Statement from Payson Care Center regarding COVID-19

Updated: Saturday, September 12, 12:40 p.m. MST

At Payson Care Center, the safety and well-being of our residents are our highest priority. The safety and well-being of our associates [staff] and our community are also paramount considerations in every action we take.

Since the notification of our first positive case of COVID-19, we have been committed to taking care of our residents who test positive. We have also continued to partner with local hospitals and physicians to arrange the transfer of our COVID-19 patients to local hospitals if their condition requires a higher level of care.

As of September 12, here is the latest update regarding residents and COVID-19 in our facility:

• All of our residents have been tested for COVID-19.
• Altogether, three residents have tested positive.
• Two of those residents have recovered and no long require isolation precautions.
• One of the residents who tested positive passed away. Our heartfelt condolences go out to the resident's family, and we mourn the loss with them.

As of September 12, here is the latest update regarding staff and COVID-19 in our facility:

• All of our associates have been tested for COVID-19.
• Altogether, eight associates have tested positive for COVID-19.
• Seven of those associates have met the CDC’s strict guidelines for recovery from COVID-19 and have returned to work.
• The eighth associate who previously tested positive is no longer employed at our facility.

We are staying in consistent communication with the families of our residents. We always welcome their questions and contact. Even though visitation remains restricted, we're happy to coordinate phone calls, video chats or window visits. Our facility is a family, and we’re all working together to take care of our residents and each other.

We are also working closely with the Arizona Department of Health Services and the local health department to ensure we are taking the appropriate steps at this time. We will continue to follow their guidance, along with guidelines offered by the CDC. Both the state and local health departments have been extremely supportive. We are thankful for their partnership and support. We are also grateful for the outpouring of love we’ve received from the Payson community.

Trent Weaver, executive director