Reentry Updates for Students

To help kick off our Let’s Get Back…GET VAXXED! campaign and make obtaining COVID-19 vaccinations easy and efficient for USAHS students, faculty and staff, the University has partnered with Walgreens to offer on-campus vaccination events.

Unvaccinated USAHS students and employees can register for a COVID-19 vaccine to be administered on campus in September. Walgreens representatives will then return in October to provide the second dose. If you are unvaccinated and interested in obtaining the free COVID-19 vaccine during one of these events, please register using your campus-specific link below.

Campus Vaccine Event Details:

*15-minute appointments

• All participants must complete Sections A, B, C and D of the Vaccine Administration Record (VAR) form ahead of the clinic.
• Participants will NOT be vaccinated, and SHOULD NOT attend the clinic if:
  • They are feeling sick, have a fever or are exhibiting any respiratory symptoms.
  • They have been diagnosed with COVID-19 within the last two weeks of the event.
• Vaccine administrators from Walgreens’ immunization clinic will provide the COVID-19 vaccine following strict safety measures to ensure participants and the USAHS community are protected. These measures include conducting daily temperature checks for pharmacists and staff before the start of each shift; following standard OSHA safety protocols to prevent infection (handwashing, changing gloves between patients and swabbing the injection site with alcohol) and wearing surgical face masks and face shields.
• When required, Walgreens will report the record of all vaccinations to your State Immunization Registry and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Event Registration:

1. To register for an event, please use the link provided. Choose one of the two available first-dose vaccine events. You will be offered 15-minute time slot choices.
2. If you register for the first first-dose vaccine event, be sure you can attend and register for either of the second-dose events, using the same link above. If neither date works for the second dose, you can schedule directly with a local Walgreens to receive in store after 21 days from your first dose.
3. If you register for the second first-dose vaccine event, be sure you can attend and register for the second second-dose event, using the same link above. If this date does not work for the second dose, you can schedule directly with a local Walgreens to receive in store after 21 days from your first dose.

Preparing for Your Vaccine:

• All students, faculty and staff scheduling an immunization appointment should review the Vaccine Fact Sheet or Information Statement, so the pharmacist can address any questions or concerns before the vaccine is provided.
• Participants should bring the completed Vaccine Administration Record (VAR) form, along with photo ID and insurance card, to the event. (Note:your vaccination is free. The federal government is providing the vaccine free of charge to all people living in the United States, regardless of their immigration or health insurance status.)
• All USAHS COVID-19 health and safety protocols must be followed, including wearing masks.
• When waiting for their immunization, participants must practice appropriate social distancing guidelines, maintaining at least 6 feet.
• Efficient immunization: If possible, wear clothing that allows the immunizer to easily access the shoulder area.
• Observation: Vaccine recipients will be asked to wait for 15-30 minutes post-administration to ensure there are no reactions to the vaccine.
• The Walgreens clinic team member will fill out an immunization record card for each recipient of the vaccine; it is important that each vaccine recipient keep this record and bring it when receiving their second dose.

Additional Resources:

• Preparing for your COVID-19 Vaccination
• FAQs regarding your Walgreens clinic vaccination
• USAHS COVID-19 Vaccine Guiding Principles
• USAHS Reentry Protocol FAQs
• World Health Organization COVID-19 Vaccines
• If you are unable to attend one of the above on-campus events, visit org for a list of vaccine providers.

Let’s Get Back to all the things we love and GET VAXED! If you have any additional questions regarding these on-campus vaccination events that are not addressed, please contact me or your campus HR partner.

The entire USAHS community feels enormous pride this week as students successfully graduate at all five of our campuses and set forth to transform the lives of so many. Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, we have been unwavering in our commitment to student success, academic excellence, and campus safety. To this end, in just a few short weeks, we will resume all in-person classes, labs and on-campus academic activities for the start of the 2021 Fall Term.

University leaders continue to carefully monitor changes in pandemic conditions, hospitalization rates, guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and best practices from leading healthcare providers. With this insight, we have updated campus entry requirements to continue to provide a safe campus environment for our students, faculty and staff and permit the return to routine activities on campus that are critical to your academic experience. A safe campus will also allow for activities to expand and more spaces to open throughout the term.

To achieve these objectives while protecting your learning environment and mitigating teaching disruptions, the updated campus entry requirements provide the following options:

• All USAHS students, faculty (including lab assistants and contributing faculty), and staff will be asked to voluntarily disclose and agree to provide documentation by Friday, October 1 that they have been fully vaccinated for COVID-19.
• Those who are not fully vaccinated or do not wish to disclose their vaccination status will be required to submit proof of a valid negative COVID-19 test taken within seven days prior to each campus entry. In other words, the COVID-19 testing date cannot be older than seven days from the date of entry.
• Vendors and campus visitors will be required to comply with the same campus entry requirements, adhering to one of the two options. Visitors will be limited to maintenance, security, patients for academic and research activities, and prospective hires/students.

Appeal from Professional Associations

We have taken seriously the joint statement from the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA), American Physical Therapy Association (APTA), and American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA), which calls on all of us to assume our professional responsibility to promote standards that are critical to protecting the health, safety and welfare of patients, peers, practitioners, and the general public. As such, they are strongly recommending that all healthcare professionals obtain full vaccination status.

The American Nurses Association (ANA), representing the interests of the nation’s 4.2 million registered nurses, has also stated that it supports healthcare employers mandating nurses and all healthcare personnel to get vaccinated against COVID-19 in alignment with current recommendations for immunization by public health officials.

Thorough scientific studies have shown that the COVID-19 vaccines are safe and highly effective at protecting against the virus and reducing the risk of potentially severe complications.

Expanded Spaces and Community Safety Assurances

Many study spaces, lounges, and labs will be open for the Fall Term. Activities in the Center for Innovative Clinical Practice, Activities of Daily Living, and Anatomy labs will also resume. For these to remain open and other spaces and activities to expand, we must contain the spread of COVID-19 on our campuses.

