as if they are insurmountable. We feel frightened, unsure, worried, confused, overwhelmed, angry, sad, anxious.

Let’s take a moment to breathe and remember Admiral Stockdale and reflect on the Stockdale Paradox. Let’s share our worries with one another. Let’s shed denial and embrace clear vision of next steps.

Let’s seek advice, consolation, support, and community. Let’s offer our gifts to the collective. Let’s call forth our creativity, our calm, our compassion, and our generous hearts.

Let’s confront the brutal facts of COVID-19 and never let go of the knowing that we will prevail over this virus.

CSP Update:

I’m sad to share that today we learned an additional private duty caregiver at RSM and an HSCL staff member tested positive for COVID-19. Contact tracing determined both were exposed outside of campus. We have notified Public Health (OHA), the Oregon Department of Human Services Safety, Oversight and Quality Unit (DHS/SOQ) and the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) as required.

This week, Moderna and Pfizer released interim results from their ongoing COVID-19 vaccine trials showing results that the vaccines are about 95% effective at preventing COVID-19 infection. Both companies have also announced that they will be submitting emergency use authorization (EUA) requests to the FDA in the coming weeks. This is very optimistic news.

Answers to COVID-19 vaccine questions from our partner, Consonus Pharmacy:

http://www.consonushealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/FAQ-COVID19-Vaccine_11.19.2020.pdf?utm_source=Email&utm_medium=Email&utm_campaign=CS_Email_NovNewsletter_VaccineFAQpdf

We will continue to provide updates regularly.

As always, if you have any questions, please feel free to contact the campus administrators or me. We will assist you in any way possible.

HSCL/RJHC: Krista Mattox: 503-320-0807
RSM: Vivian Villegas: 1-360-936-2694

Please take good care of yourselves and one another.

With love, honor, respect, faith, and strength,

Kimberly Fuson
Chief Executive Officer
503-504-5277

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF: November 17, 2020:

Dear CSP Colleagues, Residents, Families and Friends,

I’m sad to share that this morning we learned an additional private duty caregiver at RSM tested positive for COVID-19. We have notified Public Health (OHA), the Oregon Department of Human Services Safety, Oversight and Quality Unit (DHS/SOQ) and the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) as required.

CSP Testing updates: Please note that weekly testing of staff will continue as our county rate per The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid’s (CMS) most recent update is 8.6% (November 11, 2020 and will be updated again November 25, 2020).

RJHC/HSCL: Seventh (7th) round testing results:

• Residents: Due to100% negative results in second round testing, DHS/SOQ and Multnomah County Public Health determined additional testing was not indicated.
• Staff: 125/125 results received: ALL NEGATIVE.

Eighth (8th) round staff testing required per OHA/DHS.
Scheduled Wednesday-Thursday of this week.

RSM: Third (3rd) round testing results:

• Residents: Due to100% negative results in second round testing, DHS/SOQ and Multnomah County Public Health determined additional testing was not indicated.
• Staff: 92/92 results received: 91 NEGATIVE. One staff member who tested negative second round tested positive this round. Our other staff member who originally tested positive continues to recuperate at home.

Third (3rd) round Resident testing for residents initiated today due to
the new positive and out of an abundance of caution and care.

Fourth (4th) round Staff testing scheduled Wednesday-Thursday of this week.

Again, we ask that our staff, residents and families help us and do all you can to support our community by following the recommendations set forth by the CDC:

• Wear the appropriate PPE (mask/shield/gown) as instructed.
• Avoid touching your face.
• Washing Hands for 20 seconds with soap and water and use hand sanitizer.
• Social Distancing/staying home if possible – at least six (6) feet away from others.
• Self-isolating if showing any signs or symptoms of COVID-19.
• Seek medical assistance as necessary.

Developments are changing day by day, minute by minute. Our focus remains on the health and well-being of our community. We must also recognize our team for the concern and commitment they have shown to our residents during this challenging time. Our mission has never been more meaningful. As always, if you have any questions, please feel free to contact the campus administrators or me. We will assist you in any way possible.

RSM: Vivian Villegas: 1-360-936-2694
RJHC/HSCL: Krista Mattox: 503-320-0807

With love, honor, and respect,

Kimberly Fuson
Chief Executive Officer
503-504-5277

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF: November 13, 2020:

Dear CSP Colleagues, Residents, Families and Friends,

Since our communication this morning, two major additions to COVID -19 mitigation were announced by Governor Kate Brown:

1. A statewide Two-Week Freeze, implementing new measures to limit gatherings and stop the rapid spread of COVID-19 across Oregon. The Two-Week Freeze measures will be in effect from Nov. 18 through at least Dec. 2, 2020. Governor Brown was clear that COVID-19 hotspot counties “will likely need to stay in the Freeze for much longer than two weeks. Multnomah County, for example, will be in this Freeze for at least four weeks. Our actions right now, no matter where in the state you live, are critical.”

CSP Communal dining and indoor visitation will be placed on hold until the “Freeze” has been lifted.

Compassionate care, outdoor and window visitation will continue. Please remember that window visits must be conducted with the windows closed.

Links below to Governor Brown’s detailed remarks and press conference:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1j1WR4sxEMz35wVcWZIea0vQZ0LLNJXuN/view
https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=youtu.be&v=_et0zYftCsw&app=desktop

2. Governor Kate Brown, California Governor Gavin Newsom, and Washington Governor Jay Inslee issued travel advisories today urging visitors entering their states or returning home from travel outside these states to self-quarantine to slow the spread of the virus. The travel advisories urge against non-essential out-of-state travel, ask people to self-quarantine for 14 days after arriving from another state or country, and encourage residents to stay local.

Non-essential travel includes travel that is considered tourism or recreational in nature.
Essential travel includes: work and study, critical infrastructure support, economic services and supply chains, health, immediate medical care, and safety and security.

https://www.oregon.gov/newsroom/Pages/NewsDetail.aspx?newsid=37700

As always, if you have any questions, please feel free to contact the campus administrators or me. We will assist you in any way possible.

RSM: Vivian Villegas: 1-360-936-2694
RJHC/HSCL: Krista Mattox: 503-320-0807

Good Shabbos to all, and please take care of each other and yourselves!

Kimberly Fuson
Chief Executive Officer
503-504-5277

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF: November 13, 2020:

Dear CSP Colleagues, Residents, Families and Friends,

We are pleased to share the RSM Executive Order has been lifted. That being said, as anticipated, Governor Kate Brown announced that four additional counties must follow measures to pause social activities, including prohibiting indoor visitation at all long-term care facilities, to help stop the rapid spread of COVID-19. In addition to Malheur, Marion, Multnomah, Jackson and Umatilla, the following counties were added: Baker, Clackamas, Union and Washington.

As we shared last week, the two-week pause is being instituted in counties with a case rate above 200 cases per 100,000 people over a two-week period, or more than 60 cases over a two-week period for counties with less than 30,000. Clackamas and Washington Counties were added due to their case rates being just under the threshold and both counties registering significant daily case counts in the past several days.

CSP Testing updates:

RJHC/HSCL:
Sixth (6th) round testing:

• Residents: All results received: ALL NEGATIVE. Our two residents who declined testing continue to self-quarantine in their private suites and remain asymptomatic.
• Staff: All results received: ALL NEGATIVE, except our one staff member who is now asymptomatic but continues to test positive. They will return to work once a negative test is received.

Our other two RJHC/HSCL staff continue to have symptoms that are resolving and are recuperating at home under the supervision of their personal physician. Please join me in sending prayers and healing energy.

Seventh (7th) round testing required per OHA/DHS.
Scheduled Wednesday-Friday of this week.

RSM: Second (2nd) round testing:

• Residents: All remaining results received: ALL NEGATIVE. Our six residents who declined testing continue to self-quarantine in their apartments and remain asymptomatic.
• Staff: All remaining results received: ALL NEGATIVE, except for our original staff member, who continues to test positive and is recuperating under the supervision of their personal physician. Please join me in sending prayers and healing energy.

Third (3rd) round testing completed Thursday of this week, results pending.

We will continue to test weekly at this time due
to the incidence of new cases in our county.

This is the most dangerous time of the pandemic we have experienced thus far. Colleagues, residents, families and friends, PLEASE exercise your most vigilant effort and do everything you can to limit spread and exposure of COVID-19:

• Wear the appropriate PPE.
• Social Distance – remain at least six (6) feet away from others.
• Wash Hands for 20 seconds with soap and water/use hand sanitizer.
• Avoid touching your face.
• Report immediately and self-isolate if showing any signs or symptoms of COVID-19.
• Seek medical assistance as necessary.

And per the Governor: From November 11-25, 2020 (may be extended):

• Limit social gatherings to 3 or less.
• Limit social events to one household only or cap group visits to six (6) people.

Thank you all for your support. We will continue to provide updates regularly.

As always, if you have any questions, please feel free to contact the campus administrators or me. We will assist you in any way possible.

HSCL/RJHC: Krista Mattox: 503-320-0807
RSM: Vivian Villegas: 1-360-936-2694

Kimberly Fuson
Chief Executive Officer
503-504-5277

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF: November 9, 2020:

Dear CSP Colleagues, Residents, Families and Friends,

What an inspiring morning we’ve had, learning President-elect Joe Biden appointed a 13-member coronavirus task force:
https://www.nytimes.com/live/2020/11/09/us/joe-biden-trump/biden-announces-a-13-member-virus-task-force-as-cases-soar

Among those selected is none other than one of our most trusted health advisors and advocates, Atul Gawande, MD, MPH, surgeon, writer, and public health researcher. You may have read his most recent book (2014) Being Mortal; or his articles regarding coronavirus in the New Yorker:

May 13, 2020: https://www.newyorker.com/science/medical-dispatch/amid-the-coronavirus-crisis-a-regimen-for-reentry

September 2, 2020: https://www.newyorker.com/science/medical-dispatch/we-can-solve-the-coronavirus-test-mess-now-if-we-want-to

It is uplifting to see the names on this taskforce; so many of my colleagues and I are heartened and hopeful.

CSP Testing updates:

RJHC/HSCL:
Sixth (6th) round testing:
• Residents: 50/59 results received: ALL NEGATIVE. Two residents declined testing and are self-quarantining.
• Staff: 90/132 result received: ALL NEGATIVE.

Seventh (7th) round testing required per OHA/DHS.
Scheduled Wednesday-Friday of this week.

RSM: Second (2nd) round testing:
• Residents: 129/129 results received: ALL NEGATIVE.
• Staff: 84/90 result received: ALL NEGATIVE. Our original staff member who tested positive continues to test positive and asymptomatic. Our second staff member who tested positive has now tested negative.

Third (3rd) round testing required per OHA/DHS.
Scheduled for Wednesday-Thursday of this week.

We will continue to test weekly at this time due to the incidence of new cases in our county and our current positive cases at both JRHC/HSCL and RSM.

We want to assure you that we have educated our staff on infection control processes and procedures to keep our residents and employees safe and will continue to take the necessary precautions. We ask that you do the same:

• Wear the appropriate PPE.
• Social Distancing/staying home if possible – at least six (6) feet away from others.
• Wash Hands for 20 seconds with soap and water/use hand sanitizer.
• Avoid touching your face.
• Report immediately and self-isolate if showing any signs or symptoms of COVID-19.
• Seek medical assistance as necessary.

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/index.html

As I’ve said before (and there’s really no better way to say it clearly), developments are changing day by day, minute by minute. Our focus remains on the health and well-being of our community. We must also continue to recognize our team for the concern and commitment they have shown to our residents during this challenging time. Truly, our mission has never been more meaningful.

Thank you all for your support. We will continue to provide updates regularly.

As always, if you have any questions, please feel free to contact the campus administrators or me. We will assist you in any way possible.

HSCL/RJHC: Krista Mattox: 503-320-0807
RSM: Vivian Villegas: 1-360-936-2694

Kimberly Fuson
Chief Executive Officer
503-504-5277

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF: November 6, 2020:

Dear CSP Colleagues, Residents, Families and Friends,

In a press briefing this afternoon, Governor Brown announced a “two week pause” in five Oregon counties as a first step to control the virus due to a concern over the rate of increasing COVID-19 cases. This week Oregon experienced 3,542 new COVID-19 cases (805 yesterday and 770 today) – an increase of 34% over the previous week. The increasing positivity rate has resulted in increased hospitalizations with concerns over future capacity if the rate continues to escalate. Data from the Oregon Health Authority (OHA) indicates the increased spread is driven through small informal gatherings and not due to large workplace or other outbreaks and that Oregon’s sporadic cases, those not traced to a source, are increasing.

The metric being used to place a county in pause is 200 new COVID-19 cases per 100,000 people over 14 straight days. The two week pause goes into effect next Wednesday, November 11 in Malheur, Marion, Multnomah, Jackson and Umatilla counties.

Additional counties including Washington, Clackamas, Baker and Linn are on the cusp and could be placed on pause if their positive cases reach the same metric. OHA will be updating their data next week and expects other counties to be placed on pause.

The pause does the following:

• Prohibits (“pauses”) indoor visitation in long term care facilities (compassionate care and outdoor visits are not affected);
• Recommends limiting social events to one household only or capping group visits to six (6) persons and that social gatherings be limited to 3 or less over 2 weeks;
• Encourages people to work at home;
• Places a 50-person maximum capacity at indoor establishments (includes gyms, fitness organizations/studios, bowling alleys, ice rinks, indoor sports, pools, and museums) and reduces restaurant party sizes to a maximum of six (6);
• Does not change policies in effect for faith-based gatherings.

Both the Governor and Dean Sidelinger, MD, MSEd, FAAP Oregon Public Health Division’s Health Officer and State Epidemiologist asked people to limit their holiday gatherings according to the recommendations and that if they’ve already made plans to please change them. Dr. Sidelinger stated a negative test is not a free pass and stressed the COVID-19 virus is not like the flu – the death rate for COVID-19 is twenty times higher than that for the flu. Governor Brown stated the “pause” is a wake-up call for Oregonians and that “if we don’t slow the spread of the virus there will be more closures.”

For more information:

https://www.oregon.gov/newsroom/Pages/NewsDetail.aspx?newsid=37671

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1-q7KEAXEcryFx6pGoNRsvrM4DTWTLdGs/view

As always, if you have any questions, please feel free to contact the campus administrators or me. We will assist you in any way possible.

HSCL/RJHC: Krista Mattox: 503-320-0807
RSM: Vivian Villegas: 1-360-936-2694

With love, honor, and respect,

Kimberly Fuson
Chief Executive Officer
503-504-5277

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF: November 6, 2020:

Dear CSP Colleagues, Residents, Families and Friends,

Such an important week in the history of our country! It seems appropriate to share the following article about the history of voter turnout in our United States of America: These US Elections Saw the Highest Voter Turnout Rates.

And, our testing updates:

RJHC/HSCL:
Fifth(5th) round testing update:

• Residents: Remaining results received: All negative. The two residents who declined testing remain asymptomatic and are self-isolating.
• Staff: 123/130 results received: 122/130 negative; the one positive is one of our staff member who tested positive originally and will continue to remain at home until negative.

Sixth (6th) round testing initiated for residents and staff.

RSM: Second (2nd) round testing in process.

Again, we ask that our staff, residents and families help us and do all you can to support our community by following the recommendations set forth by the CDC:

• Wear the appropriate PPE.
• Social Distancing/staying home if possible – at least six (6) feet away from others.
• Wash Hands for 20 seconds with soap and water/use hand sanitizer.
• Avoid touching your face.
• Report immediately and self-isolate if showing any signs or symptoms of COVID-19.
• Seek medical assistance as necessary.

As always, if you have any questions, please feel free to contact the campus administrators or me. We will assist you in any way possible.

HSCL/RJHC: Krista Mattox: 503-320-0807
RSM: Vivian Villegas: 1-360-936-2694

Good Shabbos,

Kimberly Fuson
Chief Executive Officer
503-504-5277

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF: October 31, 2020:

Dear CSP Colleagues, Residents, Families and Friends,

I’m sad to share that last night we learned an additional staff member at RSM tested positive for COVID-19. Thank goodness our wonderful staff member is asymptomatic. We will initiate second round testing late next week at RSM due to this new positive.

Testing Updates as of 1:45 pm today:

RSM:
Residents: 133/133 results received: All Negative. The residents who declined testing continue to quarantine in their apartments.

Staff: 92/92 results received: 91 Negative, one (1) new positive. Both RSM staff members testing positive continue to be asymptomatic. The private duty caregiver continues to recuperate at home.

RJHC/HSCL:
Fifth Round Testing:
Residents: 52/63 results received: All Negative; Two residents declined testing and are self-quarantining at this time.

Staff: 86/130 results received: All Negative;
Both HSCL staff members that were hospitalized are now home recuperating. Please join me in sending prayers and healing energy.

We have notified the Oregon Health Authority (OHA), the Oregon Department of Human Services Safety, Oversight and Quality Unit (DHS/SOQ) and the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention as required.

Again, we ask that our staff, residents and families help us and do all you can to support our community by following the recommendations set forth by the CDC:

• Wear the appropriate PPE (mask/shield/gown) as instructed.
• Avoid touching your face.
• Washing Hands for 20 seconds with soap and water and use hand sanitizer.
• Social Distancing/staying home if possible – at least six (6) feet away from others.
• Self-isolating if showing any signs or symptoms of COVID-19.
• Seek medical assistance as necessary.

Please know we are taking every step as recommended by authorities to contain the spread, and then some. We want to make residents, their families, and our dedicated staff aware of this situation and reassure everyone that we are on top of it.

As we know, developments are changing day by day, minute by minute. Our focus remains on the health and well-being of our community. Deep gratitude to the leadership and staff of RJHC/HSCL and RSM for immediately responding to these positive results with the highest level of safety and precaution.

We continue to closely track incidences of coronavirus Multnomah County to guide us regarding ongoing testing requirements. Updates are documented Monday-Wednesday-Friday per the Public Health Department. Including the link below or those of you interested in following along*:

https://multco.us/novel-coronavirus-covid-19/regional-covid-19-data-dashboard
*There may be a difference in the numbers posted by Oregon Health Authority and Public Health due to a 24-48 hour data update lag.

