WesleyLife prepares to prevent and contain COVID-19

Responding to the global spread of coronavirus, WesleyLife — Iowa’s most comprehensive provider of services to older adults — is actively preparing to prevent and contain cases of COVID-19, the illness caused by the novel coronavirus.

“The health and well-being of our residents and clients and the team members who support them is our top priority,” Rob Kretzinger, WesleyLife CEO, said. “Our team is educated, informed, and concerned, and we are providing a wealth of education and resources via a variety of communication channels.

“This is a rapidly evolving situation, and we are committed to ensuring that residents and clients, their families, our dedicated team members, and the greater communities in which we serve are aware of our efforts and the precautions required for COVID-19 prevention and containment.”

Kretzinger said WesleyLife leaders are communicating regularly with the Iowa Department of Public Health, the Iowa Health Care Association, LeadingAge Iowa, and officials with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to ensure all information and recommended protocols are up to date.

The organization also has implemented its emergency preparedness plan, which includes visitor restrictions and the use of screening tools and personal protective equipment (PPE) as warranted, Kretzinger said.

In addition, protocols are ready to be set in motion around staffing challenges and, if they should occur, the closings of schools and daycare centers, he added.

“It’s necessary for us to be prepared for any contingency to help ensure that our team members are able to stay well and serve the people who depend on us as an organization,” Kretzinger said.

Kretzinger added WesleyLife will continue to provide updates via the organization’s website, wesleylife.org, and through internal communication channels.