To that end, face masks will continue to be required regardless of vaccination status. As has been our practice, we will revise our protocol throughout the term based on your needs and as new guidance becomes available to maintain a safe campus environment.

Additional Details and FAQs

• All vaccination and testing information shared with the University will be confidential and only viewed by COVID-19 response personnel who follow all Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPPA) protocols.
• Though free vaccinations are easily obtained in our communities, we are working on a plan to facilitate the availability of vaccines on campus in September; more details will be provided soon.
• Free, valid tests remain accessible through diverse sites.
• We have prepared Reentry Protocol FAQs that are posted to our reentry site to answer questions you may have about the University’s new entry protocols for vaccine and testing. Should you have additional questions after reviewing, please contact [email protected].

Despite the challenges presented by the pandemic, USAHS has remained steadfast in our commitment to you and to our communities. We have effectively kept the University operating, advancing students in record numbers toward their degrees. Our success comes from a deep-rooted, collaborative spirit that focuses on educational achievement. Thank you for working together in safeguarding your peers, faculty and the entire USAHS community.

August 9, 2021

As we prepare for the 2021 Fall Term, it is important to reinforce the University’s COVID-19 safety and health protocols. We are strongly encouraging the COVID-19 vaccine for all University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences (USAHS) students to keep our communities safe and to ensure progression in your programs. Furthermore, an increasing number of clinical sites are requiring students and others to be fully vaccinated.

With the risk of exposure to COVID-19 increasing due to the Delta variant, we must continue to work together to keep our USAHS community safe and well. Our hope is to minimize the risk of potential outbreaks that may limit our ability to continue in-person learning and planned activities during the 2021 Fall Term.

Community and Clinical Experiences at Risk
With the upsurge of COVID-19 cases, it has never been more important, if you have not already, to get vaccinated at your earliest opportunity. COVID-19 vaccines are highly effective and are our strongest defense against the virus.

Clinical placements and experiences are at risk for those students who are not vaccinated.

• Many of our health care partners are requiring that students be fully vaccinated prior to the start date of their clinical experiences. In addition, California is now requiring all health care workers to be vaccinated, which affects those doing a clinical or wanting placement in that state. A two-week period is needed following the last shot to be considered fully vaccinated.
• Some sites are providing USAHS with very little notice of their vaccination requirements. This relative lack of notice places unvaccinated students at risk of a significant delay or cancellation of their clinical placement, potentially delaying their graduation date. If the clinical facility institutes a mandatory vaccination policy while the student is in a clinical experience, the student could be required to leave that site until fully vaccinated.
• We also are hearing a similar message from many of our health care partners that hire our students in that failure to vaccinate could impact employment opportunities upon graduation. Unvaccinated students may also face travel limitations for extended quarantine that are not required for those who are fully vaccinated, which could also impact the ability to participate in academic activities, including field experiences.
• Numerous partners that host students for activities connected to their academic program, such as observations and demonstrations, are now requiring vaccines for participants. Failing to vaccinate could result in a loss of opportunities to participate in such required program activities and experiences, and thus could result in delays in completing your program.

REFERENCES: COVID-19 Vaccine Guiding Principles;   Vaccine FAQs

Mask Up for Protection
Face masks have proven effective in preventing the spread of COVID-19. Therefore, we will continue to keep mask requirements in place for all indoor activity on campus, which is consistent with CDC guidance.

• All students must wear masks while they are on campus, both indoors and while entering and exiting campus buildings.
• This requirement applies to all students regardless of vaccination status.
• Face masks are also recommended for unvaccinated persons while outdoors.
• Be prepared: You must bring a mask to wear, compliant with CDC recommendations, along with your USAHS ID each day you come to campus.
• Failure to follow this USAHS policy may result in removal from campus or other disciplinary action.

REFERENCES: COVID-19 Policy on PPE Requirements;   Quick Reference Guide to USAHS COVID-19 Links

It Will Take All of Us to Succeed

For the unvaccinated, the Delta and other variants represent a significant risk of infection and illness. If we vaccinate and continue to wear face masks, we have our best opportunity to prevent the spread of COVID-19 on our campuses and in our communities.

We will continue to monitor the situation in the coming days and weeks and will modify University health protocols based on available data and outcomes for our local areas.

We are eager to see an active, dynamic campus experience. To have the USAHS experience we all want for the Fall Term, we truly need everyone’s commitment to stop COVID-19 and to do our part to end this pandemic. Thank you for your continued support and fortitude.

For the latest COVID-19 updates, visit www.usa.edu/return-to-campus.

July 12, 2021

The University has some exciting news to share as we start the second half of the 2021 Summer Term. Effective immediately, the use of break rooms and lunch areas, including refrigerators and microwaves, is now available for all students, faculty and staff to prepare and eat lunch. We are opening these amenities after continued success with efforts to reduce COVID-19 within our communities.

The following guidelines remain and will be enforced:

BREAK ROOMS:
Please do not congregate or socialize in break rooms or any other common areas.

• You may eat at the tables in the break rooms, but please maintain at least six feet of distance among table occupants.
• You may also eat at your desk, outside or in other common areas that are open, again while maintaining physical distancing.
• Remember to wash your hands frequently and keep masks on indoors when not eating.
• Limit group gatherings, even while outdoors.

Please clean up after yourself, including wiping down tables and chairs that you use.

Per USAHS health and safety guidelines, the library, study rooms and other common areas outside of break rooms/areas with microwaves remain closed at this time.

MICROWAVES AND REFRIGERATORS:

• Bring and store in the refrigerator only the lunch items, snacks and beverages that you plan to consume that day. All refrigerators will be cleaned out on Friday afternoons, and any remaining items will be discarded.
• Please gather and warm your food quickly to avoid congregating.
• Please clean up after yourself and wipe down countertops and the inside of the microwaves that you use.

Vending machines and food service, including catering deliveries, are not available on campus at this time. Please help us by following protocols and keeping areas clean, so that we can continue to make these amenities available for everyone on campus.