As always, if you have any questions, please feel free to contact the campus administrators or me. We will assist you in any way possible.

HSCL/RJHC: Krista Mattox: 503-320-0807
RSM: Vivian Villegas: 1-360-936-2694

With love, honor and respect,

Kimberly Fuson
Chief Executive Officer
503-504-5277

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF: October 29, 2020:

Dear CSP Colleagues, Residents, Families and Friends,

It feels like we need a little bit of extra light and learning this week; a reprieve from all the “news.” Given that Halloween is on Shabbat this year, I am sharing this article I found from Rabbis without Borders, a “dynamic forum for exploring contemporary issues in the Jewish world and beyond. Written by rabbis of different denominations, viewpoints, and parts of the country, Rabbis Without Borders is a project of Clal – The National Jewish Center for Learning and Leadership.” Please give it a read: www.myjewishlearning.com/rabbis-without-borders/challahween/.

Testing Updates:

RJHC/HSCL:
Fourth (4th) round testing update:

• The remainder of staff tests received: All Negative
• We are relieved to share our two residents who tested positive this round, tested negative upon additional testing at the hospital and have returned to RJHC/HSCL.

RJHC/HSCL:
Fifth round testing update:

• Initiated for all residents and staff; results pending.

RSM:

• Residents: 127/133 tests returned: All Negative. Five (5) residents declined testing and are self-quarantining at this time.
• Staff testing in process.

Again, we ask that our staff, residents and families help us and do all you can to support our community by following the recommendations set forth by the CDC:

• Wear the appropriate PPE.
• Social Distancing/staying home if possible – at least six (6) feet away from others.
• Wash Hands for 20 seconds with soap and water/use hand sanitizer.
• Avoid touching your face.
• Report immediately and self-isolate if showing any signs or symptoms of COVID-19.
• Seek medical assistance as necessary.

As always, if you have any questions, please feel free to contact the campus administrators or me. We will assist you in any way possible.

HSCL/RJHC: Krista Mattox: 503-320-0807
RSM: Vivian Villegas: 1-360-936-2694

With love, honor and respect,

Kimberly Fuson
Chief Executive Officer
503-504-5277

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF: October 25, 2020:

Dear CSP Colleagues, Residents, Families and Friends,

I’m sad to share that last night we learned an additional resident from HSCL tested positive for COVID-19 on fourth round serial testing. Thank goodness this resident is asymptomatic. This resident has been transported to the hospital for further observation and treatment.

RJHC/HSCL:
Third Round Testing:
All remaining staff and resident results returned: ALL NEGATIVE (except for the positive previously identified);

Fourth Round Testing:
Residents: 46/59 tests returned: 44 NEGATIVE, 2 POSITIVE results. Two residents declined testing and are self-quarantining at this time.

Staff: Testing in process.

RSM:
Resident and Staff testing initiated.

We have notified the Oregon Health Authority (OHA), the Oregon Department of Human Services Safety, Oversight and Quality Unit (DHS/SOQ) and the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention as required.

Again, we ask that our staff, residents and families help us and do all you can to support our community by following the recommendations set forth by the CDC:

• Wear the appropriate mask/face covering.
• Social Distancing/staying home if possible – at least six (6) feet away from others.
• Washing Hands for 20 seconds with soap and water.
• Avoid touching your face.
• Self-isolating if showing any signs or symptoms of COVID-19.
• Seek medical assistance as necessary.

Please know we are taking every step as recommended by authorities to contain the spread, and then some. We want to make residents, their families, and our dedicated staff aware of this situation and reassure everyone that we are on top of it.

As we know, developments are changing day by day, minute by minute. Our focus remains on the health and well-being of our community. Deep gratitude to the leadership and staff of RJHC/HSCL and RSM for immediately responding to these positive results with the highest level of safety and precaution.
Thank you all for your support. We will continue to provide updates regularly.

As always, if you have any questions, please feel free to contact the campus administrators or me. We will assist you in any way possible.

HSCL/RJHC: Krista Mattox: 503-320-0807
RSM: Vivian Villegas: 1-360-936-2694

With love, honor and respect,

Kimberly Fuson
Chief Executive Officer
503-504-5277

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF: October 23, 2020:

Dear CSP Colleagues, Residents, Families and Friends,

I’m sad to share that tonight we learned a resident at RJHC tested positive for COVID-19 on fourth round serial testing. Thank goodness our beloved resident is asymptomatic. This resident has been transported to the hospital for further observation and treatment.

At the same time, we learned that an RSM staff member, who recently returned from out of state, as well as a private duty caregiver have both tested positive for COVID-19. The private duty caregiver is symptomatic. Our staff member is not.

We have notified the Oregon Health Authority (OHA), the Oregon Department of Human Services Safety, Oversight and Quality Unit (DHS/SOQ) and the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention as required.

We continue to actively monitor all residents for COVID-19 symptoms. As a reminder, infection control is observed intently and all community staff are screened daily before their shifts and have been wearing medical grade face masks and eye protection during their shifts.

With the advent of these positive results we initiated the following additional safety precautions this evening at RSM (already in place at RJHC/HSCL):

• All staff to wear N95 masks only until we are once again COVID-free.
• All staff to wear shields only until we are once again COVID-free.
• Outdoor visitation is suspended. Families may continue window visits with the windows closed.
• Small group indoor activities have been suspended.

Again, we ask that our residents and families help us and do all you can to support our community by following the recommendations set forth by the CDC:

• Wear the appropriate mask/face covering.
• Social Distancing/staying home if possible – at least six (6) feet away from others.
• Washing Hands for 20 seconds with soap and water.
• Avoid touching your face.
• Self-isolating if showing any signs or symptoms of COVID-19.
• Seek medical assistance as necessary.

Please know we are taking every step as recommended by authorities to contain the spread, and then some. We want to make residents, their families, and our dedicated staff aware of this situation and reassure everyone that we are on top of it.

As we know, developments are changing day by day, minute by minute. Our focus remains on the health and well-being of our community. Deep gratitude to the leadership and staff of RJHC/HSCL and RSM for immediately responding to these positive results with the highest level of safety and precaution.

Thank you all for your support. We will continue to provide updates regularly.

As always, if you have any questions, please feel free to contact the campus administrators or me. We will assist you in any way possible.

HSCL/RJHC: Krista Mattox: 503-320-0807
RSM: Vivian Villegas: 1-360-936-2694

With love, honor and respect,

Kimberly Fuson
Chief Executive Officer
503-504-5277

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF: October 22, 2020:

Dear CSP Colleagues, Residents, Families and Friends,

This week I’d like to begin my weekly communication by sharing an inspirational article. Pour your favorite beverage, put on your slippers, sink into your favorite chair, and savor: https://www.giveitlove.com.

RJHC/HSCL Testing update:
We are pleased to share the remaining second round staff test result returned negative.

Third round testing update:
• Residents: 49/59 test results received: ALL NEGATIVE. Two residents declined testing and are self-quarantining at this time.
• Staff: 136/140 Staff test results received: ALL NEGATIVE.

Fourth round testing for residents and staff is in process.

As Multnomah County coronavirus rate is at 8.6%, weekly testing of RJHC/HSCL staff will continue until the rate is down to 5% or under (weekly testing pertains to all nursing homes within the county. Should rates increase to 10%, staff testing will be conducted twice weekly per OHA, Public Health and DHS).

We are awaiting final guidance from OHA and DHS regarding ongoing testing statewide for assisted living.

As always, if you have any questions, please feel free to contact the campus administrators or me. We will assist you in any way possible.

HSCL/RJHC: Krista Mattox: 503-320-0807
RSM: Vivian Villegas: 1-360-936-2694

With love, honor and respect,

Kimberly Fuson
Chief Executive Officer
503-504-5277

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF: October 16, 2020:

Dear CSP Colleagues, Residents, Families and Friends,

After reading the last line in each book of the Torah, it is customary to chant together: Chazak, Chazak, V’Nitchazeik!–Be strong! Be strong! And let us strengthen one another!

On that note, this week has been a dichotomous testament to community strength at Cedar Sinai Park:

We’ve been blessed to create different and distanced ways to celebrate the joy of Sukkot, Shemini Atzeret, and Simchat Torah, while at the same time we continue praying for the recovery of our beloved HSCL residents and staff who have been afflicted with the coronavirus.

And yet, we are saddened to share that one of our beloved residents took a turn for the worse and passed away yesterday afternoon.

While our HSCL staff member who was hospitalized returned home, another HSCL staff member has been hospitalized for coronavirus.

Current cases have been identified in only one of the households/greenhouses. All other households and all post-acute remain COVID-19 free at this time.

We’re blessed that RSM remains COVID-19 free at this time.

The number of coronavirus cases in is once again increasing in our state and across the country. We have seen an increase of cases in the general public, senior living and on university and college campuses, confirming that sharing space in close proximity for an extended period of time greatly increases the risk of spreading coronavirus.

Cedar Sinai Park is deeply grateful to the community for having the forethought to build all private rooms and en suite full baths at RJHC/HSCL.

As we enter the flu season along with battling coronavirus, we must all do our part in keeping ourselves and those we work, live with, and love as safe and healthy as possible:

• Wear the appropriate PPE in the correct manner.
• Wash hands frequently for 20 seconds with soap and water.
• Use hand sanitizer frequently.
• Avoid touching your face.
• Socially Distance-at least six (6) feet away from others.
• Self-isolate if showing any signs or symptoms of COVID-19.
• Seek medical assistance as necessary.

CSP Staff:

• Report ANY signs or symptoms of COVID-19 or influenza immediately to your supervisor.

CSP Staff and Residents:

• Influenza vaccinations for RSM and RJHC/HSCL residents and staff are scheduled for the next two weeks.

RJHC/HSCL second round testing update:

• Residents: 61/61 test results received: ALL NEGATIVE. Two residents declined testing and are self-quarantining at this time.
• Staff: 136/137 Staff test results received: 135 NEGATIVES, NO NEW POSITIVES.
  The one pending staff required a retest due to circumstances beyond our control.

Third round testing is in process for all RJHC/HSCL residents and staff.

We continue to actively monitor all residents for COVID-19 symptoms. As a reminder, infection control is observed intently and all community staff are screened daily before their shifts.

Please know we are taking every step as recommended by authorities to contain the virus, and then some.

As you can see (and I know this sounds redundant), developments truly change day by day, minute by minute. Our focus remains on the health and well-being of our community, mind, body and spirit. Our mission has never been more meaningful.

As we continue to struggle with world-wide pandemic, social injustice, and the proceedings leading up to this most important election, the action and compassion behind these words could not hold truer. “Chazak, Chazak, V’Nitchazeik” is an important reminder that together we’re stronger; and together we can inspire greater resilience, hope, and healing as a community.

As always, if you have any questions, please feel free to contact the campus administrators or me. We will assist you in any way possible.

HSCL/RJHC: Krista Mattox: 503-320-0807
RSM: Vivian Villegas: 1-360-936-2694

With love, honor and respect,

Kimberly Fuson
Chief Executive Officer
503-504-5277

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF: October 10, 2020:

Dear CSP Colleagues, Residents, Families and Friends,

Since our last communication, we are pleased to share the remaining initial COVID-19 test results were received: 12 Staff and two (2) residents: ALL NEGATIVE.

We have begun to receive second round test results:

Residents: 58/61 test results received: ALL NEGATIVE. Two residents declined testing and are self-quarantining at this time.

Staff: 70/137 Staff test results received: ALL NEGATIVE

One staff member had an additional second test performed due to feeling poorly. This result was received before CSP’s second round result: The result is POSITIVE. Our dear staff member is home and monitoring symptoms closely.

Unless the Oregon Health Authority (OHA), the Oregon Department of Human Services Safety, Oversight and Quality Unit (DHS/SOQ) or Multnomah County Public Health (MCPH) indicates otherwise, we will be initiating a third round of testing of all residents and staff at HSCL/RJHC Wednesday, October 14, 2020.

We continue to actively monitor all residents for COVID-19 symptoms. As a reminder, infection control is observed intently and all community staff are screened daily before their shifts.

Please know we are taking every step as recommended by authorities to contain the virus, and then some. We want to make residents, their families, and our dedicated staff aware of this situation and reassure everyone that we are on top of it.

Developments are changing day by day, minute by minute. Our focus remains on the health and well-being of our community. We must also recognize our team for the concern and commitment they have shown to our residents during this challenging time. Our mission has never been more meaningful.

Thank you all for your support. We will continue to provide updates regularly.

As always, if you have any questions, please feel free to contact the campus administrators or me. We will assist you in any way possible.

HSCL/RJHC: Krista Mattox: 503-320-0807
RSM: Vivian Villegas: 1-360-936-2694

With love, honor and respect,

Kimberly Fuson
Chief Executive Officer
503-504-5277

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF: October 8, 2020:

Dear CSP Colleagues, Residents, Families and Friends,

Since our last communication, we are pleased to share our beloved residents who tested positive are recovering well, and we expect all to return home to CSP.

We are saddened to share that one of our two cherished staff who tested positive was admitted to the hospital. We remain in close contact with both staff members and ask that you join us in sending prayers and healing energy.

Initial testing results:

Residents: 61/63 test results received: ALL NEGATIVE. Two residents declined testing and are self-quarantining at this time.

Staff: 123/135 Staff test results received: ALL NEGATIVE.

A second round of testing of all residents and staff at HSCL/RJHC will begin Friday, October 9, 2020, per instruction from the Oregon Health Authority (OHA), the Oregon Department of Human Services Safety, Oversight and Quality Unit (DHS/SOQ) and the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC).

We maintain vigilance regarding infection control processes and procedures to keep our residents and employees safe and will continue to take the necessary precautions. We remind you to do the same:

• Wear the appropriate PPE in the correct manner.
• Wash hands frequently for 20 seconds with soap and water.
• Use hand sanitizer frequently.
• Avoid touching your face.
• Socially Distance-at least six (6) feet away from others.
• Self-isolate if showing any signs or symptoms of COVID-19.
• Seek medical assistance as necessary.

Special Reminders:

• Outdoor visitation is on hold at this time.
• Window visits are OK (windows must be closed).
• All RJHC/HSCL staff to wear N95 masks only until we are once again COVID-free.
• All RJHC/HSCL staff to wear shields only until we are once again COVID-free.

Developments are changing day by day, minute by minute. Our focus remains on the health and well-being of our community. We must also recognize our team for the concern and commitment they have shown to our residents during this challenging time. Our mission has never been more meaningful.

Thank you all for your support. We will continue to provide updates regularly.

As always, if you have any questions, please feel free to contact the campus administrators or me. We will assist you in any way possible.

HSCL/RJHC: Krista Mattox: 503-320-0807
RSM: Vivian Villegas: 1-360-936-2694

With love, honor and respect,

Kimberly Fuson
Chief Executive Officer
503-504-5277

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF: October 4, 2020:

Dear CSP Colleagues, Residents, Families and Friends,

Yesterday evening and this morning, an additional employee and three residents at HSCL tested positive for COVID-19. Our two staff are recuperating at home and our residents are being closely monitored in the hospital with mild symptoms. The positive cases have been contained within a single household as of this writing.

We remain in close contact with the Oregon Health Authority (OHA), the Oregon Department of Human Services Safety, Oversight and Quality Unit (DHS/SOQ) and the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention as required.

We continue to actively monitor all residents for COVID-19 symptoms. As a reminder, infection control is observed intently and all community staff are screened daily before their shifts and have been wearing medical grade face masks and eye protection during their shifts.

We maintain vigilance regarding infection control processes and procedures to keep our residents and employees safe and will continue to take the necessary precautions. We ask that you do the same:

• Social Distancing/staying home if possible – at least six (6) feet away from others
• Washing Hands for 20 seconds with soap and water
• Avoid touching your face
• Self-isolating if showing any signs or symptoms of COVID-19
• Seek medical assistance as necessary

Developments are changing day by day, minute by minute. Our focus remains on the health and well-being of our community. We must also recognize our team for the concern and commitment they have shown to our residents during this challenging time. Our mission has never been more meaningful.

Thank you all for your support. We will continue to provide updates regularly.

As always, if you have any questions, please feel free to contact the campus administrators or me. We will assist you in any way possible.

HSCL/RJHC: Krista Mattox: 503-320-0807
RSM: Vivian Villegas: 1-360-936-2694

With love, honor and respect,

Kimberly Fuson
Chief Executive Officer
503-504-5277

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF: October 2, 2020:

Dear CSP Colleagues, Residents, Families and Friends,

Today an employee at The Harold Schnitzer Center for Living tested positive for COVID-19.

We have notified the Oregon Health Authority (OHA), the Oregon Department of Human Services Safety, Oversight and Quality Unit (DHS/SOQ) and the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention as required.

The Clinical Team initiated testing immediately for all RJHC/HSCL staff and residents.

We continue to actively monitor all residents for COVID-19 symptoms. As a reminder, infection control is observed intently and all community staff are screened daily before their shifts and have been wearing medical grade face masks and eye protection during their shifts.

With the advent of this positive result we initiated the following additional safety precautions:

• All RJHC/HSCL staff to wear N95 masks only until we are once again COVID-free.
• All RJHC/HSCL staff to wear shields only until we are once again COVID-free.
• Outdoor visitation is again on hold at this time.

Again, we ask that our residents and families help us and do all you can to support our community by following the recommendations set forth by the CDC:

• Wear the appropriate mask/face covering.
• Social Distancing/staying home if possible – at least six (6) feet away from others.
• Washing Hands for 20 seconds with soap and water.
• Avoid touching your face.
• Self-isolating if showing any signs or symptoms of COVID-19.
• Seek medical assistance as necessary.

Please know we are taking every step as recommended by authorities to contain the spread, and then some. We want to make residents, their families, and our dedicated staff aware of this situation and reassure everyone that we are on top of it.

As we know, developments are changing day by day, minute by minute. Our focus remains on the health and well-being of our community. Deep gratitude to the leadership and staff of RJHC/HSCL for immediately responding to this positive result with the highest level of safety and precaution.

