Vha transitions to covid-19 operational plan by implementing health protection levels to enhance safety of veterans, visitors and employees | va new jersey health care | veterans affairs

East Orange , NJ — East Orange — Today, the VA New Jersey Health Care System is implementing COVID-19 Health Protection Levels as part VA’s consistent, nationwide approach for Veterans

Health Administration (VHA) facilities to adjust COVID-19 safety protocols locally as needed. The three VHA COVID-19 Health Protection Levels – low, medium, and high – align with CDC’s

Community Transmission levels, which are based on new COVID cases and percentage of positive tests. Starting today, all VANJHCS locations are at level High. The VHA COVID-19 Health

Protection Level will be updated as needed on Mondays.  “Our local Veterans are resolute about receiving their care at our facility and we want to keep them safe during the ups and downs of

COVID-19 community spread,” said John A. Griffith, Acting, Executive Medical Center Director. “Instead of increasing or decreasing access to care, safety protocols will be adjusted based on

COVID-19 levels in the community.” Masks are required regardless of the level, but requirements for self-screening, visitation, and physical distancing vary: High: 1.    Masks are required

2.    Screening is self-required 3.    Care team-approved visitors only 4.    Physical distancing is required Please visit VA New Jersey Health Care | Veterans Affairs for current protection

levels before your next visit. If patients or visitors are heading to a VA facility in another county, they should check with that health facility to determine the facility’s VHA COVID-19

Health Protection Level. Visit www.va.gov/coronavirus-veteran-frequently-asked-questions/ for questions and answers regarding the VHA COVID-19 Health Protection Levels. For more information,

please contact Christine Betros Farrell, Chief Communications officer at [email protected].