MASKS: If you are not eating or drinking, masks must be worn while indoors on campus. As a reminder:

• Masks are required for anyone entering or exiting any USAHS campus building.
• Masks must be worn in all campus buildings, including when you are on the phone, on video conference, with others in an enclosed office and even when physically distanced from others.
• Procedural masks supplied by the University must be worn in labs.
• Frequent handwashing is encouraged.

Please reference the PPE guidelines on the Reentry website for detailed information.

All other University COVID-19 protocols remain in effect and will continue to be enforced on campus, including daily health screenings, temperature checks and use of personal protective equipment. We are pleased to offer the use of break rooms, refrigerators and microwaves and trust that these guidelines will be followed.

Please reference https://www.usa.edu/return-to-campus/ for additional information. If you have any questions, please call 1-855-GOUSAHS (1-855-468-7247) or send an email to [email protected]. Stay healthy, be healthy and be smart!

June 10, 2021

The following is an important update on COVID-19 protocols and new information about the use of masks while outdoors.

Mask Use While Outdoors on Campus

Effective immediately, masks are no longer required to be worn outdoors while on USAHS campus grounds. The exception is when you are waiting in line for entry to a campus building, where masks are required. We do recommend following Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines and healthcare best practices:

In general, people do not need to wear masks when outdoors. However, particularly in areas of substantial to high transmission, CDC recommends that people who are not fully vaccinated wear a mask in crowded outdoor settings or during activities that involve sustained close contact with other people who are not fully vaccinated.

We also reiterate the recommendation to maintain the practice of social distancing and to limit group gatherings, even while outdoors.

Mask Use and COVID-19 Protocol Reminders Indoors on Campus

All other University COVID-19 protocols remain in effect and will continue to be enforced on campus, including daily health screenings, temperature checks and use of face masks indoors. As a reminder:

• Masks are required for anyone entering or exiting any USAHS campus building.
• Masks must be worn in all USAHS campus buildings, including when you are on the phone, on video conference, with others in an enclosed office and even when physically distanced from others.
• Procedural masks supplied by the University must be worn in labs.
• Frequent handwashing is encouraged.
• Please reference the PPE guidelines on the Reentry website for detailed information.

Additional Reminders when Entering and Exiting Campus:

• Fill out Daily Health Screening questions prior to arrival on campus and have your QR code ready.
• Allow plenty of time before assigned class or workday start; we recommend arriving 30 minutes prior to allow ample time for reentry procedures.
• If you leave campus during the day, including a visit to an affiliated clinic or for lunch, please keep your wristband issued upon initial entry that day, as you will need to present it to reenter the building.
• Remember to scan out when you leave campus at the end of each day.

Thank you for your continued support for our collective community health by following USAHS protocols. Stay healthy, be healthy and be smart! If you have any questions, please call 1-855-GOUSAHS (1-855-468-7247) or send an email to [email protected].

Update April 14:

• Effective April 15: Face shield and glove use will no longer be required; students, faculty and staff will have the option to wear them if preferred. USAHS will have supplies of both available. Hand washing and social distancing remain critical.

Following is an important update on COVID-19 protocols and new information on face shields.

What guidelines do I need to follow – state regulatory or campus guidelines?

All University COVID-19 protocols remain in effect, in alignment with Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines. The USAHS community is expected to follow these adapted procedures both on and off campus. Please continue to practice safe health habits, including washing your hands, mask wearing, social distancing and limiting group gatherings.

It may be tempting to forgo these important measures, as local and state jurisdictions loosen requirements and spring holiday celebrations near. However, our communities are still vulnerable, and we want to encourage you to follow good judgment and not let your guard down as we enter these last weeks of the Spring Term.

As a reminder, University COVID-19 protocols include the wearing of masks while entering, leaving and on campus, including in labs. Face shields and gloves are also required in labs.

Is there flexibility in the type of face shields I wear on campus?

We now permit the use of face shields other than the one the University has provided with the requirement that CDC recommendations are followed, as indicated:

Face shields: Provide barrier protection to the facial area and related mucous membranes (eyes, nose, lips) and are considered an alternative to goggles. Face shields are not meant to function as primary respiratory protection and should be used concurrently with a medical mask (for droplet precautions) or a respirator (for airborne precautions) if aerosol-generating procedure is performed. They should cover the forehead, extend below the chin, and wrap around the side of the face. Face shields are available in both disposable and reusable options.

We want to emphasize the CDC recommendation that the face shield cover the forehead, extend below the chin and wrap around the side of the face. If the non-USAHS-issued face shield does not conform to these recommendations, your faculty member will require you to replace it with the one issued by the University.

Thank you for your continued support for our collective community health and for following USAHS protocols. Stay healthy, be healthy and be smart! If you have any questions, please call 1-855-GOUSAHS (1-855-468-7247) or send an email to [email protected].

As we prepare to return to campus for lab instruction in the 2021 Spring Term, we will continue to monitor the Centers for Disease Controls and Prevention (CDC) and local health department guidelines to align with all recommendations for providing a safe and healthy learning environment for all.

Campus Consistency: Because our campuses are in three states, which may have different approaches to managing the pandemic, USAHS has applied consistent protocols at all locations to keep our campuses safe and healthy. Being on campus is a privilege, and it will take a collective effort in consistently doing the right thing as health professionals and leaders to maintain the welfare of the University and wellbeing of students and employees.

Training and Protocols: We recommend you review the Return-to-Campus Protocols below to ensure a smooth return to on-campus instruction.

What are the requirements to enter campus?

• Complete COVID-19 Safety Training prior to returning to campus.
• Complete Personal Health Screening each day you come to campus.
• Ensure you have Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to arrive on campus.