Thank you all for your support. We will continue to provide updates regularly.

As always, if you have any questions, please feel free to contact the campus administrators or me. We will assist you in any way possible.

HSCL/RJHC: Krista Mattox: 503-320-0807
RSM: Vivian Villegas: 1-360-936-2694

With love, honor and respect,

Kimberly Fuson
Chief Executive Officer
503-504-5277

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF: October 1, 2020:

Dear CSP Colleagues, Residents, Families and Friends,

Now that we are hopefully refreshed, clear, and cleansed, the beauties of autumn reveal themselves. This is my favorite Oregon season. A time when the natural glories of the spring and summer have ended. The fragrance of evergreen trees intensifies as the deciduous trees morph from ethereal shades of green to bold burgundies, burnt oranges and blazing yellows before falling and transforming into a richness that nourishes the earth.

It is the time of Sukkot. Time to return to nature, to our origins. Time to gather the Arba Minim (Four Species): the Etrog/Citron and the Lulav (a palm branch, two willow branches and three myrtle branches).

With these four species in hand, one connects to God, waving the species in all six directions (east, south, west, north, up and down), reminding us we are all children of the Divine and that the Lord is everywhere.

Chag Sameach and Shabbat Shalom,

Kimberly Fuson
Chief Executive Officer
503-504-5277

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF: September 28, 2020:

Dear CSP Colleagues, Residents, Families and Friends,

We are pleased to report following results regarding the current COVID-19 testing due to the HSCL staff member who tested positive at their second employer the evening of September 14, 2020:

129/129 RJHC/HSCL employee results received: ALL NEGATIVE.

As always, if you have any questions, please feel free to contact the campus administrators or me. We will assist you in any way possible.

RJHC/HSCL: Krista Mattox: 503-320-0807
RSM: Vivian Villegas: 1-360-936-2694

Shabbat Shalom,

Kimberly Fuson
Chief Executive Officer
503-504-5277

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF: September 25, 2020:

Dear CSP Colleagues, Residents, Families and Friends,

5781… A new year, a new month, a new day, a new hour, a new minute, a new second. Precious, measured, unique; once passed, cannot be relived.

As Rabbi Michael Lerner says, “on the Jewish High Holidays, we take collective responsibility for our lives and for the activities of the community of which we are a part. Although we realize that we did not create the world into which we are born, we nevertheless have responsibility for what it is like as long as we participate in it.

While the struggle to change ourselves and our world may be long and painful, it is our struggle. No one else can do it for us. To the extent that we have failed to do all that we could to make ourselves or our community all that we ought to be, we ask God and each other for forgiveness and we now commit ourselves to acting differently this coming year.”

Breathe in…..Inspire.

This Yom Kippur, seek, discover, and embrace the Divine spark within that connects us all. Then, as it is said, through collective, ardent atonement and compassion, we can begin again to heal the world.

Ve-al kulam Eloha selichot selach lanu, mechal lanu, kaper lanu:

For all our sins, may the Divine Essence that makes forgiveness possible forgive us,
pardon us, and make atonement possible.

Love and light to all souls on this Yom Kippur and may we be inscribed in the Book of Life for a good year.

Good Shabbos and G’Mar Chatimah Tovah,

Kimberly Fuson
Chief Executive Officer

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF: September 22, 2020:

Dear Colleagues, Residents, Families, and Friends,

We are pleased to report the following results regarding the current COVID-19 testing due to the HSCL staff member who tested positive at their second employer the evening of September 14, 2020:

Our beloved staff member has tested negative twice since the initial positive test. Interestingly, the initial positive was a rapid result (on site result) saliva test and the subsequent two tests conducted were nasopharyngeal tests sent to a lab.

113/129 RJHC/HSCL employee results received: 112 NEGATIVE, 1 POSITIVE (same employee who has been quarantining at home due to positive testing since August. Our dear staff member will remain home until negative test result received).

61 RJHC/HSCL residents offered COVID-19 test; two (2) residents declined testing and are self-quarantining for 14 days; 57/59 resident results received: ALL NEGATIVE.

As always, if you have any questions, please feel free to contact the campus administrators or me. We will assist you in any way possible.

HSCL/RJHC: Krista Mattox: 503-320-0807
RSM: Vivian Villegas: 1-360-936-2694

With love, honor, and respect,

Kimberly Fuson
Chief Executive Officer

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF: September 17, 2020:

Dear Colleagues, Residents, Families, and Friends,

The High Holy Days are here! Sharing the sage wisdom from some of my favorites in the spirit of renewal, recognition of, and reconnection with the divine in each of us:

• It is a great blessing to have lived in a time of Martin Luther King Jr., when forgiveness and generosity of spirit encouraged our citizenry to work for a better world for everybody. ~Maya Angelou
• Love and compassion are necessities, not luxuries. Without them, humanity cannot survive. ~Dalai Lama XIV
• Our task must be to free ourselves by widening our circle of compassion to embrace all living creatures and the whole of nature in its beauty. ~Albert Einstein
• Look for a way to lift someone up. And if that’s all you do, that’s enough. ~Elizabeth Lesser
• Compassion is an action word with no boundaries. ~Prince
• We must strive to be moved by a generosity of spirit that will enable us to outgrow the hatred and conflicts of the past. ~Nelson Mandela
• Compassion is the greatest form of love humans have to offer. ~ Rachael Joy Scott
• Forgiveness is part of the treasure you need to craft your falcon wings and return to your true realm of Divine freedom. ~Hafiz
• The heart’s intention is the measure of all things. ~Maimonides (Rambam)
• Every time we forgive, we open up the gates for forgiveness in the world. ~ Sara Yoheved Rigler

May 5781 find you blessed in all ways.

L’Shanah Tovah U’metukah,

Kimberly Fuson
Chief Executive Officer

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF: September 15, 2020:

Dear Colleagues, Residents, Families, and Friends,

Late last night, we were informed that on routine testing at another job site, an employee at The Harold Schnitzer Center for Living tested positive for COVID-19. Our beloved staff member is asymptomatic.

We have notified the Oregon Health Authority (OHA), the Oregon Department of Human Services Safety, Oversight and Quality Unit (DHS/SOQ) and the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention as required.

Because we just completed a round of testing, OHA recommends we initiate testing 72 hours from this positive exposure. All residents and staff will be tested Thursday September 17, 2020 and Friday morning September 18, 2020 (before Rosh Hashanah begins).

We continue to actively monitor all residents for COVID-19 symptoms. As a reminder, infection control is observed intently and all community staff are screened daily before their shifts and have been wearing medical grade face masks and eye protection during their shifts.

With the advent of this positive result we initiated the following additional safety precautions:

• All RJHC/HSCL staff to wear N95 masks only until we are once again COVID-free.
• All RJHC/HSCL staff to wear shields only until we are once again COVID-free.
• Outdoor visitation is already on hold due to continued hazardous air quality.

Again, we ask that our residents and families help us and do all you can to support our community by following the recommendations set forth by the CDC:

• Stay home and indoors due to hazardous air quality.
• Wear the appropriate mask/face covering.
• Social Distancing/staying home if possible – at least six (6) feet away from others.
• Washing Hands for 20 seconds with soap and water.
• Avoid touching your face.
• Self-isolating if showing any signs or symptoms of COVID-19.
• Seek medical assistance as necessary.

Please know we are taking every step as recommended by authorities to contain the spread, and then some. We want to make residents, their families, and our dedicated staff aware of this situation and reassure everyone that we are on top of it.

As we know, developments are changing day by day, minute by minute. Our focus remains on the health and well-being of our community. Deep gratitude to the leadership and staff of RJHC/HSCL for immediately responding to this positive result with the highest level of safety and precaution.

Thank you all for your support. We will continue to provide updates regularly.

As always, if you have any questions, please feel free to contact the campus administrators or me. We will assist you in any way possible.

HSCL/RJHC: Krista Mattox: 503-320-0807
RSM: Vivian Villegas: 1-360-936-2694

With love, honor and respect,

Kimberly Fuson
Chief Executive Officer
503-504-5277

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF: September 10, 2020:

Dear CSP Colleagues, Residents, Families and Friends,

The wildfires are putting many of us on an alert status to evacuate our homes. Cedar Sinai Park is standing by to assist our sister skilled nursing and assisted living communities who may need to evacuate residents.

We learned tonight that there may be some of our staff who need to evacuate and do not have a place to shelter. Cedar Sinai Park is there for you!

CSP STAFF: TO ARRANGE FOR TEMPORARY
SHELTER ON CEDAR SINAI PARK CAMPUS
PLEASE CALL 24/7: 503-542-0088

Click HERE for wildfire updates

COVID-19 Shelter Practices at CSP:

• Families may shelter together but must self-quarantine (except for the staff member while working);
• We will take family member temperatures daily (as for essential visitors);
• If you should need to leave the community, masks and appropriate hand hygiene are required when in all common areas;
• When you pack your evacuation supplies, remember your sleeping bag and/or other bedding (to keep you comfy);
• Pets: Please try to make other arrangements, but if you are in a bind, crated pets may be accepted.

Evacuation Packing List:

• Face masks or coverings
• Prescriptions or special medications
• Changes of clothing
• Extra eyeglasses or contact lenses
• An extra set of car keys
• Credit cards, cash
• Sanitation/Personal Care supplies
• Copies of important documents (birth certificates, passports, etc.)
• Charger for cell phones, laptops, etc.
• Don’t forget pet food and water!
• Map marked with at least two evacuation routes
• First aid kit
• Flashlight
• Battery-powered radio and extra batteries

Pack for your heart (if there’s time)

• Easily carried valuables
• Family photos and other irreplaceable items
• Personal computer information on hard drives and disks

COVID-19 UPDATE:

Robison Jewish Health Center/Harold Schnitzer Center for Living (RJHC/HSCL):

We are pained to share our resident who tested positive for COVID -19 and has been in the hospital recuperating took a turn for the worse and passed late Tuesday night.
Our hearts are with family and friends during this difficult time.

• Our staff member who tested positive continues to test positive and will remain healing at home until free from COVID-19.
• All other test results for both residents and staff NEGATIVE.
• Executive Order lifted today.
• Staff outside of our new admission neighborhood can return to the use of KN95 or paper surgical masks along with the appropriate eyewear.

Rose Schnitzer Manor:

• Our original staff member who tested positive has now tested negative and is returning to work!

As always, if you have any questions, please feel free to contact the campus administrators or me. We will assist you in any way possible.

RSM: Vivian Villegas: 1-360-936-2694
RJHC/HSCL: Krista Mattox: 503-320-0807

With love, honor, and respect,

Kimberly Fuson
Chief Executive Officer
503-504-5277

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF: September 3, 2020:

Dear CSP Colleagues, Residents, Families and Friends,

We are pleased to share the Executive Order at RSM has been lifted and our outdoor visitation program has been approved by the Department of Human Services (DHS).

RSM Residents and Families: stay tuned for a special communication from RSM Administrator Vivian Villegas regarding days, times and how to schedule visits.

Staff can return to the use of KN95 or paper surgical masks along with the appropriate eyewear.

On the national aging services and health care front:

• On September 1, 2020 the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine (NASEM) published its Discussion Draft of the Preliminary Framework for Equitable Allocation of COVID-19 Vaccine.

What’s Most Important?

This draft framework includes recommendations for a tiered prioritization for a COVID-19 vaccine. The top priority group includes front-line health care workers, including those in nursing homes, assisted living and home-based care.

• On September 2, 2020 LeadingAge announced that the Provider Relief Fund Phase 2 General Distribution application process is now open to private pay assisted living providers. The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) announced this development late on September 1, 2020. The deadline to apply is very short — September 13– and not expected to be extended.
• “We can solve the corona virus test mess” according to Atul Gawande, MD, MPH, an American surgeon, writer, and public health researcher who practices general and endocrine surgery at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston, Massachusetts….and I’m with him:

https://www.newyorker.com/science/medical-dispatch/we-can-solve-the-coronavirus-test-mess-now-if-we-want-to

Other CSP Updates:

Rose Schnitzer Manor:

• Our original staff member who continues to test positive (but is now asymptomatic) remains at home at this time.

Robison Jewish Health Center/Harold Schnitzer Center for Living (RJHC/HSCL):
Initial Testing:

• Our staff member who tested positive continues to heal at home.
• 16/16 remaining staff results received: ALL NEGATIVE.

Testing Due to Staff Positive Result:

• Testing completed and sent for staff.
• 34/113 staff results received: ALL NEGATIVE (staff who are working remotely and have no exposure are not tested).
• All resident results received: ALL NEGATIVE (except for 3 who refused and are quarantining for 14 days).

Our resident who tested positive remains in the hospital recuperating at this time.

As always, if you have any questions, please feel free to contact the campus administrators or me. We will assist you in any way possible.

HSCL/RJHC: Krista Mattox: 503-320-0807
RSM: Vivian Villegas: 1-360-936-2694

Be safe and enjoy the Labor Day weekend!

With love, honor, and respect,

Kimberly Fuson
Chief Executive Officer
503-504-5277

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF: August 28, 2020:

Dear Colleagues, Residents, Families, and Friends,

This evening we learned a resident of Robison Jewish Health and Rehabilitation Center tested positive for COVID-19. Our resident is currently at the hospital receiving appropriate care and treatment.

We have notified the Oregon Health Authority (OHA), the Oregon Department of Human Services Safety, Oversight and Quality Unit (DHS/SOQ) and the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) as required. Please also know that we continue to follow all guidance set forth for privacy, patient care, employee safety, and efforts to stop the spread of COVID-19 as provided by OHA, DHS, CDC and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS).

We remain in constant contact with DHS and OHA and will continue serial testing protocols per OHA, CDC, and CMS.

We continue to actively monitor all residents for COVID-19 symptoms. As of this writing, no other residents have presented with symptoms. All community staff are screened daily before their shifts and have been wearing N95 respirators and eye protection while on campus.

CSP is adamant about being risk averse when it comes to each of our residents, staff, and families. This new positive test result reminds us that we are not in any way free of the need to continue our strict practices. Our focus remains on the health and well-being of our community.

Deep gratitude to the leadership and staff of RJHC/HSCL for immediately responding to this positive result with the highest level of safety and precaution.

Thank you all for your support. We will continue to provide updates regularly.

As always, if you have any questions, please feel free to contact the campus administrators or me. We will assist you in any way possible.

HSCL/RJHC: Krista Mattox: 503-320-0807
RSM: Vivian Villegas: 1-360-936-2694

Shabbat Shalom,

Kimberly Fuson
Chief Executive Officer
503-504-5277

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF: August 27, 2020:

Dear CSP Colleagues, Residents, Families and Friends,

As Rabbi Reuven Hammer (z”l) shares in his book, Entering the High Holy Days*, “Jewish tradition points to the name of the month of Elul as symbolically appropriate — the letters of Elul form an acronym for the words in the verse Ani le dodi ve dodi li–“I am my beloved’s and my beloved is mine” (Song of Songs 6:3). Believing that the “beloved” refers to God, the sages take this verse to describe the particularly loving and close relationship between God and Israel [the people]. Elul, then, is our time to establish this closeness so that we can approach the Yamim Noraim, or Days of Awe, in trusting acceptance of God’s judgment. We approach the trial not out of fear, but out of love.”
*Excerpted with permission from Jewish Publication Society https://jps.org/

Given the challenges facing our country, it seems especially relevant to honor this time to seek and connect to the Divine within ourselves and see the Divine in one another; to find the similarities that inspire us to build a kinder and more tolerant world. Most importantly, to know we can make that Divine connection daily, allowing us the grace to practice Tikkun Olam (healing and repairing the world).

CSP Updates:

Rose Schnitzer Manor Follow-Up Serial Testing #1:

• All employee results received; 90 results returned negative; our original staff member who tested positive has tested positive yet again (no symptoms). We are working with Oregon Health Authority (OHA) and the Department of Human Services (DHS) to determine next steps with this unusual situation. Our employee continues to remain at home at this time.
• OHA/DHS determined additional serial testing was not needed for staff and residents at this time.
• We are reviewing plans to resume scheduled outdoor visitation within the next week.

Robison Jewish Health Center/Harold Schnitzer Center for Living (RJHC/HSCL):
Initial Testing:

• As of this morning:
  • 104/120 employee results received: 103 NEGATIVE, 1 POSITIVE (reported earlier this week).
  • 63/68 residents tested: ALL NEGATIVE. Five residents declined testing.

Additional Testing Due to Staff Positive Result:

• Coordinated testing timing due to recent initial testing.
• Staff and resident testing Friday-Monday.
• We are coordinating with a different laboratory that promises results within 48 hours.

As always, if you have any questions, please feel free to contact the campus administrators or me. We will assist you in any way possible.

RSM: Vivian Villegas: 1-360-936-2694
HSCL/RJHC: Krista Mattox: 503-320-0807

Wishing all an early Good Shabbos,

Kimberly Fuson
Chief Executive Officer
503-504-5277

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF: August 24, 2020 (Part 2):

Dear Residents, Families, and Friends,

Since mid-March, we have all been challenged and given opportunities to make tangible and real the
very values which drive and sustain us.

As a Jewish community, we live with the importance of Pikuach Nefesh (safeguarding life), Kol Yisrael
Areivim Zeh Bazeh (demonstrating responsibility for one another) and Chesed (profound love and
kindness). At Cedar Sinai Park, those values, the underpinnings of our faith, guide us. Thus, we decided
that we will offer virtual High Holy Day services on television for the New Year 5781, and forgo
gathering in person for festive Rosh Hashanah meals.

These adjustments break our hearts. They are hard on all of us. We will miss the opportunity of coming
together for a celebratory dinner, and worshipping together in the sacred spaces of Zidell Hall and
Cogan Chapel. Yet we know this is the right choice to make for the health and safety of our community.

We can assure you that tremendous care will be taken in delivering the best experience possible under
pandemic circumstances. Our dedicated team of volunteer service leaders, Amy Shapiro and Jeff
Olenick, Len and Elayne Shapiro, Eddy Shuldman, Cantor Linda Shivers, Avrel Nudelman, and Rabbi
Barry Cohen are making video recordings for all the services. These will be shown on Channel 952 in
RSM and on Channels 11, 22, and 23 in the RJHC/HSCL. While we cannot offer in-person services, we
can still use Zidell Hall and the Cogan Chapel for private moments with the Torah, which will be offered
by reservation to anyone who wants that. There will also be opportunities for one-by-one Tashlich at our
backyard stream, and visits in the Sukkah.

While these High Holy Days will be unlike any other in CSP’s 100 years, let alone our lives, we know it
can still be an important and meaningful time. Community Volunteers are joining us on campus grounds
during the Jewish month of Elul (Aug 21-September 18) and on Rosh Hashanah to blast the shofar so
that residents can hear it from their windows. The unique sound of the shofar awakens something deep
within us. Hearing it is the reminder to once again reconnect with our inner goodness and the links we can
find with the divine in our world and ourselves. This year, the shofar also summons us to strength in the
face of challenge, hope in the face of adversity, and joy in our efforts to pray together while being
apart.

May you and yours be inscribed in the Book of Life,

Cathy Zheutlin                                                        Kimberly Fuson
Spiritual Life Coordinator                                     Chief Executive Officer

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF: August 24, 2020 (Part 1):

Dear Colleagues, Residents, Families, and Friends,

As you know, we began initial testing of all residents and staff at RJHC/HSCL. Late last night, we learned an employee at Robison Jewish Health and Rehabilitation Center began experiencing mild symptoms and has now tested positive for COVID-19.

Our dear staff member is currently quarantining and recuperating at home. We send our love and prayers for a speedy recovery.

We have notified the Oregon Health Authority (OHA), the Oregon Department of Human Services Safety, Oversight and Quality Unit (DHS/SOQ) and the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention as required.

We continue to actively monitor all residents for COVID-19 symptoms. As a reminder, infection control is observed intently and all community staff are screened daily before their shifts and have been wearing medical grade face masks and eye protection during their shifts.

With the advent of this positive result we initiated the following additional safety precautions last night:

• All RJHC/HSCL staff to wear N95 masks only until we are once again COVID-free.
• All RJHC/HSCL staff to wear shields only until we are once again COVID-free.
• Outdoor visitation at RJHC/HSCL is now temporarily suspended by Executive Order from DHS. Families may continue window visits with the windows closed.

Again, we ask that our residents and families help us and do all you can to support our community by following the recommendations set forth by the CDC:

• Wear the appropriate mask/face covering.
• Social Distancing/staying home if possible – at least six (6) feet away from others.
• Washing Hands for 20 seconds with soap and water.
• Avoid touching your face.
• Self-isolating if showing any signs or symptoms of COVID-19.
• Seek medical assistance as necessary.

Please know we are taking every step as recommended by authorities to contain the spread, and then some. We want to make residents, their families, and our dedicated staff aware of this situation and reassure everyone that we are on top of it.

As we know, developments are changing day by day, minute by minute. Our focus remains on the health and well-being of our community. Deep gratitude to the leadership and staff of RJHC/HSCL for immediately responding to this positive result with the highest level of safety and precaution.

Thank you all for your support. We will continue to provide updates regularly.

As always, if you have any questions, please feel free to contact the campus administrators or me. We will assist you in any way possible.

RSM: Vivian Villegas: 1-360-936-2694
HSCL/RJHC: Krista Mattox: 503-320-0807

With love, honor and respect,

Kimberly Fuson
Chief Executive Officer
503-504-5277

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF: August 21, 2020:

Dear Colleagues, Residents, Families, and Friends,

Hoping (maybe Pollyanna) that by this morning the next relief package would be announced by our federal government. We may be waiting until after Labor Day.

This week’s most significant news for long-term care:

• The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has given updated guidance regarding duration of isolation for residents/patients and return to work for health care workers.

Cedar Sinai Park is in the process of updating our policies to reflect the most recent updates from the CDC, Oregon Health Authority (OHA) and Department of Human Services (DHS).

For those wanting a more in-depth look from the CDC:

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/hcp/duration- isolation.html?CDC_AA_refVal=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2F2019- ncov%2Fcommunity%2Fstrategy-discontinue-isolation.html

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/hcp/disposition-hospitalized-patients.html

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/hcp/return-to-work.html

• The Oregon Department of Human Services (DHS) provided the final decision to move ahead with required monthly testing for all long-term care staff, beginning October 2020. Testing costs will be the responsibility of each
  long-term care community. Cedar Sinai Park is in the final phases of developing our long-term plan for ongoing testing that is as expeditious and accurate as possible.

….And, the most current testing update:

Rose Schnitzer Manor Follow-Up Serial Testing #1:

• An additional 5 staff were added to the RSM queue due to return from leave and/or vacation.
• In summary: 78/91 employee results received (76 negatives, 2 positives, 13 pending).

Robison Jewish Health Center/Harold Schnitzer Center for Living (RJHC/HSCL) Initial Testing:

• As of this morning:
  • 94/120 employee results received: ALL NEGATIVE.
  • As shared in our last communication, we anticipated resident testing to be complete by 8/19/20. The samples sent out 8/14/2020 were rejected due to process errors, thus new specimens are being collected for residents as well as 8 RSM staff. Root cause analysis conducted by nursing, health services, administration and nurse consultant and appropriate process improvements implemented.

Please remember, developments are changing day by day, minute by minute. Our
focus remains on the health and well-being of our community.
We must also recognize our team for the concern and commitment
they have shown to our residents during this challenging time.
Our mission has never been more meaningful.

As always, if you have any questions, please feel free to contact the campus administrators or me. We will assist you in any way possible.

RSM: Vivian Villegas: 1-360-936-2694
HSCL/RJHC: Krista Mattox: 503-320-0807

Wishing all a Good Shabbos,

Kimberly Fuson
Chief Executive Officer
503-504-5277

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF: August 13, 2020:

Dear Colleagues, Residents, Families, and Friends,

It’s been 24 weeks since the first case of COVID-19 was confirmed in our fair state; for 24 weeks, we’ve been learning how to dance to this new tango music that constantly changes its rhythm and beat. Cedar Sinai Park is blessed to count so many excellent dancers in our family and community.

While we do not yet know how long this coronavirus milonga (tango dance party) will last, we do know that to sustain our energy through the end of the dance, we must take good care of ourselves and one another.

Part of that care is focusing our mind and soul on the positive in our world. So….in the spirit of lifting your spirits, we offer the following good news from near and far:

https://www.goodnewsnetwork.org/smartmask-can-translate-speech-into-8-languages

https://www.optimistdaily.com/2020/08/the-shame-free-guide-to-encouraging-mask-wearing/

https://www.nationalgeographic.com/travel/2020/04/how-dance-connects-people-during-coronavirus/

https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nba/2020/08/05/nba-owners-pledge-300-million- economic-empowerment-black-community/3304737001/

https://thriveglobal.com/stories/laughter-during-a-pandemic-why-people-turn-to-humor-during- a-crisis/

….And, the most current testing update:

Rose Schnitzer Manor (RSM):

• All initial tests returned negative.
• Follow-up Serial Testing as of last night:
  • 136/138 resident results received: ALL NEGATIVE (two resident samples were deemed “unsatisfactory” by the lab and required re-swabbing; results pending).
  • 68/90 employee results received: ALL NEGATIVE.
  • Only our original staff member who tested positive has been symptomatic to date, and continues to recuperate at home.

Robison Jewish Health Center/Harold Schnitzer Center for Living (RJHC/HSCL) Initial Testing:

• As of last night:
  • 50/120 employee results received: ALL NEGATIVE.
  • Resident testing initiated.

As always, if you have any questions, please feel free to contact the campus administrators or me. We will assist you in any way possible.

RSM: Vivian Villegas: 1-360-936-2694
HSCL/RJHC: Krista Mattox: 503-320-0807

With love, honor and respect,

Kimberly Fuson
Chief Executive Officer
503-504-5277

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF: August 10, 2020:

Dear Colleagues, Residents, Families, and Friends,

We are thrilled to share the hospital expedited the testing of our resident and the results are negative!

We have received 135/135 resident initial test results with no further positive results at this time.

As always, if you have any questions, please feel free to contact the campus administrators or me. We will assist you in any way possible.

RSM: Vivian Villegas: 1-360-936-2694
HSCL/RJHC: Krista Mattox: 503-320-0807

With love, honor and respect,

Kimberly Fuson
Chief Executive Officer
503-504-5277

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF: August 6, 2020:

Dear Colleagues, Residents, Families, and Friends,

Please join me in welcoming Shannon Freeman, RN to Cedar Sinai Park in her role as Director of Nursing at Robison Jewish Health Center/Harold Schnitzer Center for Living (RJHC/HSCL).

Shannon’s nursing passion and practice has been focused in long-term care for 29 years. She began her career as a Certified Nursing Assistant and continued to learn and grow, becoming a Certified Medication Aide, then a Registered Nurse. Shannon has served as a Director of Nursing for 18 years. We are excited about Shannon’s experience and hands-on approach to advancing person-centered nursing practice, quality of care and life for residents and staff.

An Oregon native, Shannon and her family live in North Plains on a rescue ranch, providing a life-long home for abandoned farm animals. She also enjoys gardening, horseback riding and collecting Barbie dolls. Shannon shares she is “super excited and happy to be here and looks forward to meeting everyone!”

This week Shannon is shadowing interim Director of Nursing, Kimberley Birkemeier, RN, MN, ANRP-BC, who has been with RJHC/HSCL since January 2020. We are deeply grateful to Kimberley for her leadership. Please join me in thanking Kimberley for her service to CSP. It has been an honor and privilege to work with you and we wish you all the best!

On all our minds and in our hearts this week: Testing update:

Rose Schnitzer Manor (RSM):

• As of this morning:
  • 96 of 135 resident results received: ALL NEGATIVE.
  • 26 of 90 employee results received: 24 NEGATIVES; 2 POSITIVES (No new positives since last report).
  • Reminder: Our staff who’ve tested positive remain at home until cleared of COVID-19 per CDC guidelines; only our original staff member who tested positive has been symptomatic to date, and is recovering well (thank goodness).

Robison Jewish Health Center/Harold Schnitzer Center for Living (RJHC/HSCL):

• Initial testing in process for both staff and residents.

Sincere gratitude to our AMAZING staff for your
heartfelt care for our residents and one another and your
attention to infection control.

Family and Friends: We truly appreciate your effort to stay in touch and connected in the safest way possible as we navigate through this most recent restriction to visitation. Please know that once our executive orders are lifted, both RJHC/HSCL and RSM are prepared to launch outdoor visitation programs.

Residents: We strongly and with the deepest conviction encourage each of you wear a face covering/mask any time you are out and about on campus, and especially indoors.

To help support this effort, David Saltzman has gifted an additional 1000 washable cloth masks to residents of CSP.
Blessings and thank you David!

Cedar Sinai Park is grateful to each of you who live, work, connect with and support us. Although we cannot all be together, we feel the love and positive energy sent our way on a daily basis. Know that your efforts truly keep our spirits up.

As always, if you have any questions, please feel free to contact the campus administrators or me. We will assist you in any way possible.

RSM: Vivian Villegas: 1-360-936-2694
HSCL/RJHC: Krista Mattox: 503-320-0807

With love, honor and respect,

Kimberly Fuson
Chief Executive Officer
503-504-5277

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF: July 30, 2020:

Dear Colleagues, Residents, Families, and Friends,

Our trade association, LeadingAge, has declared that today is Care Worker Appreciation Day! Help us send love and thanks to care workers! It’s been 6 months since the day the World Health Organization declared coronavirus a global health emergency, and LeadingAge and Cedar Sinai Park invite each of you to acknowledge those who have gone above and beyond to protect the health and well-being of older adults during this pandemic:

• Take and post a photo making a heart with your hands.
• Take and post a video or a photo to deliver a note of appreciation.
• Cut out a picture of a heart and decorate it or write a message of appreciation.
• Like, re-tweet/re-post LeadingAge posts online @leadingage.

This week’s update:

Rose Schnitzer Manor (RSM):

• Our RSM staff member who tested positive is home and recuperating. Please join us in sending healing thoughts and prayers.
• Monday RSM had their first technical assistance visit from the Department of Human Services Safety, Oversight, and Quality Unit (DHS/SOQ). These visits will continue weekly through the end of the current executive order period.
• We are in process of completing staff and resident testing at Rose Schnitzer Manor (RSM) due to the recent positive result of our dear staff member. The Oregon Health Authority is providing RN assistance to expedite completion of testing.
• PPE requirements modification: staff that do not come into direct contact with residents (such as cooks) may choose between goggles and shields until we receive guidance otherwise from either DHS/SOQ and/or OHA. N95’s, gowning and gloves remains the same for the duration of the outbreak and resulting executive order. Any direct care staff who need other accommodation, please notify your supervisor immediately.

Robison Jewish Health Center/Harold Schnitzer Center for Living (RJHC/HSCL):

• Initial testing per state and federal mandate for all staff and residents will begin August 11, 2020.

In our State:

• On July 27, 2020, DHS issued guidance ensuring equity, trauma-informed testing and cultural responsiveness. This includes training for the person(s) performing the testing as well as guidance to interdisciplinary care teams for sensitivity to the specific need of both residents and staff that may arise.
• All long-term care staff are now required to wear protective eyewear per DHS and OHA. The attached comprehensive guidance for healthcare workers/providers links DHS and OHA in an effort to provide a unified message between agencies. Page 7 of this document addresses protective eyewear for long-term care staff specifically:

https://sharedsystems.dhsoha.state.or.us/DHSForms/Served/le2288J.pdf

In our Nation:
While the federal government decides on the next COVID relief package, access to and cost of PPE, testing kits and testing results turn around time continues to plague the long-term care community. Cedar Sinai Park has been extremely blessed to date that our board and community support and funding have allowed us to acquire the necessary PPE to protect and instill confidence in our residents and staff. We are also fortunate that we have been able to secure testing on demand when needed. Turn-around time is usually 3-5 days but sometimes exceeds 7 days depending on test loads at labs.

For more information on efforts and challenges of long-term care providers across the country:

https://www.mcknights.com/news/we-have-been-in-a-fight-for-our-lives-providers-spending-hundreds-of-thousands-on-testing-ppe

Please consider contacting your respective legislators to support the Act for Older Adults.

As promised last week, here’s an update on COVID-19 vaccine development from our Medical Director, Kirsten Carr, MD:

“Last week the federal government announced a 1.95-billion-dollar agreement with a partnership of two companies Pfizer and Moderna for delivery of 50 million doses of their COVID-19 vaccine currently in beginning stages of long-term human trials.

Pfizer/Moderna is only one of many companies racing to successfully create a vaccine that will create immunity to COVID. Vaccines, along with preventive measures such as social distancing, good hand hygiene, and wearing masks and shields/goggles, are the world’s best hope for effectively stopping this disease from infecting millions more people.

The vaccine approval process is being sped up in this case as everyone races for the most effective inoculation. The FDA process for approval is normally years long and takes place in three phases. These phases are being truncated due to the significant need and to prevent loss of life. Preliminary/pre-clinical animal trials have shown that this vaccine produced by Pfizer/Moderna can create effective immunity in Rhesus monkeys:

• Phase one trials where a few healthy volunteers are tested for general safety/major side effects have demonstrated that that this vaccine is safe.
• Phase two trials, which are limited human trials of several hundred humans, support general safety and efficacy in the tested participants. The trials have demonstrated mild to moderate side effects including fatigue, chills, headache, muscle pain and injection site pain in most volunteers.
• Phase three begins in the US this week and will include tens of thousands of people of various ages and ethnic backgrounds. Usually phase three is the longest of the phases as the goal is to investigate any unknown long-term consequences as well as establish how long any immunity conferred by the vaccine lasts. In this case, Phase 3 is likely to last only a few months before manufacturing begins and will most likely be focused on general safety and immunity conference. The vaccine is a two-dose series with the second dose being scheduled one month after the first administration.

One question that has not been answered is how the vaccine will be distributed to the general population. It has been suggested that those at highest risk will receive the vaccine first. This would include those over the age of 65, health care workers, and those with underlying health conditions.”

As I’ve said before (and there’s really no better way to say it clearly), developments are changing day by day, minute by minute. Our focus remains on the health and well-being of our community. We must also continue to recognize our team for the concern and commitment they have shown to our residents during this challenging time. Truly, our mission has never been more meaningful.

As always, if you have any questions, please feel free to contact the campus administrators or me. We will assist you in any way possible.

RSM: Vivian Villegas: 1-360-936-2694

HSCL/RJHC: Krista Mattox: 503-320-0807

With love, honor and respect,

Kimberly Fuson                                                                Kirsten Carr, MD

Chief Executive Officer                                                   Medical Director

503-504-5277

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF: July 28, 2020:

Dear Colleagues, Residents, Families, and Friends,

Since our last communication July 24, 2020, we have been in close contact with the Oregon Health Authority (OHA) and the Oregon Department of Human Services Safety, Oversight and Quality Unit (DHS/SOQ) to make certain we are following the newest procedures and taking every step required by these agencies as well as the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC). We want to reassure residents, their families, and our dedicated staff that we are on top of it.

Per Executive Order and the newest guidance from DHS/SOQ and OHA, a single positive result (resident or staff) is now considered an outbreak. To mitigate spread of the virus at RSM:

• We have initiated COVID-19 testing for all Rose Schnitzer Manor residents and staff.
• Full PPE (N95 respirators, shields, gowns, gloves) is required for all staff during the executive order.
• Any move-ins or returns from higher level of care must be pre-approved by OHA/DHS/SOQ through August 6, 2020.
• Window visits may continue as long as windows remain closed.
• All compassionate care visits must be pre-approved by DHS/SOQ.
• All outdoor visits are suspended during the executive order (we anticipate August 6, 2020).
• Salon Services will remain open: We conferred with DHS and OHA and determined it is safer for our residents to be served at RSM where we can observe and influence infection control.