What is the required COVID-19 Safety Training?
COVID-19 Safety Training supports safe and healthy on-campus practices. This required training includes short video modules, takes approximately 25 minutes and covers the following topics:

• COVID-19 Risk and Symptoms
• COVID-19 Prevention
• PPE
• Health Screening Requirements and USAHS Protocols

This training is required for all students who will be returning to campus, and employees who are coming to campus for the first time. Everyone is encouraged to review the training again, as it has been updated and refreshed. Upon completion of the training, you will be asked to electronically sign an acknowledgement confirming that you have completed all the modules and that you understand the safety and health protocols and the campus environment to which you are returning. You will not be allowed to enter campus until you have completed this training and subsequent acknowledgement form.

How do I complete my Personal Health Screening?
A mobile-friendly, online form will be used for your personal health screening that involves taking your temperature and answering questions related to COVID-19 symptoms and any potential exposure you may have had to the virus. Completing the personal health screening is required each day you come to campus and must be completed on that day; the entry code you will receive is only valid for that day. We also strongly recommend that you complete the personal health screening for several days prior to your first day of return to campus. COVID-19 diagnostic testing is not required for returning to campus.

Do I need to bring PPE to enter campus?
A mask is required to enter campus. Be sure to bring a cloth, procedural, surgical, KN95 or N95 mask with you and put it on prior to exiting your vehicle.

• If you are entering the campus for the first time, a PPE package for lab use, including two reusable cloth procedural masks, gloves and a reusable face shield, will be provided by USAHS and distributed in your first lab session. You will receive procedural masks for instruction once in your lab. Remember to bring the cleaned and sanitized face shield with you to campus for each lab.
• Returning students should bring the reusable masks and the cleaned and sanitized face shields they previously received. Additional disposable gloves and procedural masks also will be available for subsequent lab sessions.

What is expected of me off campus to keep my colleagues and the campus safe?
Each of us is responsible for our own actions, which bear directly on the health and welfare of the USAHS community. Please consider the activities you are currently involved in as you prepare to return to campus, e.g., outings, restaurants, gyms, events. We depend on each other for our individual and collective health and safety. As health professionals and agents of change, your conscientious behavior before you arrive on campus, when you are on campus and, as important, outside of campus is essential to protecting each other, so that our campuses can continue operating.

Thank you for taking the time to review the protocols and complete the necessary training. I cannot emphasize enough our continued commitment and dependence on each other to create a safe and healthy learning environment.

You will find additional resources, including return to campus video messages, on www.usa.edu/return-to-campus/. If you have any questions about campus access requirements, health screenings, etc., please call 1-855-GOUSAHS (1-855-468-7247) or send an email to [email protected]. If you need academic information or class schedules, please coordinate with your faculty advisor.

Remember, what you do matters. Stay healthy; be healthy and model the behaviors and values that will enable our global healthcare community to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic. We look forward to seeing you on campus soon!

November 3, 2020

As we pass the mid-point of the Fall Trimester, it seems an appropriate time to look forward to the start of the Spring Term.  Please take a moment to review the important information below.

Our Plan for Spring

Classes will remain virtual for the Spring Term.  All first-professional and nursing students will return to campus only for essential lab skills and assessments at specific points throughout the term but not before February 13.

• Flex students in the PT and OT programs will begin returning on February 13.
• Residential PT and OT students will begin returning on February 17th.

Specific guidance and class schedules for all programs will be available by November 13.

PPE Requirements

To enter campus, you must follow these safety protocols:

• Complete your daily health screening form each day before coming to campus.
• Wear a mask that covers your nose and mouth at all times in campus buildings.
• In labs, when working with each other or observing, you must wear all pieces of PPE provided by the University including a procedural mask, face shield, and gloves.

If you require an exception to the PPE protocol, you must submit an accommodation form to [email protected].  Accommodation is required for any variation from the procedural mask or face shield provided by the University.

Failure to comply with our PPE protocol will result in removal from campus and could include the shutdown of labs if participants are not wearing the required PPE.  Noncompliance could also result in referral to the Professional Misconduct Committee or dismissal from the University.  The detailed policy is available for your reference under Policies on the Reentry Page.

When not on campus, wear a mask, maintain six feet of distance, avoid large gatherings, and wash your hands frequently.  These measures will help protect the health and safety of our community and keep our campuses operating for your continued learning.

Questions?

Contact [email protected] or call 855-GOUSAHS (855-468-7247).

Thank you for your cooperation with these guidelines.  Your efforts contribute to the continued safety of all our students, faculty, and staff.

October 9, 2020

In the coming weeks we will welcome students, faculty, and staff back to USAHS campuses for required Fall Term lab instruction.  This will be our second term operating under the Reentry plan designed to advance students toward on-time graduation while maintaining the health and safety of our campus community.

Update on Identified COVID-19 Cases

As of July 6^th, the first date students returned to campus since the pandemic began, more than 10,500 campus entries were logged by more than 2,000 individual faculty, staff and students.  To date, we have experienced two identified cases involving individuals on-campus who tested positive for COVID-19.

In both of these incidents, rapid response protocols were immediately implemented, including contact tracing (notifying people who may have had direct and extended contact on campus with affected individuals), quarantine/isolation of affected individuals, and deep cleaning of those areas of campus that may have experienced potential exposure. None of the individuals who quarantined tested positive for COVID-19. To protect the health and safety of our campus communities, and out of an abundance of caution, we also facilitated mandatory off-campus quarantine/isolation of several individuals with potential COVID exposure.

We are pleased to have experienced a very low rate of COVID exposure on our campus to date.  In order to maintain this strong record, we require everyone’s ongoing commitment to maintaining campus safety by following established protocols.  Please see below for further details and reminders related to our contact tracing and campus Reentry process.