We want to assure you that we have educate our staff on an ongoing basis with respect to infection control processes and procedures to keep our residents and employees safe and will continue to take the necessary precautions. We ask that you do the same.

We ask that our colleagues, residents, families and staff stay positive, have faith and do all that we can to support our community by following the recommendations set forth by the CDC. Thank you all for your support.

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/index.html

We will provide updates as we learn more from our testing.

Other important news between July 24-27, 2020:

In Oregon:

• July 27, 2020: All Facilities Testing: DHS has issued additional guidelines regarding COVID-19 initial and ongoing testing for staff and residents in long-term care communities. DHS is committed to “ensuring equity, trauma-informed testing and cultural responsiveness.”

Oregon currently has 685 long-term care facilities (LTCF) licensed by the Aging and People with Disabilities program (APD) in the Oregon Department of Human Services (DHS). These facilities house about 31,000 residents and employ about 29,000 staff-about 60,000 people in all. To date, the majority of these facilities have not had a staff or resident test positive for COVID-19.

• July 27, 2020: Non-Initial Testing Reimbursement: On April 23, 2020, the Oregon Legislative Emergency Board approved $3M in funding for COVID-19 testing costs of frontline workers. This appropriation is separate and distinct from the initial testing requirements announced by Governor Brown and described in Oregon Administrative Rule 411-060-0020.

DHS will begin accepting claims for reimbursement immediately and will only reimburse providers until $2.5M is reimbursed. The remaining $500K of the $3M appropriation has been allocated to test Home Care Workers providing services to in-home consumers. Separate guidance will be issued for reimbursement of the baseline testing.

Nationally:

• July 25, 2020: Department of Health and Human Services Blanket Waiver Extension:
  On January 31, 2020, HHS Secretary Alex Azar declared a public health emergency due to COVID-19. This declaration was extended effective April 26, 2020, and again effective July 25, 2020. Each extension covers 90 days. This allows many waivers for long-term care providers, such as the suspension of three-day stay prior hospital stay and relaxation of telehealth restrictions.

The following is an excellent summary of those waivers extended and sunset:
https://leadingage.org/sites/default/files/Blanket%20Waivers%20Chart%20REVISED%20July.pdf

• July 24, 2020: The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid (CMS) distributed their list of the first 600 nursing homes to receive the antigen testing program. No Oregon nursing homes were on the list. CMS anticipates sending out instruments and tests over the next 14 weeks with a goal of reaching all nursing homes with the appropriate certificate of waiver to perform specific lab tests on site. As both RJHC/HSCL and RSM has this waiver the campus can share the test equipment to expedite testing over time.

For those interested in more information about waivers for testing:
https://www.cdc.gov/labquality/waived-tests.html

As always, if you have any questions, please feel free to contact the campus administrators or me. We will assist you in any way possible.

RSM: Vivian Villegas: 1-360-936-2694

HSCL/RJHC: Krista Mattox: 503-320-0807

With love, honor and respect,

Kimberly Fuson

Chief Executive Officer

503-504-5277

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF: July 24, 2020:

Dear Colleagues, Residents, Families, and Friends,

Today, a case of COVID-19, the illness resulting from the novel coronavirus, has been diagnosed in an employee at Rose Schnitzer Manor.

We have notified the Oregon Health Authority (OHA), the Oregon Department of Human Services Safety, Oversight and Quality Unit (DHS/SOQ) and the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention as required. Per updated guidelines, we will be re-testing all residents, staff and associated staff working at RSM.

Please know we are taking every step as recommended by authorities to contain the spread. We want to make residents, their families, and our dedicated staff aware of this situation and reassure everyone that we are on top of it.

Developments are changing day by day, minute by minute. Our focus remains on the health and well-being of our community. We must also recognize our team for the concern and commitment they have shown to our residents during this challenging time. Our mission has never been more meaningful.

Again, we ask that our residents and staff do all that they can to support our community by following the recommendations set forth by the CDC:

• Wear a mask
• Social Distancing/staying home if possible – at least six (6) feet away from others
• Washing Hands for 20 seconds with soap and water
• Avoid touching your face
• Self-isolating if showing any signs or symptoms of COVID-19
• Seek medical assistance as necessary

We want to assure you that we have educated our staff on infection control processes and procedures to keep our residents and employees safe and will continue to take the necessary precautions.  We ask that you do the same.

Thank you all for your support. We will provide updates regularly.

As always, if you have any questions, please feel free to contact the campus administrators or me. We will assist you in any way possible.

RSM: Vivian Villegas: 1-360-936-2694

HSCL/RJHC: Krista Mattox: 503-320-0807

With love, honor and respect,

Kimberly Fuson

Chief Executive Officer

503-504-5277

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF: July 23, 2020:

Dear Colleagues, Residents, Families, and Friends,

Today, an RJHC/HSCL staff member has tested positive for COVID-19, the illness resulting from the novel coronavirus. It is important to note that this employee has been self-isolating at home since July 3, 2020 due to a possible community acquired exposure outside of CSP. This employee’s initial COVID test result was negative. We were hoping this employee would be able to return to work but the required return to work COVID-19 test result was positive.

We have notified public health officials as required and are following procedures recommended by the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention. We are taking every step as recommended by authorities to contain the spread. We want to make residents, their families, and our dedicated staff aware of this situation and reassure everyone that we are on top of it.

Developments are changing day by day, minute by minute. Our focus remains on the health and well-being of our community. We must also recognize our team for the concern and commitment they have shown to our residents during this challenging time. Our mission has never been more meaningful.

We ask that our residents and staff do all that they can to support our community by following the recommendations set forth by the CDC:

• Social Distancing/staying home if possible – at least six (6) feet away from others
• Washing Hands for 20 seconds with soap and water
• Avoid touching your face
• Self-isolating if showing any signs or symptoms of COVID-19
• Seek medical assistance as necessary

We want to assure you that we have educated our staff on infection control processes and procedures to keep our residents and employees safe and will continue to take the necessary precautions.  We ask that you do the same.

Thank you all for your support. We will provide updates regularly.

As always, if you have any questions, please feel free to contact the campus administrators or me. We will assist you in any way possible.

HSCL/RJHC: Krista Mattox: 503-320-0807

RSM: Vivian Villegas: 1-360-936-2694

With love, honor and respect,

Kimberly Fuson

Chief Executive Officer

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF: July 23, 2020:

Dear Cedar Sinai Park Colleagues, Residents, Families, and Friends,

Where to begin this week? Since our last communication, there have been numerous changes and news on local, state, and national levels. We might go so far as to say that rachmunis (compassion with a bit of pity/mercy mixed in) with vigilant attention to safety is at the forefront of the thoughts and deeds of many (at least with respect to COVID-19 and moms and dads protecting peaceful protesters):

Compassionate Care Visitation:
Based on recent guidance from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid (CMS), the Oregon Department of Human Services Safety, Oversight and Quality Unit (DHS/SOQ) collaborated with long-term care associations and other agencies on ways to responsibly allow for the possibility of structured indoor visitation when additional family support is critical to an individual’s plan of care and outdoor visitation cannot be accommodated.

DHS/SOQ was clear that they cannot define each situation that might support a compassionate care visitation allowance and instead encouraged long-term care communities to work with their respective DHS/SOQ team, resident, resident families, and long-term care ombudsman to determine if a compassionate care visit should be conducted. Compassionate Care Visits could include end-of-life situations, bereavement due to the loss of a loved one, or emotional support for a resident who has just moved into a new setting and is adjusting to their new surroundings. Per DHS/SOQ “these visits are intended to provide critical and social support during challenging times and not meant to be routine.”

CSP is pleased that CMS, OHA, and DHS/SOQ supports our current practice and will continue visitation allowances for compassionate care situations as follows:

• All visitors must be screened for symptoms.
• Any visitors with symptoms of COVID-19 infection (subjective or objective fever equal to or greater than 100.4 F, chills, cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, sore throat, fatigue, muscle or body aches, headache, new loss of taste or smell, congestion or runny nose, nausea or vomiting, or diarrhea) will not be permitted to visit with a resident.
• All visitors must practice hand hygiene (including alcohol-based hand rub) prior to their visit with the resident.
• Exercise best practice for physical distancing.
• Both the visitor and the residents must wear a mask or cloth face covering for the duration of the visit.
  • Residents may have exceptions due to underlying medical conditions.
• A visitor log with contact information, for the purpose of contact tracing should the need arise, must be maintained by facility staff.
• Utilize appointment times in an effort to minimize the flow of foot traffic and allow for greater control over the number of visitors at any given time.
• Both the resident and the visitors should be reminded of best practices;

An inability to honor these requirements could negatively impact
the ability to schedule future visits for the non-compliant guest.

• Limit the number of visitors that may visit a resident at any given time
  (two per resident at once).
  • Minor children and visitors must be in the control of adults who
    bring them and must also comply with physical distancing
    requirements.
• Facility will clean and disinfect all potentially exposed areas between visitor sessions.
• If a resident has been actively recovering from COVID-19, visits can be allowed once the resident has met CDC criteria for recovery:

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/hcp/disposition-hospitalized-patients.html

• A community that is currently under Executive Order due to confirmed
  COVID-19 or pending test results shall not allow visitation (visitation may resume once the Executive Order is lifted).

The Eyes Have It:
Due to the accelerated spread of COVID-19 in Oregon, the Oregon Health Authority (OHA) is now recommending that, in addition to masks, long-term care staff wear eye protection at all times while in the facility. Eye protection includes face shields and eye goggles, although face shields are preferred. Masks and eye protection should be worn in all locations in the facility, including breakrooms or other spaces where staff might encounter co-workers. Our trade associations are meeting with DHS regarding challenges associated with this recommendation and on alternatives that may prove effective. Until alternatives are found, CSP will work with our direct care staff to identify and order the most comfortable and protective models.

https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/ORDHS/2020/07/22/file_attachments/1501545/Universal%20PPE%20for%20LTCFs.pdf

COVID-19 Vaccines:
We’re watching and listening closely. CSP Medical Director Kirsten Carr, MD will educate us and give a review of the current efforts and what we may expect in the coming months in next week’s update.

Federal Government Increases COVID-19 Funding to Nursing Homes:
Wednesday evening it was confirmed that The Department of Health and Human Services will devote $5 billion of the Provider Relief Fund authorized by the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act to Medicare-certified long-term care facilities and state veterans’ homes, with the goal of building nursing home skills and enhancing nursing homes’ response.

Providers will become eligible by participating in an online infection control training program. Twenty-three learning modules in the program will teach, among other things, cohorting strategies and promote the use of telehealth.

The whole scoop:
https://www.mcknights.com/news/breaking-feds-increase-covid-19-funding-dedicated-to-nursing-homes-to-nearly-10-billion

It’s All Too Beautiful:
On a very positive end note, Peggy Henry is returning to Rose Schnitzer Manor to re-open the salon. Services are by appointment only, one masked and distanced client at a time. Gratitude to RSM Administrator Vivian Villegas for developing comprehensive and safe reopening policies and procedures. RJHC/HSCL’s salon opening information to follow shortly.

….and something to make you smile:

https://www.instagram.com/p/CBEkFKaAG1S/?utm_source=ig_embed

As always, if you have any questions, please feel free to contact the campus administrators or me. We will assist you in any way possible.

RSM: Vivian Villegas: 1-360-936-2694
HSCL/RJHC: Krista Mattox: 503-320-0807

With love, honor, and respect,

Kimberly Fuson
Chief Executive Officer
503-504-5277

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF: July 16, 2020:

Dear Cedar Sinai Park Colleagues, Residents, Families, and Friends,

It’s been a busy week in the world of local, state, national government in the quest to find ways to sustain community spirit and quell the spread of COVID-19 at the same time. In addition to the breaking news shared Tuesday regarding outdoor visitation, in the last 48 hours we’ve learned the following and hopefully enduring good news about widespread and ongoing testing in long-term care communities like CSP.

Per CMS Administrator Seema Verma and Admiral Brett Giroir, assistant secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services:

• Skilled nursing homes (like RJHC/HSCL) will receive testing devices and test supplies to use on site.
• Current waivers to provide these tests are being reviewed to assure we can run these tests on site.
• That the goal of the initial distribution of the tests will be to have testing equipment shipped by the end of next week to 1,500 to 2,000 nursing homes.
• The federal government will prioritize nursing homes in hotspot areas, such as Florida, Texas and Arizona, nearby hospital capacity and those with three or more coronavirus cases for the initial distribution.

For those of you who would like more detail, please click on the links below:

July 15, 2020

CMS to offer point-of-care COVID-19 tests at nursing homes

Specifics of point-of-care COVID-19 testing coming to all U.S. nursing homes; providers welcome move

Verma: Nursing homes with three or more COVID-19 cases will be prioritized for point-of-care tests

July 16, 2020:

CMS to expedite review of CLIA waivers for COVID-19 point-of-care tests

Nursing facilities in hot-spots to receive first batch of COVID-19 test equipment

We are grateful for the tireless lobbying efforts of our trade associations LeadingAge, and the Association of Jewish Aging Services of North America, as well as our Federation partners, assuring the voices of older adults and those who serve them are heard loud and clear as evidenced by this week’s news.

As always, if you have any questions, please feel free to contact the campus administrators or me. We will assist you in any way possible.

RSM: Vivian Villegas: 1-360-936-2694
HSCL/RJHC: Krista Mattox: 503-320-0807

With love, honor, and respect,

Kimberly Fuson
Chief Executive Officer
503-504-5277

IMPORTANT UPDATE REGARDING VISITATION AT CSP: July 14, 2020:

Dear Cedar Sinai Park Colleagues, Residents, Families, and Friends,

Yesterday afternoon CSP received anticipated guidance and recommendations from the Department of Human Services (DHS) Safety and Quality Oversight Division (SOQ) regarding “the possibility of limited, structured outdoor visitation utilizing best practices for physical distancing. This is a precursor to a forthcoming long-term care reopening plan which will be based on guidance from CMS and Governor Brown. This limited outdoor visitation policy is intended to offer specific guidelines under which structured outdoor visitation can be accommodated” on campus (different from the window visits where residents and family are separated by the glass and masks which may be continued at this time).

According to Governor Brown and DHS/SOQ, “the guidance for outdoor visits on site is based on currently available best-practice recommendations and evidence, and may be updated as additional information becomes available.”

According to DHS/SOQ: “At least 24 hours before commencing outdoor visitation, the facility must submit via email to SOQ copy of the visitation plan that indicates the facility has a location designated for outdoor visitation, sufficient staff, a mechanism for appointments and sufficient PPE to permit visitation.”

Until our plan is approved, the only visits permitted on campus are “window visits”, compassionate care and/or end of life visits. We respectfully expect 100% compliance to protect our residents, staff and each of you.

CSP leadership and consultants at both RSM and RJHC/HSCL are working diligently to develop respective plans and will submit to the SOQ for approval once the following elements have been met and translated into appropriate policy:

• All visitors must be screened for symptoms.
• Any visitors with symptoms of COVID-19 infection (subjective or objective fever equal to or greater than 100.4 F chills, cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, sore throat, fatigue, muscle or body aches, headache, new loss of taste or smell, congestion or runny nose, nausea or vomiting, or diarrhea) will not be permitted to visit with a resident.
• All visitors must practice hand hygiene (including alcohol-based handrub) prior to their visit with the resident.
• Both the visitor and the residents must wear a mask or cloth face covering for the duration of the visit.
  • • Residents may have exceptions due to underlying medical conditions.
• A visitor log with contact information, for the purpose of contact tracing should the need arise, must be maintained by facility staff.
• Utilize appointment times in an effort to minimize the flow of foot traffic and allow for greater control over the number of visitors at any given time. The number of visitors and residents allowable should be determined according to the available outdoor area.
• There should be visual reminders of required safety precautions and both the resident and the visitors should be reminded of best practices;

An inability to honor these requirements could negatively impact the ability to schedule future visits for the non-compliant guest.

• Limit the number of visitors that may visit a resident at any given time
  (two per resident at once).
  • • Minor children and visitors must be in the control of adults who
      bring them and must also comply with physical distancing
      requirements.
• Create safe spaces by placing chairs at least 6 feet apart, marking the ground with tape, using a see-through separation wall, or by stationing physically distant tables in an outdoor seating area.
• The designated visiting area must be accessible without requiring the visitors to enter the facility.
• When needed, resident transfer to and from the visitation area must be provided by facility staff, not resident visitors.
• A facility staff member familiar with the required protocols shall monitor visits to assure risk prevention procedures are being followed during visits.
• Facility will ensure all visiting stations are cleaned and disinfected between visitor sessions.
• Food is not permitted during the visits. Visitors may bring their own water which cannot be shared with the resident.
• If a resident is being observed due to presence of COVID-19 symptoms the visit should be delayed until a later date.
• If any visitor has been actively recovering from confirmed or suspected COVID-19, they will be not be allowed to visit until:
  • • At least 3 days (72 hours) have passed since recovery defined as resolution of fever without the use of fever-reducing medications and improvement in respiratory symptoms (e.g., cough, shortness of breath); and,
    • At least 10 days have passed since symptoms first appeared.
• If a resident has been actively recovering from COVID-19, visits can be allowed once the resident has met CDC criteria for recovery.
• A building that is currently under Executive Order due to confirmed COVID-19 or pending test results shall not allow visitation (visitation may resume once the Executive Order is lifted).

Once our plans are approved, CSP will share the plan in writing and your respective administrator will host a question and answer (Q &A) Zoom meeting.

As always, if you have any questions, please feel free to contact the campus administrators or me. We will assist you in any way possible.

RSM: Vivian Villegas: 1-360-936-2694
HSCL/RJHC: Krista Mattox: 503-320-0807

With love, honor, and respect,

Kimberly Fuson
Chief Executive Officer
503-504-5277

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF July 9, 2020:

Dear Cedar Sinai Park Colleagues, Residents, Families, and Friends,

Over the past week we learned that Oregon and the Portland metro area in particular continues to experience increasing cases of COVID-19. This morning we learned that Phase 2 opening for Multnomah County has been placed on hold. This is not unexpected as we try to resume social and business activity to support community and the economy in a society where individual choice is a fundamental right.

Reflecting this week about balancing the choice of the one with the needs of the many as it relates to this pandemic. There are so many opinions, recommendations and guidelines from our plethora of government and non-government agencies, “think tanks”, social media, newspapers, and magazines. Add to this the mandates from our well-meaning government agencies that often contradict one another and change so frequently it can make your head spin.

The simple truth is that we still do not have solid insight into COVID-19; we do not know how to stop this virus. It’s going to be with us for the foreseeable future. We have a little bit of knowledge about how to mitigate the spread….and we need to embrace that knowledge both at Cedar Sinai Park and as a society if we are to move forward in our quest to be together:

• Wear a mask/face covering in indoor areas outside your home (this includes common areas in nursing homes, assisted living, apartment and condominium complexes). One physician’s perspective on masking:

https://www.upworthy.com/masks

• Be thoughtful about where you go and with whom you commune.
• Maintain AT LEAST six feet of distance between yourself and others.
• Wash your hands often and for at least twenty seconds each time.
• Stay home if you’re sick.

CSP Staff: I am deeply grateful for your dedication and diligence in learning about and your commitment to using personal protective equipment (PPE), particularly medical grade masks; it is not natural, easy or comfortable. You amaze me every day as I witness your caring commitment to keep one another and our residents, tenants and clients as safe as possible through your thoughtful practice of infection control and your loving approach with one another, our residents, tenants, clients, families, and essential visitors, encouraging them to do the same.

Residents, Tenants, and Clients: Wearing masks/face coverings outside your homes (including campus common areas) and distancing on campus and in other public areas are imperative to give CSP the greatest chance of mitigation. We wear masks to protect ourselves and one another. It is a gesture of Gemilut Hasadim, of loving kindness. As we plan for a time where we can dine, play together and visit with loved ones again, distancing and masks/face coverings will be required (except while dining of course). Gratitude to those of you who are our champions for masking/face covering!

Families and Friends: We are cautiously hopeful and planning for the time when you can once again visit your loved ones beyond the window; please know that those visits will be scheduled in advance and each person will be required to attest to safe practices before visiting; masking/face covering and distancing will be required.

We appreciate those of you who have honored our request to allow our residents to move freely in our outdoor spaces and not come “hang out” at our front park areas. Those of you who have visited despite our request, please be prepared for the formalization of this process. Again, this is to protect our residents, staff and each of you.

Campus Services Update:

• Administrators are working with our stylists to develop a safe plan to re-open our salons. Date to be determined by what happens in our county over the next 1-2 weeks.
• Spiritual Life, Life Enrichment, Culinary and Administration are collaborating with our board and community volunteers to develop a plan for High Holy Days.

Update for Testing of all Residents and Staff in Long-Term Care:

• The Department of Human Services (DHS) and the Oregon Health Authority (OHA) continue work on finalizing an Oregon Administrative Rule (OAR) for the Long-Term Care Facility Testing Plan. The focus of the OAR is on initial baseline testing only. Ongoing testing protocols and timelines will be drafted later this summer.

Ongoing testing does not need to start 30 days after initial testing has been completed. Although this was in the original plan, the timeline has been modified. The latest communication states that ongoing testing will start on October 1, 2020. Final dates will be forthcoming. The initial testing plan timeline remains June 1 through September 30, 2020.

We expect the draft rule filing to occur at the end of this week.

News About Vaccines/Clinical Trials:
https://www.mcknights.com/news/clinical-news/new-nih-network-to-recruit-thousands-for-late-stage-covid-19-vaccine-trials

As always, if you have any questions, please feel free to contact the campus administrators or me. We will assist you in any way possible.

RSM: Vivian Villegas: 1-360-936-2694
HSCL/RJHC: Krista Mattox: 503-320-0807

With love, honor, and respect,

Kimberly Fuson
Chief Executive Officer
503-504-5277

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF July 6, 2020:

Considering traveling within the United States or abroad? Check out the latest guidelines and recommendations here: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/index.html. 

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF July 2, 2020:

Dear Cedar Sinai Park Colleagues, Residents, Families, and Friends,

Since our last communication, we are pleased to share that the remaining four staff COVID-19 test results at RSM were received and all four (4) were NEGATIVE.

Deep gratitude and appreciation to RSM Administrator Vivian Villegas, Health Services Director Aaron Diester and the RSM team for your diligence and dedication.

We must also give great thanks to our affordable housing management Nathan Burgess, Quinn Black, Deborah Theisen and their teams, as we have not had a single reported staff or resident/tenant case of COVID-19 at Kehillah House, Rose Schnitzer Tower, Park Tower, The Lexington or The 1200 building to date.

Our teams are persistently vigilant in maintaining infection control standards, including daily rounds in each department, ongoing teaching and training, and staff support and reminders to one another. While we know cases are increasing across the state and that COVID-19 is sneaky and could overtake us at any time, currently, our CSP “village” is successful at keeping the virus at bay.

We continue to await the state of Oregon’s plan to initiate first round testing for all residents and staff in nursing homes and assisted living and ongoing monthly testing for all staff. While we wait, the CSP leadership team is collaborating with our trade association and business partners to explore resources for testing and funding of these tests. While there are strong lobbying efforts to cover the cost of testing, supplies, and increased financial resources for staffing, there is yet to be any solid resolution.

Should our state and federal governments stand by their current plan that each organization pay for the mandated monthly testing for all staff, the expense to CSP would be $500,000 annually at the current testing rates.

Resident testing is covered by Medicare. Currently, Medicare and most Medicare Advantage plans have waived any co-pay for COVID-19 tests.

We know that our staff health plan, Kaiser Permanente (KP), has waived any co-pay for staff testing due to exposure or onset of symptoms. According to our insurance broker, KP is still deliberating regarding partnering to provide coverage for mandated monthly staff testing.

For those of you considering travel (NOT recommended by any public or private agency at this time), the New York Times published the following article about travel to Europe. Please note, the USA is not on the list of currently approved countries.

https://www.nytimes.com/article/eu-travel-ban-explained-usa.html

Within the article is the link below sharing the rationale and plan for entry. The lists are to be updated every two weeks. Page nine (9) lists countries currently approved and page ten (10) defines potential exceptions for unapproved countries.

https://data.consilium.europa.eu/doc/document/ST-9208-2020-INIT/en/pdf

On a lighter note, we celebrated staff and residents this week with giant hand-made Oreo ice cream sandwiches from Dairy Hill Ice Cream Parlor.

As we enter the holiday weekend, please join me in saying a Bracha (prayer) (or poo, poo, poo) that the blessing of being COVID-free endures.

As always, if you have any questions, please feel free to contact the campus administrators or me. We will assist you in any way possible.

RSM: Vivian Villegas: 1-360-936-2694
HSCL/RJHC: Krista Mattox: 503-320-0807

Be safe, wear a mask, love, and respect our diversity from a distance.

Kimberly Fuson
Chief Executive Officer
503-504-5277

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF July 1, 2020:

See COVID Risk Levels by County:
Check out The Harvard Global Health Institute’s new risk level map that shows detailed information on COVID-19 cases for all counties in the United States.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF June 26, 2020:

Dear Cedar Sinai Park Colleagues, Residents, Families, and Friends,

We must begin this week’s update with heartfelt gratitude to Dru Rosenthal, Development and Communication Director, Grace Hollandsworth, Events and Communication Manager and Alison Burger, Executive Assistant for their FABULOUS work developing and debuting CSP’s 100th Annual Meeting of the Members a la Zoom.

Despite the distance, the energies of warmth, humor and hope were felt by those who attended. We loved seeing all of you!

Elise Brickner-Schulz, Mazel Tov on your election to serve as Cedar Sinai Park’s Chair of the Board of Trustees. I anticipate a bright future together.

Ivan Gold, thank you so much for your dynamic leadership. We look forward to a lively strategic planning process with your guidance in your new role as Immediate Past Chair.
If you missed the meeting or want an encore performance, click on the link below:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jgFHDE3yEEU

On the COVID-19 front, here’s what we’ve learned since last week:

In Oregon:
As we finish the first week of phase one opening in Multnomah County, new modeling shows that COVID-19 is spreading more rapidly in Oregon based on data through June 18, 2020. CSP continues to monitor this rise closely.

https://www.oregon.gov/oha/ERD/Pages/NewestModelingSuggestsConsiderableRiseInCOVID19Transmission.aspx

Nationally:
On June 23, 2020, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid (CMS) issued additional guidance on “reopening” long-term care communities for communal dining, activities, and visitation. Each long-term care community must work in conjunction with the state, county and specific locality to determine best and safest practices prior to initiation of any plan.

What does this mean for CSP?

• Currently, all federal and state safety measures remain in place (I know this is starting to sound redundant).
• We will continue to develop plans to restart communal dining, activities and visitations with our nurse consultant, medical director, Oregon Health Authority (OHA) and the Department of Human Services (DHS) in readiness.

What you can do as a colleague, resident, family and friend:
From Dean Sidelinger, MD, Oregon State Health Officer:

• Think hard about your choice of activities.
• Ask yourself: how can I reduce my risk and the risk I might pose to people around me?
• Do what you can to suppress the virus:
  • Stay 6 feet away from other people.
  • Wear a mask.
  • Avoid large gatherings.
  • And if you are in a group setting — like a holiday barbeque — stay outside, keep your distance and use a face covering when you’re not eating.
  • Wash your hands frequently.
  • Stay home if you’re sick.

As always, if you have any questions, please feel free to contact the campus administrators or me. We will assist you in any way possible.

RSM: Vivian Villegas: 1-360-936-2694
HSCL/RJHC: Krista Mattox: 503-320-0807

Shabbat Shalom,

Kimberly Fuson
Chief Executive Officer
503-504-5277

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF June 22, 2020:

Dear Cedar Sinai Park Colleagues, Residents, Families, and Friends,

Due to the indefatigable efforts of the Rose Schnitzer Manor (RSM) team, our consultant Patti Garibaldi, RN and our medical director Kirsten Carr, MD in conjunction with the Oregon Health Authority (OHA), we are pleased to share the following update regarding COVID-19 testing of all RSM residents and staff:

• All RSM resident test results have been received: ALL NEGATIVE
• All RSM staff members except four have been received*: ALL NEGATIVE
  *Four staff pending results

What does this mean?

• RSM move-in hold is now lifted (all move-ins still require a COVID-19 negative test prior to move-in).
• Because all residents tested negative and continue to be asymptomatic and the four residents that were placed in isolation due to the level of potential exposure were serial tested (tested twice) and both sets of results were negative, OHA has agreed to forgo the second serial testing at RSM.
• This testing at RSM will count as the first testing required by OHA and most likely will be reimbursed by the State of Oregon.

Please note: All federal and state safety measures
in place for RSM and RJHC/HSCL remain the same.

Please see the link below for reminders and resources from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for our staff, residents, families and our general community about preventing the spread of COVID-19 (in a multitude of languages):

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/communication/print-resources.html

As always, if you have any questions, please feel free to contact the campus administrators or me. We will assist you in any way possible.

RSM: Vivian Villegas: 1-360-936-2694
HSCL/RJHC: Krista Mattox: 503-320-0807

Wishing all an early Shabbat Shalom and Juneteenth!

With love, honor, and respect,

Kimberly Fuson
Chief Executive Officer
503-504-5277

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF June 18, 2020:

Dear Cedar Sinai Park Colleagues, Residents, Families, and Friends,

What an incredible week it has been for our country, state and CSP! This morning, the Supreme Court ruled that the Dreamers can still dream (for now). Monday, the Civil Rights Act of 1964 was expanded to include our LGBTQ family and friends. We continue to experience the not-so-steady re-opening up of our state……and tomorrow Multnomah County moves to phase one reopening followed by required masking/face-covering in indoor public areas June 24, 2020.

At CSP, as shared last week, we initiated COVID-19 testing for all RSM residents and staff. As of 9:00 a.m. this morning:

• We have received 92% of resident results: ALL NEGATIVE
• We have received 61% of staff results: ALL NEGATIVE

We continue to be cautiously optimistic regarding the remaining pending results and are keeping in close contact with the Oregon Health Authority as we move through this process.

All Long Term-Care Staff and Resident COVID-19 Testing Update:
We received the expected guidance regarding the testing plan late in the evening June 15, 2020. Below is the summary followed by links for those who want a deep-dive:

• Initial testing of all residents and staff in Nursing Homes and Assisted Living (based on the guiding principles of cultural competence and trauma informed care) must be completed by 09/30/2020.
• Nursing Homes are the first wave, Assisted Living the second wave.
• Initial testing will be paid by the state of Oregon (we are working to get the initial RSM testing covered even though it occurred before the plan was final)
• Ongoing testing is required for all staff each month (25% each week). Currently the state infers that each organization will absorb the cost of ongoing tests, but our trade associations and other advocates are working on this as we speak.

https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/ORDHS/bulletins/290ea16

https://sharedsystems.dhsoha.state.or.us/DHSForms/Served/le2721.pdf

Multnomah County Phase One Reopening: What does it mean for CSP?
All current measures in place for RSM and RJHC/HSCL remain the same for the next 14-21 days per recommendations/guidelines from the Governor’s Office, Department of Human Services, Oregon Health Authority, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid.

Stay tuned: Next week’s update will include more detail as we know more about the success of Multnomah County’s phase one reopening.

As always, if you have any questions, please feel free to contact the campus administrators or me. We will assist you in any way possible.

RSM: Vivian Villegas: 1-360-936-2694
HSCL/RJHC: Krista Mattox: 503-320-0807

Wishing all an early Shabbat Shalom and Juneteenth!

With love, honor, and respect,

Kimberly Fuson
Chief Executive Officer
503-504-5277

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF June 11, 2020:

Dear Cedar Sinai Park Colleagues, Residents, Families, and Friends,

Since our last communication June 7, 2020, there have been many new updates and guidance to long term care communities as well as our own updates here on campus. Here’s what we know today:

On our Cedar Sinai Park Campus:

• • We have completed first round COVID-19 testing of all residents at Rose Schnitzer Manor. Four results returned thus far and all negative.
  • We have initiated first round COVID-19 testing for all Rose Schnitzer Manor staff.
  • We are awaiting results of testing for the private duty staff that serve our residents at RSM.
  • We anticipate testing all residents and staff at RJHC/HSCL and RSM on an ongoing basis within the next 2-4 weeks based on the following information:

In Oregon:

• • On the evening of June 9, 2020, Governor Brown announced a plan for comprehensive COVID-19 testing of all residents and staff in long-term care facilities, prioritizing those facilities at greatest risk for outbreaks. She directed the Oregon Health Authority (OHA) and the Department of Human Services (DHS) to implement the plan, stating that expanding testing is an essential first step to allow for the examination of how visitation policies can be safely and incrementally eased. See the Governor’s announcement.

Steps that need to be taken prior to launching of the plan include initiating a communication strategy for informing facility operators, health care providers, and laboratories about the new plan, and updating testing guidelines. OHA and DHS will also be working with long-term care facilities to implement recommended best practices for ongoing monitoring.

On June 10, 2020, Adult Protective Services (APD) Interim Director Mike McCormick, sent a communication to stakeholders reminding them to remain diligent in their efforts to prevent new infections including continuing with current infection control strategies. He indicated that as of now, all of APD’s COVID-19 policies remain in place recognizing the hardship it creates, but adding that “we must be very cautious about potential exposure, especially in large, congregate long-term care facilities, as the consequences can be dire.”

Mike indicated that in the coming days, OHA and DHS will release full details of the testing plan. He added that APD will soon have more information on how visitation policies will adapt as counties throughout the state enter Phase 2 of reopening. APD is also drafting rules to reimburse facilities for testing of staff.

For more details: https://www.oregon.gov/newsroom/Pages/NewsDetail.aspx?newsid=36767

Nationally:

• • As we know, on June 3, 2020, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid (CMS) began posting collected information regarding COVID-19 presumptive and positive test results from nursing homes. We are now able to see those results on the CMS Data website. We have reviewed the data and it is still listed incorrectly. There are several other nursing homes experiencing the same concerns:

https://www.medpagetoday.com/infectiousdisease/covid19/86967

We will continue to monitor the site and follow up to make sure our data gets corrected. If you wish to follow along:

https://data.cms.gov/Special-Programs-Initiatives-COVID-19-Nursing-Home/COVID-19-Nursing-Home-Dataset/s2uc-8wxp/data

As always, if you have any questions, please feel free to contact the campus administrators or me. We will assist you in any way possible.

RSM: Vivian Villegas: 1-360-936-2694
HSCL/RJHC: Krista Mattox: 503-320-0807

With love, honor, and respect,

Kimberly Fuson
Chief Executive Officer
503-504-5277

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF June 7, 2020:

Dear Cedar Sinai Park Colleagues, Residents, Families, and Friends,

Since our last communication June 5, 2020, we are relieved to share that our resident in post-acute care and both CSP staff members have all tested negative for COVID-19.

That being said, late last night we learned that an RSM resident’s private duty caregiver from an outside agency has tested positive for COVID-19. Two other staff members from this agency are affected and are testing and self-quarantining at this time.

We have notified public health officials as required and are following procedures recommended by the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC). We are taking every step as recommended by authorities and some additional steps we believe are important as an organization to contain the spread at this time. We want to make residents, their families, and our dedicated staff aware of this situation and reassure everyone that we are on top of it:

• Per guidance from the Oregon Health Authority (OHA), at this time, RSM will not be accepting move-ins through June 17, 2020.
• We are requiring full PPE (N95 respirators, shields/goggles, gowns, gloves) for staff who directly interact with resident(s) directly exposed and limiting the staff who care for those residents (i.e. Health Service Staff to perform care, meal delivery, housekeeping and laundry) until we are clear.
• While OHA is not requiring testing of all RSM residents and staff at this time and no residents or staff are exhibiting symptoms to date, after reviewing our initial contact tracing and conferring with our assigned OHA epidemiologist, medical director, infection control consultant and RSM leadership, out of an abundance of caution we will be testing all RSM residents and staff. Please note this may take up to 72 hours to complete first round testing as we obtain the additional 400 tests needed to complete initial and follow up tests (14 days after results received from first test).