Contact Tracing Process

The University designated several COVID-19 response team members who have been trained in contact tracing and respond to any potential presumed or confirmed COVID-19 cases on campus. In addition, the University addresses exposure-notification obligations by following these steps:

• Assess potential risk. The CDC has determined that COVID-19 exposure risk begins when someone is within 6 feet of an infected person for 15 minutes or more without appropriate PPE. The agency also notes that infected people can spread the virus 48 hours before the onset of symptoms, referred to as the 6-15-48 Rule. Following CDC recommendations, the University will send home any individuals who have had a risk of exposure and advise them to maintain social distancing, contact their medical provider, and self-monitor for 14 days from the date of exposure.
• Be prepared. If an individual determines they are COVID-19 positive and/or contracts the virus during a time when they have been present on campus, the individual will be asked to provide a list of people with whom they were in contact at the campus.  They also will be asked questions to better understand their movements on campus to provide guidance on quarantine protocols and seeking medical assistance. The University may also consult meeting logs and other records of entry and exit from the campus to identify potential contacts.
• Maintain confidentiality. The University has the right to ask individuals if they have symptoms or have been diagnosed with COVID-19 without violating the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). However, the University will take appropriate measures to maintain the confidentiality of an infected individual beyond those conducting the investigation to the extent possible.
• Work with state and local health departments. If the University is advised of a positive COVID-19 case on campus, the appropriate state or local health department will be notified as required. This allows public health contact tracers to follow lines of transmission external to the University. In cooperating with this effort, the University may provide information on an individual’s schedule, contact information and set- up of the campus.
• Follow up with quarantined individuals. The University will maintain contact with individuals who have been required to quarantine, and, if any of them show symptoms or are diagnosed with COVID-19, may begin another contact tracing exercise to identify and notify those who might have been exposed to the virus.

Returning to Campus After a Suspected or Confirmed COVID-19 Diagnosis

Individuals should not return to campus after a suspected or confirmed COVID-19 diagnosis until they meet the following criteria to discontinue home isolation:

• Positive diagnosis: If confirmed/presumed positive for COVID-19, you may return to campus if:
• at least 10 days have passed since symptoms first appeared, AND
• you have improvement in respiratory symptoms (e.g., cough, shortness of breath); AND
• you have at least 24 hours of no fever without the use of fever-reducing medication AND
• you have received clearance to reenter campus by a member of the USAHS Reentry Team.
• Exposed to COVID-19: You are required to quarantine for a minimum of 14 days AND receive clearance to reenter campus by a member of the USAHS Reentry Team.

Please feel free to reach out to a member of the Reentry Team at [email protected] or 855-GOUSAHS should you have any questions or require assistance.

September 18, 2020

The Fall Term is off to a great start! As we prepare to return to campus for lab instruction, we will continue to monitor CDC and local health department guidelines to align our Reentry plans with all recommendations for providing a safe and healthy learning environment for all.  Please review the Return-to-Campus Protocol described below to facilitate trouble-free campus arrivals.

To simplify updated procedures and provide clear guidance, the Protocol is presented in a Q&A format with live embedded links which are divided into five sections:

• Before You Arrive on Campus
• Each Day on Campus
• The Academic Experience While on Campus
• Implications of Illness or COVID-19 Positive Testing
• Accommodations and Concerns

Thank you for taking the time to review each section and complete the necessary training.  I cannot emphasize enough our continued commitment and dependence on each other to create a safe environment. If you have any questions about campus access requirements and health screenings etc., please call 1-855-GOUSAHS (1-855-468-7247) or send an email to [email protected] If you need academic information or class schedules, please coordinate with your Faculty Advisor.

Return-to-Campus Protocol

Before You Arrive on Campus

What are the requirements to enter campus?

• COVID-19 Safety Training
• Daily Health Screening
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to arrive on campus

What is the required COVID-19 Safety Training?

COVID-19 Safety Training supports safe and healthy on-campus practices.  This required training includes short video modules, takes approximately 20 minutes, and covers the following topics:

• COVID-19 Risk and Symptoms
• COVID-19 Prevention
• Personal Protective Equipment
• Health Screening Requirements and USAHS Protocols

This training is required for all students who will be returning to campus although everyone is encouraged to review the training again because it has been updated and refreshed. Upon completion of the training, you will be asked to electronically sign an acknowledgement confirming that you have completed all the modules and that you understand the safety and health protocols and the campus environment to which you are returning. You will not be allowed to enter campus until you have completed this training.

How do I complete my Personal Health Screening?

A mobile-friendly online form will be used for personal health screening which involves taking your temperature daily and answering questions related to COVID-19 symptoms and any potential exposure you may have had to the virus. Completing the personal health screening each day prior to your first day of return to campus is strongly recommended. After your first day of return to campus, the personal health screening will be required daily for the duration of the Fall Term or until you are no longer regularly coming to campus. COVID-19 diagnostic testing is not required for returning to campus.

Do I need to bring PPE to enter campus?

A mask will be required to enter campus. Be sure to bring a cloth, procedural, surgical, KN95, or N95 mask with you.  If you are returning to campus for the first time, a PPE package for lab use, including two reusable cloth procedural masks, gloves and a reusable face shield, will be provided by the University and distributed in your first lab session.  Returning students should bring the reusable masks and the cleaned and sanitized face shields they previously received. Additional disposable gloves and masks also will be available for subsequent lab sessions.

What is expected of me off campus to keep my colleagues and the campus safe?

Each of us is responsible for our own actions which bear directly on the health and welfare of the USAHS community.  Please consider the activities you are currently involved in as you prepare to return to campus, e.g. outings, restaurants, gyms, events.  We depend on each other for our individual and collective health and safety.  Your conscientious behavior before you arrive on campus, when you are on campus or outside of campus is essential to protecting each other so that the campus can continue operating.

Each Day on Campus

What is the Required Daily Temperature Check?

In addition to your health screening, a daily on-campus temperature check will be required of those coming to campus. A hands-free temperature scan is located at each campus entry and will provide confirmation that you are cleared to enter campus that day, based on your temperature reading. Please review the instructions for using the temperature scan, which are included in the COVID-19 Safety Training materials, prior to your campus arrival.

How will I know where to go once I enter campus?

Once you arrive on campus, please go directly to your workspace.  You will find signage throughout the campus to maintain appropriate flow of people through the facility and to support social distancing.  Based on current safety practices, signs also will provide information regarding bathrooms and exit processes.

How long are students on campus?

Students will be on campus only for the duration of their lab classes.  No other activities, meetings or gatherings will be permitted.

Will students be required to wear PPE while on campus?

All students must wear masks and appropriate PPE at all times. The CDC recommends this, and we will be following all CDC guidelines for universities and healthcare facilities. The proper use of PPE supports a safe environment for learning and working with each other. Not following safety protocols will result in disciplinary action. As future health care providers you will be wearing PPE to treat a variety of ill patients.

What protective equipment is available and necessary?

Appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) must be worn at all times when in labs or on campus.  Cloth masks must be worn when arriving and during your stay on campus.  If you drive to campus, put your mask on before exiting your car and wear it when leaving campus until you return to your vehicle. Special protective equipment will be used in labs including surgical masks, gloves and face shields.

What are the implications for students who do not follow safety protocols?

Everyone’s collaboration is required to protect each other and our campus.  Those students who are unwilling to follow safety protocol will be subject to disciplinary action as found in the Student Handbook.  This behavior depicts the professionalism and care you exercise as future health care practitioners.

Will I be able to meet with my cohort and friends on campus?

No gatherings will be permitted on campus or on campus grounds outside of scheduled labs. Also, visitors will not be allowed on campus at this time.

Will I be able to store my belongings in the lockers?

Lockers will not be available. Be sure to bring a bag or backpack with you to accommodate your belongings.

Will food and beverages be available on campus? 

Food service, including meal deliveries, will not be available on campus, nor will vending machines and refrigerators be operational per health and safety guidelines. Please bring your own non-perishable lunch, snacks, and beverages to enjoy during breaks in your assigned classroom. Personal-sized insulated lunch bags with frozen cold packs or ice are recommended to keep items cool.

The Academic Experience While on Campus

When will students be allowed on campus each day?

Start times for classes will be staggered to allow safe entry to campus without crowding. You will be asked to enter 15-30 minutes prior to your class and go directly to your assigned classroom. Only nine students are scheduled in each class to prevent crowding while entering campus and to meet social distancing requirements.

What is the Lab Class Experience going to be?

To support your health and safety and to comply with guidelines issued by the CDC, state regulators and local authorities, the lab classes will be structured in the following way:

• Restricted to nine students per section plus one faculty to adhere to 10-person maximum gathering guidance.
• Six feet of separation for lab workstations and equipment.
• Fixed classroom assignments so that students in each subsection will remain in the same classroom for the time they are on campus to avoid any potential risks associated with intermingling.
   

What is lab schedule for students?

Detailed schedules for labs being offered during the Fall Term are posted to the Reentry website. Current schedules can be downloaded and printed for your reference.

Will all classrooms be open?

Specific classrooms will be open only for skills-based instruction.  Non-lab work associated with the courses offered during the Fall Term will continue virtually.

Will I be able to study on campus?

No. Common areas, including the library, lounge areas and study rooms, will remain closed until larger group gatherings are deemed safe per health and safety guidelines.

Implications of Illness or COVID-19 Positive Testing

What happens if I don’t pass the Required Temperature Check or Daily Health Screening?

If you are not approved to enter campus based on your required temperature check or daily health screening, you must stay home and contact your supervisor as well as [email protected] for further instructions.  If you are not feeling well, please visit the CDC’s webpage on “What to do if You are Sick” for guidance.  Also consult with your health care provider and follow all medical advice.  You must be symptom-free for 72 hours before you will be approved to enter campus.

What happens if I test positive for COVID-19?

• A positive COVID-19 diagnosis requires a 14-day quarantine period and a note from your health care provider that you are fit to return to campus.
• In addition, you must be symptom-free for three days (72 hours) after recovery from COVID-19.  This includes resolution of a fever without the use of fever-reducing medications, improvement in respiratory symptoms (e.g., cough, shortness of breath), and the passage of at least 10 days since symptoms first appeared.
   

What happens if someone who has been on campus tests positive?

Depending on the situation, the University will determine an appropriate campus response such as, but not limited to, closing off areas, pausing activities, conducting deep cleaning and disinfecting, and alerting local health officials.

What other situations will prevent me or others from coming to campus?

You will not be able to enter campus for a duration of 14 days under the following circumstances:

• You are identified by the Department of Health or a certified contact tracer as having had close contact to an individual who is diagnosed or presumed positive with COVID-19.
• Upon your return from travel by cruise ship, international travel, or travel to areas designated as “Level 3 Travel Health Notice: Widespread ongoing transmission with restrictions on entry to the US” by the CDC or other areas restricted by local regulations. You must also complete a USAHS Travel History Form.

Accommodations and Concerns

What if I have a medical condition that makes it risky for me to return to campus?

To request an accommodation, complete the Reasonable Accommodation Request Form available through myUSA, Student Services tab, Disability Services link. Submit the completed form and appropriate documentation to [email protected] by September 28, 2020.  A delay in submitting the request may result in not having approved accommodations prior to the start of class. The Office of Student Affairs will review your request and inform you in writing of the decision. You will be asked to sign a form indicating your agreement to the accommodations being provided and will be responsible for notifying your instructor(s) of the approved accommodations. An accommodation may result in a delay in program progression and a later completion date.

I’m concerned about returning to campus, but don’t have a medical condition that qualifies for an accommodation.  Can I complete the labs virtually?

No.  The remaining skills you need to advance in the curriculum, be prepared for your clinical rotations, meet accreditation requirements and graduate on time will be learned in the on-campus lab setting and cannot be accomplished virtually.

What happens if I choose not to return to campus to complete the required lab work? 