As I’ve said before (and there’s really no better way to say it clearly), developments are changing day by day, minute by minute. Our focus remains on the health and well-being of our community. We must also continue to recognize our team for the concern and commitment they have shown to our residents during this challenging time. Truly, our mission has never been more meaningful.

We want to assure you that we have educated our staff on infection control processes and procedures to keep our residents and employees safe and will continue to take the necessary precautions. We ask that you do the same.

We ask that our colleagues, residents, families and staff stay positive, have faith and do all that we can to support our community by following the recommendations set forth by the CDC. Thank you all for your support.

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/index.html

We will provide updates as we learn more from our testing.

As always, if you have any questions, please feel free to contact the campus administrators or me. We will assist you in any way possible.

RSM: Vivian Villegas: 1-360-936-2694
HSCL/RJHC: Krista Mattox: 503-320-0807

With love, honor, and respect,

Kimberly Fuson
Chief Executive Officer
503-504-5277

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF June 5, 2020:

Dear Cedar Sinai Park Colleagues, Residents, Families, and Friends,

As you know, in compliance with the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid CMS guidelines, we have been actively screening employees and assessing/screening residents for symptoms of upper respiratory illnesses since the advent of the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, we have been following all CDC and CMS guidelines for infection control and prevention, including enhanced sanitization of community spaces, modification of services to promote social distancing, and the provision of personal protective equipment for healthcare personnel.

Per guidance from the Oregon Health Authority (OHA), CDC and CMS, we are writing to inform you that we are awaiting test results for two staff (one from Robison and one from RSM) and one resident. Neither staff member is symptomatic but both reported they were exposed to a family member that tested positive. As a preventive measure, we have already asked these individuals to self-quarantine at home, and we are working closely with OHA to track and identify any other people with whom these staff members may have had close contact. Please note that our staff member from Robison has not been on campus for the last nine days and therefore the risk of transmission to other staff or residents is considered low.

It is out of an abundance of caution we are testing a resident from RJHC post-acute for the fourth time in two weeks (the first three test results were negative). This resident has underlying conditions.

If either employee or our resident is confirmed to have a case of COVID-19, we will follow all CDC and OHA instructions.

Developments are changing day by day, minute by minute. Our focus remains on the health and well-being of our community. We must also recognize our team for the concern and commitment they have shown to our residents during this challenging time. Our mission has never been more meaningful.

We ask that our residents and staff do all that they can to support our community by following the recommendations set forth by the CDC:

• Social Distancing/staying home if possible – at least six (6) feet away from others
• Washing Hands for 20 seconds with soap and water
• Avoid touching your face
• Self-isolating if showing any signs or symptoms of COVID-19
• Seek medical assistance as necessary

We want to assure you that we have educated our staff on infection control processes and procedures to keep our residents and employees safe and will continue to take the necessary precautions. We ask that you do the same. Thank you all for your support. We will provide updates once we receive results.

As always, if you have any questions, please feel free to contact the campus administrators or me. We will assist you in any way possible.

RSM: Vivian Villegas: 1-360-936-2694
HSCL/RJHC: Krista Mattox: 503-320-0807

With love, honor, and respect,

Kimberly Fuson
Chief Executive Officer
503-504-5277

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF June 4, 2020 Evening Update

Dear Cedar Sinai Park Colleagues, Residents, Families, and Friends,

This week the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) posted first round COVID-19 information from their new reporting system for nursing homes and assisted living communities. Based on information from the CDC, Oregon Live yesterday posted an article that questioned whether eight Oregon nursing home staff members had died from COVID-19. THAT INFORMATION IS NOT ACCURATE.

We have traced the inaccurate information to an innocent data entry error by one of our staff members who was completing the new CDC data request for the first time. The error has been corrected with the CDC and the Oregon Live reporter, State Ombudsman Office, the Oregon Department of Human Services and Oregon Health Authority have all been advised.

Please know that no Cedar Sinai Park staff or residents have died as a result COVID-19 to date and only two members of our staff have tested positive to date.

We know our status can change from one moment to the next. Our staff continue to be vigilant in monitoring all residents, staff and essential professionals for signs and symptoms.

I want to assure you that we will continue to communicate with you in the most clear, complete, timely, TRANSPARENT and ACCURATE manner.

We sincerely apologize for any undue concern this has caused.

With love, honor, and respect,

Kimberly Fuson

Chief Executive Officer

503-504-5277

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF June 4, 2020

Dear Cedar Sinai Park Colleagues, Residents, Families, and Friends,

The past week has been especially difficult as we not only faced the continuation of the coronavirus pandemic but a worsening of the societal infection that is known as racism and discrimination.

This is a perfect time to reflect on what has made Cedar Sinai Park one of the most highly regarded senior communities in the country for a century. And that answer is very simple — our people. Our people come from diverse backgrounds — we are every color and every gender; we are from every religious and spiritual practice. Each and every day we come together in compassion to care for our most venerated elders.

I want to express my deepest gratitude to the 300 members of our Cedar Sinai Park team — our colleagues— because you truly represent the best of the best. Working in healthcare is one of the toughest jobs there is — there is no question that the people of Cedar Sinai Park are extraordinary!

I began my career in long-term care in 1990 as a social worker. The universal lesson learned over the past 30 years is that every person working with seniors in healthcare are heroes. We understand that together we make a profound difference to those whose lives we serve. That is why I can say with great sincerity that this is both a thank-you note and a love letter to my colleagues at Cedar Sinai Park:

Thank you for working together so diligently every day to make sure others are able to receive the care they need to be safe. Thank you for understanding that our differences make us stronger. You all are superheroes. Know that each day you go to work you inspire me, our residents, families, and community.

Residents, Families and Friends: Please join me in expressing love and appreciation for our healthcare heroes by sharing some words of encouragement via email at:
staff.appreciation@cedarsinaipark.org
We’ll share your notes with our colleagues and community!

With love, honor, and respect,

Kimberly Fuson

Chief Executive Officer

503-504-5277

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF May 28, 2020

Dear Colleagues, Residents, Families and Friends,

As Oregon begins Phase 1 of its re-opening plan, we are seeing lower incidences of COVID-19 in long-term care settings. This morning we learned Multnomah County is looking to June 12, 2020 to begin phase 1 re-opening. Please remember that nursing homes and assisted living are considered part of phase 3. This means we will continue our current practices around group activity, dining, and visitation.

This past week, The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid (CMS) released guidance directed to state leaders towards developing their policies related to nursing homes and re-opening. Each state will issue their guidance/recommendations specific to that state’s long-term care communities, including assisted living and memory care.

Additionally, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) released two updated resources related to blanket testing of staff and residents in nursing homes. This is a topic that continues to evolve and can vary from state to state and county to county.

Last Friday night, we learned the Oregon Department of Human Services (DHS) is in the process of carefully reviewing White House, CMS and CDC guidelines and developing long-range plans that meet Oregon’s specific needs around long-term care admissions, large-scale testing of residents and staff and “re-opening” long-term care gatherings such as dining, group activities and visitors. This plan will most likely “trump” some of Oregon’s current scenarios and change some of our current (and developing) policy. We continue to work with our county and state officials in addition to hospitals, labs, and other partners on implementing testing protocols for residents/patients who are being newly admitted to long-term care settings. We and our long-term care colleagues in the field believe this will take parties 2-4 weeks longer to clarify and map the plan and will revise our policy to reflect changes once the state has decided its regulatory pathway.

Please remember: This is new territory for us all. There is no precedence.
There are still so many uncertainties and considerations. It’s challenging.
COVID-19 is costly, both in lives and dollars.

Colleague Update: We are grateful each member of our team is healthy with no signs or symptoms of COVID-19. We have adequate amounts of PPE and continue to procure to assure we are ready for the future. Full PPE (National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) approved N95 respirators, shields/goggles, gowns and of course, gloves) are being used only in the special admission neighborhoods at Robison for staff caring for new residents at this time.

In all other care areas and departments, CSP is using primarily KN95 masks for staff use as face masks (not respirators) as approved by the Oregon Health Authority. If you require accommodation for paper surgical masks, please see your supervisor. We are using the KN95 for the following reasons:

• • To help staff get used to this type of face covering in case of an outbreak (we would distribute and fit test NIOSH approved respirators in this case per CDC guidelines).
  • OSHA allows for an extended use (7 days) while there is a shortage of PPE available (paper surgical masks can only be used for one day per OSHA extended use).
  • To allow CSP to continue to procure enough PPE for the foreseeable future of COVID-19 to protect our wonderful staff and residents.

Resident Update: We continue to rigorously monitor all residents each shift and strongly encourage appropriate distancing and the use of masks during care and when in common areas.

Please note: The CDC clearly states the use of masks is not meant
to insinuate full prevention from catching COVID-19,
but reduces the chance of exposure.

Tonight, at sundown we celebrate Shavuot, the spring harvest and God’s giving of the Torah to the Jewish people at Mt. Sinai. As so eloquently shared by the deeply thoughtful, wise, and passionate women in my Rosh Chodesh group, it is a holiday of giving and receiving. Wearing a mask while out in public is a beautiful expression of giving and receiving in our community.

As always, if you have any questions, please feel free to contact the campus administrators or me. We will assist you in any way possible.

RSM: Vivian Villegas: 1-360-936-2694
HSCL/RJHC: Krista Mattox: 503-320-0807

Chag Shavuot Sameach,

Kimberly Fuson
Chief Executive Officer
503-504-5277

Many of you have asked for additional information. Below are links to a collection of resources and articles we hope you find helpful.

https://www.newyorker.com/science/medical-dispatch/the-coronavirus-vaccine-is-on-track-to-be-the-fastest-ever-developed

https://www.ltsscenter.org/whats-the-evidence-for-wearing-masks

https://www.nytimes.com/2020/05/27/opinion/coronavirus-masks.html

https://www.mcknights.com/marketplace/the-good-news-about-person-centered-care-in-the-midst-of-covid-19/

https://www.bendsource.com/bend/make-masks-cool/Content?oid=12274199

http://seniorhousingnews.com/2020/05/18/senior-living-providers-fear-hardest-weeks-of-covid-19-lie-ahead

https://govstatus.egov.com/OR-OHA-COVID-19

https://www.oregon.gov/dhs/Pages/index.aspx

https://www.leadingageoregon.org/coronavirus-updates-resources

https://leadingage.org/covid19

https://www.nia.nih.gov/

https://www.cms.gov/files/document/nursing-home-reopening-recommendations-state-and-local-officials.pdf

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/hcp/long-term-care.html

We would love you to follow us on Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/CedarSinaiPark

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF May 22, 2020

Invitation to Annual Meeting to all Cedar Sinai Park Colleagues, Residents, Families, and Friends,

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF May 21, 2020

Dear Cedar Sinai Park Colleagues, Residents, Families, and Friends,

Last Saturday night we were to gather together at Pure Space for the “Birthday Bash of the Century,” celebrating Cedar Sinai Park’s 100th Anniversary. Please join me in giving a BIG virtual hug to our Chair, Marcy Tonkin, Steering Committee Members Michelle Eastern Gradow, Eddy Schuldman, Karen Blauer, Liz Lippoff and each member of our Anniversary and Events Committees for their hard work and effort in bringing life and passion to all events to date. A significant part of our 100th year is the newly launched “Our Stories” project. Next time you “see” Eddy Schuldman or Karen Blauer, give them an air high five to thank them for their vision in bringing Portland authors together to capture the heart and soul of our rich history.

While we were not able to celebrate in person, I am humbled and inspired by our communities’ outpouring of love, well wishes and financial support. Our fundraising efforts are more important than ever as we seek to meet the needs of those who are depending on us during this challenging time.

Staff Update: Our dedicated staff member who tested positive for COVID-19 retested negative and is happy to be back working with our residents.

Resident Update: We continue to rigorously monitor all residents each shift and encourage appropriate distancing and the use of masks during care and when in common areas.

Regulatory Update: There is much in the news about reopening long-term care. Until there is clear guidance, process, support and supplies from our state and federal partners, Cedar Sinai Park will continue to exercise an abundance of caution and maintain our current protocols.

On that note, this week I’m honored to share my weekly column with Dr. Kirsten Carr, Cedar Sinai Park’s Medical Director:

Testing in the Age of COVID-19
We have now been in the world of the COVID-19 for over two months here in the state of Oregon. My family has been mostly homebound with the occasional nature walks. I have been grateful that this pandemic occurred in the Spring. The rebirth of nature, with the flowers and trees coming back into bloom, has given a daily reminder that our world is capable of regrowth and beauty even when things are not as we planned.

We have learned much about this new virus and how it works. However, effective treatment and a vaccine remain months away as scientists and physicians test and treat patients throughout the world. We know that we will need effective treatments, testing, and tracking before we can return to a more normal state of being. Because testing is something that is available at this time, some have asked the question, “Why not test everyone at this point so we know where we are here on our campus at Cedar Sinai Park?” The reality is, at this point in time, testing is not the best way to keep Cedar Sinai Park safe from infection.

Testing kits are not widely available yet. Although the state and federal governments are trying to secure more testing kits for long term care communities, there is still a significant shortage of available testing kits. We are fortunate to have a stock of testing kits on our campus that would allow one-time testing of residents only. This would not, however, allow for testing of staff nor would it allow for retesting on a regular basis.

Testing for active disease is not 100% accurate. At this time, the testing that we have that is the most accurate for detecting the presence of the disease is a swab of nasal or throat mucous. This test has less than ideal sensitivity (true positive) with a false negative rate of up to 35%. The test is also not completely specific (true negative) with a false positive rate of up to 5%. This means if we tested 200 people on campus, we could potentially tell 70 folks they were negative when they weren’t and they could go to dinner each night and get everyone else sick or on the flip side tell 10 folks that they were positive and move them to a COVID facility in error. The best way to increase accuracy of testing is to test only those with clear symptoms (fever, cough, shortness of breath, etc.) or a known exposure to a known COVID positive person for long periods of time (household contacts).

There is also antibody testing available. Rather than testing for active disease, this test reports if you have had the disease in the past. Antibody testing has the same challenges with accuracy and the FDA has warned that many of these tests have not gone through enough rigorous testing yet to be considered valid. We are also unsure, although we suspect, if having had the disease prevents you from being able to contract it again. We are still waiting for data to support this and to help us understand if this is a lifelong protection or a short-lived protection.

There may come a time when the State or Federal government requires testing. The White House has already suggested nation-wide testing of all nursing home facility residents. This would most likely be one-time testing for the entire campus of residents and ongoing periodic testing of the staff. Each state will decide if this makes sense based on medical evidence as outlined above. If we move to this sort of testing, however, it will not take the place of current infection control measures for the reasons listed. I want to prepare you for these sorts of mandates and the potential downside of them including false reassurance that nobody on campus has COVID. This sort of testing will also not likely change any of the current guidelines related to visitation or congregating in public for long term care facilities.

The most important tools that we have now for preventing spread of this disease are the same ones we have been using for the last two months: hygiene, social distancing, good infection control practices in the community (cleaning), wearing masks, and vigilance. It remains very important to not come within 6-12 feet of another person with whom you don’t share a living space, especially indoors. Please wear at least a cloth mask whenever you leave your room/home to protect your neighbors (and if they wear them, they are protecting you). Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds regularly and in particular after returning to your room from the community or outdoors. We ask that you avoid using public restrooms if possible. Please follow the “one mensch to a bench” guidelines inside and outside.

These are challenging times. Change is hard. But we are a community that is capable of dealing with hard times. There is creativity and ingenuity and a sense of togetherness despite the different look of the world.

“Happiness can be found, even in the darkest of times, if only one remembers to turn on the light.”

As always, if you have any questions, please feel free to contact the campus administrators or me. We will assist you in any way possible.

RSM: Vivian Villegas: 1-360-936-2694
HSCL/RJHC: Krista Mattox: 503-320-0807

With love, honor, and respect,

Kimberly Fuson                                                  Kirsten Carr, MD

Chief Executive Officer                                       Medical Director

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF May 14, 2020

Dear Cedar Sinai Park Colleagues, Residents, Families, and Friends,

Gratitude to all who made Mother’s Day one to remember on campus. So many poignant moments of love were shared and felt by our residents and staff. The most important gift our families gave was enduring mindfulness of the importance of keeping our residents, staff, and one another safe by respecting physical distancing requirements.

Staff Update: Our dedicated staff member who tested positive for COVID-19 has continued to be asymptomatic for 14 days and is retesting as we speak.

Resident Update: We continue to rigorously monitor all residents each shift and encourage appropriate distancing and the use of masks during care and when in common areas.

This past week there have been many updates and revisions from our regulators. The most important information includes:

• Per the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid, COVID-19 testing may soon be mandated routinely for all nursing home residents and staff.
• New reporting requirements from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid through the CDC’s National Healthcare Safety Network portal for nursing homes/skilled nursing, long-term care for the developmentally disabled, and assisted living facilities: https://www.cdc.gov/nhsn/ltc/covid19/index.html
• KN95 masks cannot be used as respirators in Oregon (CSP has all types of face coverings in stock; we continue to build our reserves).

For those of you who would like a glimpse into what safe reëntry into community might look like, please read the New Yorker article linked below by Atul Gawande, MD, MPH: https://www.newyorker.com/science/medical-dispatch/amid-the-coronavirus-crisis-a-regimen-for-reentry

As always, if you have any questions, please feel free to contact the campus administrators or me. We will assist you in any way possible.

RSM: Vivian Villegas: 1-360-936-2694
HSCL/RJHC: Krista Mattox: 503-320-0807

With love, honor, and respect,

Kimberly Fuson

Chief Executive Officer

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF May 7, 2020

Dear Cedar Sinai Park Colleagues, Residents, Families, and Friends,

We continue to travel together through the COVID-19 pandemic. We continue to work diligently to maintain a COVID-19 free environment through our infection control practices that follow Federal, State and Public Health guidelines to keep our residents, families and staff as safe as possible from this virus and want you to know that as of today we have no active cases of coronavirus on campus.