If a student chooses not to return for the required lab sessions, they will be withdrawn from applicable courses and will repeat them in full in the following trimester per the course withdrawal policy. In this case, you will incur full tuition charges for repeated courses and should expect a trimester delay in your graduation date. However, you are permitted to request an accommodation. If the accommodation is approved, based on a documented medical necessity, you will receive an incomplete for only the lab-based courses and will make up the work upon return to campus. This option is limited to only those students with documented health-related concerns. Students without an approved accommodation will withdraw from only those courses that require on-campus lab work and complete the fully online courses they are currently taking.  Based on successful completion of online courses, these students will only repeat in the next term those courses requiring lab work.

August 24, 2020

Due to the continued shortages of disposable exam gloves and interruptions in the supply chain, USAHS is recommending that, where possible, gloves by faculty and students in lab sessions be sanitized to extend their usage throughout the day rather than be discarded after each use.  The CDC indicates that this procedure should be considered in times of extreme glove shortages.  Because USAHS students and faculty are not treating COVID-19 patients on campus, and due to other safeguards in place, we ask that you follow the CDC-recommended procedures described below for extended daily use of disposable gloves.

Alcohol-Based Hand Sanitizer (ABHS) is the preferred method for performing hand hygiene of gloved hands in healthcare settings when the gloves are not visibly soiled. Research has shown multiple disposable latex and nitrile glove brands maintained their integrity when treated with ABHS_1,2. Disposable medical gloves can be disinfected for up to six (6) applications of ABHS or until the gloves become otherwise contaminated or ineffective for any of the following reasons:

Visible soiling or contamination with blood, respiratory or nasal secretions, or other body fluids occurs:

• Any signs of damage (e.g., holes, rips, tearing) or degradation are observed
• Maximum of four hours of continuous use
• Doffing. Previously removed gloves should not be re-donned as the risk of tearing and contamination increases. Therefore, disposable glove “re-use” should not be performed
• All used disposable gloves should be disposed of at the end of the lab session

To sanitize gloves (while donned), follow hand hygiene guidance for proper application of ABHS:

• Put product on gloved hands and rub hands together
• Cover all surfaces until gloves feel dry
• This should take about 20 seconds

While soap and water or diluted bleach solution may be used in place of ABHS, it is not as effective and therefore is not the preferred practice.

Adopting this recommended process will not only ensure that we have adequate supplies of disposable gloves for future classes, in case of continued shortages or supply chain interruption, it will also ensure that USAHS is doing our part to support sufficient PPE for front-line clinicians who are actively treating COVID-19 patients.

References

1. Gao P, Horvatin M, Niezgoda G, Weible R, Shaffer R. Effect of multiple alcohol-based hand rub applications on the tensile properties of thirteen brands of medical exam nitrile and latex glovesexternal icon. Journal of Occupational and Environmental Hygiene. 2016, 13:12, 905-914, doi: 10.1080/15459624.2016.1191640
2. Pitten FA, Muller P, Heeg P, Kramer A. The efficacy of repeated disinfection of disposable gloves during usageexternal icon. Zentralbl Hyg Umweltmed. 1999, 201(6), 555-62.

Thank you for your cooperation.

August 21, 2020

I hope you are staying well and your preparations for final exams and other end-of-term activities are progressing as you have planned.  With the end of the Summer Term only days away, I wanted to provide some useful information, updates, and reminders:

Fall Term Lab Schedules are Available: Schedules for Fall Term labs have been finalized with much effort from your faculty, program directors and support staff.  Download a copy here: go to https://www.usa.edu/return-to-campus/ and click on “Campus Information.”

Sign Up for Your Fall Term Lab Subsection: Students in terms 2 or higher will be able to sign up for their preferred subsection for Fall Term lab sessions on September 1st.  Program Administrators will send an email with links to sign up on Sign-Up Genius. The links will be provided for each campus by term and program (Resident or Flex). Watch for more details in next week’s communication.

Staying Healthy During the Break:   During the term break, please remember how important it is for us to be careful about the activities we choose to engage in while off campus.  To maintain a safe and healthy campus environment when we return for the Fall Term, we must be mindful of our actions, both on and off campus, that bear directly on the health and welfare of the entire USAHS community.

We expect you to continue to follow CDC guidelines over the break. Please wear a mask in public, wash your hands frequently, remain socially distant and avoid all gatherings that do not allow you to follow these guidelines.  This is important to prevent COVID-19 transmission that can directly impact our ability to keep the University operating. Safeguarding each other, protecting our campus environment, and demonstrating professionalism are the responsibilities of the entire USAHS community.

Required Training for a Safe and Healthy Return to Fall Term:  Students who are returning to campus for the first time in Fall Term must complete required COVID-19 Safety Training, reentry.usa.edu/training, in order to enter campus.  We highly recommend that all students retake the COVID-19 Safety Training as well. This online training takes approximately 20 minutes and will provide important reminders as you prepare to return to campus for the Fall Term, including:

• COVID-19 Risk and Symptoms
• COVID-19 Prevention
• Personal Protective Equipment
• Health Screening Requirements and USAHS Protocols

I hope you have the opportunity to take a relaxing and well-deserved break before starting the Fall Term! Thank you for your continued cooperation and commitment to your studies, the University and each other.

August 14, 2020

We appreciate your support and cooperation with necessary protocols to support a continued healthy and safe return to campus in Phase One of Reentry. It is important that we all continue to be vigilant about wearing required PPE at all times on campus, follow social distancing guidelines, and wash our hands frequently.

Face Shields:  The face shield that has been provided to you by USAHS must be worn while you are in your lab classroom. The face shield, in combination with your procedural mask, offers an additional level of protection for both students and faculty while working in the lab. Each student is issued one face shield. Please remember to bring it with you to campus and to clean it thoroughly after every use. When in a classroom, face shields may only be removed temporarily during specific lab activities such as a lying face down on a high-low table or to have a snack when socially distanced from other class participants.

Campus Lab Session Schedules to be Released Next Week:  Fall Term lab session schedules for all campuses and programs will be available and distributed next week.  Faculty, staff and program directors worked diligently to integrate feedback from students and faculty in preparing the Fall schedule.  We continue to prioritize your safety and the time that students need to achieve competencies in critical clinical skills that cannot be attained virtually.