This is an update today as a follow up with the goal to keep you fully informed. To date, on campus, we have had two COVID-19 positive staff members. One staff member early in the month of March and one staff member that tested positive last week. With each positive case, Multnomah County Public Health Department reviews extensive infection control practices with the facility staff to assure all appropriate infection control vehicles are in place for health management. Per the Multnomah County Public Health Department, neither of these cases rose to the level of a COVID-19 outbreak and full facility COVID-19 testing was not required.

Neither employee was symptomatic while working on campus. One staff member developed symptoms three days after they last worked on campus and tested positive and remained off work until fully recovered. Our second staff member was asymptomatic and remains asymptomatic. That staff member will remain off campus and will not return to work per appropriate guidelines until after 14 days with no symptoms and with validation of a negative COVID-19 test.

As a campus, we map all residents, staff and others that may have come in contact with or who were potentially exposed to a positive COVID-19 case. We have done that retrospectively 14 days prior to a positive testing and continue to monitor forward. To this date, we have no symptoms of COVID-19 that we are monitoring on campus. We add to symptom monitoring as CDC notifies us of additional symptoms to look for and we do that during each shift for all residents and staff on the campus, and we keep in constant contact with Multnomah County Public Health Department regarding the infection control status of the campus.

We immediately report any positive COVID-19 case or any residents or staff with symptoms of COVID-19 to the State of Oregon Health authorities as well as to Multnomah County Public Health Department as mandated. We also update all of these entities on an ongoing basis. Again, to date, all residents and staff remain asymptomatic of any signs and symptoms of COVID-19.

We want you to know that all of our staff have been trained to detect and inform the nurses and administrative staff on campus, should they note any changes of condition in our residents or staff and we continually thank them for their diligence and compassion.

With that said, we want to extend our heartfelt wishes to all the mothers, grandmothers and the great women that we honor this Mother’s Day weekend. We know that it is a time of celebration and joyful family visits, but at this time, we must continue to strictly adhere to the emergency orders put in place by the Department of Human Services that are still in effect and include restrictions for social distancing, communal dining, essential visitors and screening for all individuals. Families will need to understand that if their mother, grandmother or anyone else residing in the community leaves the facility for an outing during this time, they will be placed in quarantine for 14 days on their return.

These restrictions do not mean the day cannot be meaningful. Please contact us so that we can help in any way to support you in celebrating your loved one.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact the campus administrators or me. We will assist you in any way possible.

RSM: Vivian Villegas: 1-360-936-2694
HSCL/RJHC: Krista Mattox: 503-320-0807

With love, honor, and respect,

Kimberly Fuson

Chief Executive Officer

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF May 2, 2020

Dear Cedar Sinai Park Colleagues, Residents, Families, and Friends,

Today, a case of COVID-19, the illness resulting from the novel coronavirus, has been diagnosed in an employee of our community.

The staff member is in quarantine at home. We have notified public health officials as required and are following procedures recommended by the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention. We are taking every step as recommended by authorities to contain the spread. We want to make residents, their families, and our dedicated staff aware of this situation and reassure everyone that we are on top of it.

Developments are changing day by day, minute by minute. Our focus remains on the health and well-being of our community. We must also recognize our team for the concern and commitment they have shown to our residents during this challenging time. Our mission has never been more meaningful.

We ask that our residents, staff and families continue do all that they can to support our community by following the recommendations set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention:

• Colleagues: Wear required PPE as designated by your administrator.
• Residents: Wear a mask during care as appropriate.
• Colleagues/Residents/Families: Wear a mask in public
• Physical Distancing/staying home if possible – at least six (6) feet away from others.
• Washing Hands for 20 seconds with soap and water.
• Avoid touching your face.
• Self-isolating if showing any signs or symptoms of COVID-19.
• Seek medical assistance as necessary.

We want to assure you that we have educated and continue to educate and monitor our staff regarding infection control processes and procedures to keep our residents and employees safe and will continue to take the necessary precautions. We ask that you do the same.

The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) requires Cedar Sinai Park (CSP) to protect the health information of the clients it serves and its employees. Employees of CSP are required by the mission of Cedar Sinai Park and by HIPAA to ensure and promote the privacy of residents and staff.

Thank you all for your support. We will provide updates regularly. If you have any questions, please feel free to call me or our administrators directly:

RSM: Vivian Villegas: 1-360-936-2694
HSCL/RJHC: Krista Mattox: 503-320-0807

With love, honor, and respect,

Kimberly Fuson

Chief Executive Officer

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF April 30, 2020

Dear Cedar Sinai Park Colleagues, Residents, Families, and Friends,

On behalf of our residents and colleagues, I want to thank our families and friends for all the love at last Sunday’s Joy Ride Parade, for honoring our request to maintain a safety zone and doing your part to help mitigate spreading the Coronavirus on campus.

We continue to be deeply grateful to each of our CSP colleagues for your dedication and diligence in providing care to residents round the clock. Your continued rigor in infection control practices including ongoing assessment of residents and ourselves for signs and symptoms has kept our residents COVID-19 free to date and mitigated our staff incidence to only one positive case to date. YOU ARE OUR HEROES.

We are pleased to share that CSP has maintained an adequate supply of personal protective equipment for daily use throughout the pandemic and that we continue to expand our back up and emergency stock. Our pharmacy, oxygen, and food orders and deliveries have not been affected. Most cleaning supplies have been accessible; we have a backup supply of 100 gallons of hand sanitizer should our Purell supplies run out.

Through the generous donations and handiwork of our community as of tomorrow, we will have received enough cloth masks to provide to all residents on our Boundary Street campus, at our affordable housing communities, and to staff for personal use while off-campus.

This Shabbat marks the end of our seventh week navigating the waters of this COVID-19 pandemic. The Talmud says, “The highest form of wisdom is kindness.” Thank you all for being so kind during this most trying time.

With love, honor, and respect,

Kimberly Fuson

Chief Executive Officer

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF April 23, 2020

Dear Cedar Sinai Park Colleagues, Residents, Families and Friends,

Due to the mindfulness of our incredible team, the patience and trust of our residents, and by the grace of God, Cedar Sinai Park remains COVID-19 free as of this writing.

You may have heard that the White House has issued a document called “Opening Up America Again”. This document is a guide to be followed when the appropriate time comes and we can begin to return to a more “regular” routine in our society. https://www.whitehouse.gov/openingamerica/

Please know that now is NOT the time to open up our country, or Cedar Sinai Park.  Now is the time we must continue the deeply conscientious loving care and special attention we give to our residents and one another.

Our state and federal mandates to restrict communal dining, activities and visitation on campus continues at this time. Only essential medical and emergency personnel, attorneys, guardians, vendors for the purpose of maintaining essential services and visitors to residents who are at the end of life may enter Cedar Sinai Park.

Recently some of our families have visited with residents who were enjoying the beautiful weather outside on campus. Our campus is an open one with outdoor spaces accessible to everyone. However, given current health and safety concerns, we need to maintain a safety zone throughout “the Park”.

Please refrain from “hanging out” with residents outdoors on campus.

It greatly increases our risk of exposure to COVID-19.

We know these restrictions are hard on the hearts and souls of us as a community, but are essential to mitigate the spread of disease.

With the partnership of The Jewish Federation of Greater Portland, we’ve arranged a safe way for us to get together! 

Please join us Sunday April 26, 2020 from 2:00-3:00 pm for a

Joy Ride Parade:

“How wonderful is it that nobody need wait a single moment before starting to improve the world.”

With love, honor, and respect,

Kimberly Fuson

Chief Executive Officer

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF April 14, 2020

Dear Cedar Sinai Park Colleagues, Residents, Families, and Friends,

Pesach on campus this year deeply touched our hearts and souls. Although we celebrated physically apart, residents were able to virtually connect to family, our beloved volunteers (really family) Amy Shapiro, Jeff Olenick and Barbara Slader, and to staff who filled residents’ cups with Chesed.

As long as this time of COVID -19 and resulting restrictions persist, our goal is to keep everyone healthy in body, mind and spirit. It continues to take our “village” to make this happen. We remain COVID-free at this moment.

My most profound gratitude to our families and friends for your understanding that distance not only makes the heart grow fonder, but makes all the difference in our ability to keep the virus at bay; to our trustees for your constant support and encouragement; and most importantly, to our staff, all of whom are heroes and to our residents, for YOU are the inspiration that guides and motivates us to see each day as a new beginning.

“Let the good in me connect with the good in others, until all the world is transformed through the compelling power of love.”

With love, honor, and respect,

Kimberly Fuson

Chief Executive Officer

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF April 9, 2020

Dear Cedar Sinai Park Colleagues, Residents, Families, and Friends,

While we were celebrating the holiday last night, a story appeared on OregonLive, the on-line property of The Oregonian, that examined the spread of coronavirus through senior care homes across the state. It contains INACCURATE information regarding Robison Jewish Home.

Please know that no Cedar Sinai Park resident has been diagnosed with COVID-19 to date and only one member of our staff has tested positive to date. That person has been in quarantine since the onset of symptoms, recuperating at home and has now been cleared to return to work. Our staff is working diligently to keep it that way.

We know our status can change from one moment to the next. Our staff continue to be vigilant in monitoring all residents, staff and essential professionals for signs and symptoms.

I want to assure you that we will continue to communicate with you in the most clear, complete, timely, and ACCURATE manner.

With love, honor, and respect,

Kimberly Fuson

Chief Executive Officer

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF April 7, 2020

Dear Cedar Sinai Park Colleagues, Residents, Families, and Friends,

As the eve of the Virtual Pesach of 5780 draws near, we are delighted to share the COVID-19 quarantine has been lifted.

Like Moses, we must be relentless in our efforts to free ourselves of this virus (dare I say plague). We must vigilantly take good care of and protect ourselves and one another by continuing to practice physical distancing and extra attention to hand washing and hygiene in our homes.

We know how hard it is to be separated. While we want to hug all of you,

we must remain mindful and careful until this virus has truly passed!

RJHC/HSCL and RSM will maintain room service dining and activity per the continued guidance of the CDC, CMS and our local authorities. There is now additional guidance regarding covering the mouths and noses of residents during care encounters to further mitigate risk of exposure. Through your Gemilut Hasadim, we are gathering enough cloth masks for our beloved residents.

We are humbled by the selfless generosity of our families, friends and community, by the limitless courage and devotion of our staff and by the wisdom, humor, and resilience of our residents.

“Together forever, never apart, sometimes in distance but never in heart.”

Chag Pesach Sameach,

Kimberly Fuson

Chief Executive Officer

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF April 2, 2020

Dear Cedar Sinai Park Residents, Clients, Families and Colleagues,

It is such a privilege to be counted as a member of our CSP family; the devotion and dedication of our staff to one another and our residents, clients and patients through this challenging time is an inspiration!

While this can be a scary time, please know the leadership team is working day and night to assure we have what we need to keep our staff, residents, clients and patients’ hearts, minds, souls and bodies safe.

Since our last communication March 26, we are pleased to share the Norovirus quarantine has been lifted. One virus conquered, one to go.

• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds especially after you have been in a public place, or after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
• If soap and water are not readily available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
• Clean surfaces around you.
• Get a good night’s rest.
• Exercise routinely.
• Eat healthy.
• Know you’re loved!

Kimberly Fuson

Chief Executive Officer

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF MARCH 26, 2020

TO:       All Cedar Sinai Park Colleagues, Residents, Families, and Friends

FROM: Kimberly Fuson, Chief Executive Officer

RE:       Positive Case of COVID-19

Dear Colleagues, Residents, Families, and Friends,

Today, a case of COVID-19, the illness resulting from the novel coronavirus, has been diagnosed in an employee of our community.

The staff member is in quarantine at home. We have notified public health officials as required and are following procedures recommended by the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention. We are taking every step as recommended by authorities to contain the spread. We want to make residents, their families, and our dedicated staff aware of this situation and reassure everyone that we are on top of it.

Developments are changing day by day, minute by minute. Our focus remains on the health and well-being of our community. We must also recognize our team for the concern and commitment they have shown to our residents during this challenging time. Our mission has never been more meaningful.

We ask that our residents and staff do all that they can to support our community by following the recommendations set forth by the CDC:

• Social Distancing/staying home if possible – at least six (6) feet away from others
• Washing Hands for 20 seconds with soap and water
• Avoid touching your face
• Self-isolating if showing any signs or symptoms of COVID-19
• Seek medical assistance as necessary

We want to assure you that we have educated our staff on infection control processes and procedures to keep our residents and employees safe and will continue to take the necessary precautions.  We ask that you do the same.

Thank you all for your support. We will provide updates regularly. If you have any questions, please let me know.

With love, honor and respect,

Kimberly Fuson

Chief Executive Officer

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF MARCH 25, 2020

Since our communication on March 17, we are pleased to share there is no known COVID-19 at Cedar Sinai Park and that the gastrointestinal outbreak at RJHC/HSCL is resolving at a rapid pace. We continue to work diligently to keep our residents, patients, participants, clients and staff safe, in good spirits, and virus-free.

I am very proud and humbled by the great heart and dedication of our staff. We are working to assure their health and welfare as we navigate the unprecedented waters of this pandemic, including access to personal protective equipment (PPE) as well as hand sanitizer and antiviral cleaning supplies.

While we cannot gather in person for Pesach this year, please stay tuned for information regarding our special Seder and Easter plans 5780/2020.

A reminder that visitors continue to be restricted except for essential legal, medical, and emergency personnel and visitors to residents who are at the end of life.

We are joining hands with the Jewish Federation of Greater Portland (JFGP) to support the needs of our Jewish community during this critical time. Please consider supporting these efforts by making a donation to the COVID-19 Relief Fund. https://www.jewishportland.org/covid19relief.

Please stay in close touch; it’s our community connections that keep us strong and positive; you are each a blessing.

With love, honor, and respect,

Kimberly Fuson

Chief Executive Officer

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF MARCH 17, 2020

Since our communication on March 14, 2020, we are pleased to share there is noCOVID-19 at Cedar Sinai Park.

This afternoon the Oregon Department of Human Services increased restrictions on visitation policies for all assisted living communities, nursing homes, residential care facilities, adult foster homes and group homes for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities to further prevent the spread of COVID-19.

DHS is taking this action in consultation with the Oregon Health Authority (OHA) at the request of Governor Brown. OHA and DHS have determined that, given the increase in COVID-19 cases, these additional restrictions are essential to protect those at greater risk of the most severe outcomes of this disease.

The updated restrictions limit all visitors except essential medical and emergency personnel and visitors to residents who are in the end of life.

We know these restrictions are hard on the hearts and souls of us as a community, but are essential to mitigate the spread of disease.  We will continue to nurture the social, spiritual and emotional needs of our residents via special room service programs and assistance in connecting with family and friends via technology.

For more information about what’s happening in Oregon: https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/ORDHS/bulletins/281a5b5

With love, honor, and respect,

Kimberly Fuson

Chief Executive Officer

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AS OF MARCH 14, 2020

President Trump has declared a national emergency as a result of COVID-19. This development triggers heightened infection control practices and protocols as recommended by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). Please know that maintaining the health, wellness, and safety of our residents and staff is our number one priority.

Once the County Health Department lifts the current gastrointestinal quarantine at RJHC/HSCL, we will continue to restrict visitation as required by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) for COVID-19. Effective immediately, RSM is joining RJHC/HSCL in restricting visitation. Based on federal guidance, no visitors will be permitted into our community except for essential medical personnel and certain compassionate care situations, such as a family member’s end-of-life.

 Per CMS recommendation HSCL and RSM will join RJHC, in implementing the following additional safeguards:

• All meals will be served in the privacy of resident rooms.

(Note: Working quickly with this new information, we began this during today’s lunch hour and while there were a few bumps, we now have what promises to be a smooth system in place).

• Communal/Group activities are suspended.

Please know that the news about the spread of this new disease is concerning for us all. In addition to restricting visitation to prevent the illness on our campus, we are also focused on infection control best practices with our staff and residents. Staff have been trained on the symptoms of the coronavirus (COVID-19), CDC recommended infection prevention techniques, and have clear protocols for staff to stay home and not come to work if they are ill or symptomatic.

Additional Impacts from the National Emergency Declaration

• Three-Day Stay Waiver

The President announced during his press conference declaring a national emergency, that he was suspending the Medicare’s three-day stay requirement before a SNF admission. We have not yet seen anything in writing about this from CMS and will forward to you when we receive any more information.

• CMS Releases MAC-by-MAC Medicare Part B COVID-19 Test Billing Rates

• MDS Completion and Submission Waivers

CMS is waiving 42 CFR 483.20 to provide relief to SNFs on the timeframe requirements for Minimum Data Set (MDS) assessments and transmissions. CMS has not yet issued technical guidance on how to implement.

• SNF Part A 100-Day Benefit Waiver

For “certain beneficiaries who recently exhausted their SNF benefits, the waiver authorizes renewed SNF coverage without first having to start a new benefit period.” CMS has not yet issued technical guidance on how to implement.

• House Relief Package

Separately, the House of Representatives passed a relief package late yesterday. It still must be passed in the Senate, but it includes a temporary 6.2% FMAP increase to state Medicaid programs, paid sick leave for employers with 500 employees or less, tax credits, and funding for certain tests. We will continue to monitor this legislation and keep you posted about possible implementation.

We continue to monitor information and guidance from CMS, CDC, and the Oregon Health Authority, and are working with state and local public health and emergency preparedness officials to prevent the illness and strengthen our preparation for and response to outbreak.

For additional information, please visit the CDC’s coronavirus disease information page at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/ or the Centers for Medicaid and Medicare Services (CMS) at https://www.cms.gov/About-CMS/Agency-Information/Emergency/EPRO/Current-Emergencies/Current-Emergencies-page.

We will keep you updated.

With love, honor, and respect,

Kimberly Fuson

Chief Executive Officer

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