Your mindfulness of the steps we all need to take to maintain a safe and healthy campus environment – both on and off campus – is much appreciated.  These efforts will support continued campus operations and your ability to keep learning necessary skills.

August 6, 2020

Our Reentry approach has focused on providing a safe and healthy learning environment for the students, faculty and staff who have returned to USAHS campuses in Phase One.  We appreciate that you have followed our safety protocols and have been vigilant about wearing required PPE as you enter campuses and work in your labs. We recognize the length of time some of you are wearing PPE and that you would benefit from taking breaks and enjoy a brief time outside.

For those students, faculty, or staff who are scheduled to be on campus for more than four hours, please feel free to take your classroom break outdoors while remaining on the campus grounds. Wear a cloth or procedural mask as you exit and re-enter the building. Masks must also be worn outside even on campus when you are unable to observe the CDC recommendation for maintaining a minimum 6-foot distance from other persons.  On the Miami Campus, if you are outside even on campus you must wear a mask at all times even when maintaining a 6-foot distance from other persons, except when eating or smoking, as required by local regulations. If you are walking on a trail or sidewalk, warn others of your presence as you pass.

We are all responsible for maintaining a safe and healthy campus environment by being mindful of our actions, both on and off campus, that bear directly on the health and welfare of the entire USAHS community.

We ask that you follow CDC guidelines at all times – wear a mask on campus and when in public, wash your hands frequently, remain socially distant and avoid all gatherings that do not allow you to follow these guidelines.  This is important as it helps to prevent COVID-19 transmission and directly impacts our ability to keep the campuses open.

Tell Us What You Think

Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, USAHS has supported student learning by making library resources, all student services, and IT support available virtually.  We are interested in our experiences with these virtual services and would appreciate your input on what is working well for you and what we could make better.

We encourage you to complete this short survey to help inform how we can provide you the best virtual student services experience moving forward.  Responses are confidential and will be analyzed in aggregate.  The survey closes at end of day Friday, August 21.  Thank you in advance for your support.

July 31, 2020

Since we began welcoming students back to our campuses in Phase One of Reentry, our primary goal has been to keep the entire USAHS community as healthy and safe as possible.  We have been fortunate to achieve this goal, thanks to the diligence and commitment of our students, faculty and staff.  Soon, with the upcoming Fall Term, additional students will be coming to campus and our attention to following safe practices is essential to preserving a safe and healthy campus experience for everyone.

STAYING CAMPUS-READY

Our consistent direction has been for us all to be cautious about the activities we choose to engage in when we are off campus.  We are all responsible for maintaining a safe and healthy campus environment by being mindful of our actions, both on and off campus, that bear directly on the health and welfare of the entire USAHS community.

We expect that you follow CDC guidelines at all times – wear a mask when in public, wash your hands frequently, remain socially distant and avoid all gatherings that do not allow you to follow these guidelines.  This is important as it helps to prevent COVID-19 transmission and that directly impacts our ability to keep the University operating. We are strictly holding our students to their Code of Conduct and those few who have failed to adhere to expectations have received disciplinary action.  Safeguarding each other, protecting our campus environment, and demonstrating professionalism are expected of the entire USAHS community.

OUR PLAN FOR FALL

Additional details about on-campus lab/residency sessions for Fall Term have been decided with input from administration, faculty, program directors, Faculty Council, and others who impact your learning experience.  All first-professional and nursing students will be virtual and return to campus only for essential lab skills and assessments at specific points throughout the term but not before September 21. Specific guidance for programs is as follows:

• Physical Therapy Residential students will attend on-campus lab sessions on a weekly schedule like that used in the Summer Term.  The schedule will include only those cohorts whose coursework requires more than three hours of face-to-face lab work.  These students will be on campus for six days during the term. The number of hours per day is currently being finalized. Any student having to remediate will come to campus more than six days during the term

• Physical Therapy Flex students whose cohort has coursework requiring more than three hours of face-to-face lab work will attend two weekend intensives during the term.

• Occupational Therapy students will attend up to three intensives to be scheduled for no more than three days each.  Intensives for residential students will be scheduled on weekdays and for flex students, on weekends.

• Speech-Language Pathology and Nursing students will attend their usual one residency.

A detailed schedule of on-campus lab sessions for students in all programs will be distributed by the end of August.

PPE REMINDER

Masks are always required when you are on campus grounds.  Put your mask on before exiting your car when you arrive to campus.  Also, wear your mask when exiting campus and do not remove it until you are back in your car.

Your commitment to continuing learning and to helping our community stay safe and healthy is greatly appreciated.

As we advance successfully through the Summer Term, we wanted to define our approach to instruction for the Fall Term, which remains on schedule to start September 8.  We will offer a combination of virtual learning and on-campus labs and residencies focused on introducing, developing, and mastering the skills you need to be an exceptional practitioner, be prepared for your clinical rotations/fieldwork, advance toward graduation, and meet accreditation requirements.

• Most classes will be conducted virtually, allowing students to study and engage from home. We are continuing to leverage our advanced multimedia capabilities to develop high quality, USAHS faculty-led virtual lab demonstrations. In addition, our faculty are actively enhancing their instruction plans to include advanced learning technologies and innovative activities that create an engaging and participatory virtual learning environment.
• Some courses will offer interactive virtual simulations to reinforce clinical skills, while expanding your telehealth proficiencies and preparing you for the future of healthcare in a changing world.  You may interact with trained patient actors in faculty-developed simulations of authentic telehealth experiences. Then, you will debrief the experiences with peers and revisit videos to review and reflect.
• Labs/residencies will feature a combination of virtual and on-campus skills instruction and assessment. Lab/residency activities that do not require specialized campus equipment, relate specifically to clinical and patient safety, or are not required for immediate clinical experiences, may be conducted virtually. At-home lab sessions are being designed by faculty teams, with support from instructional and media designers, to maximize active learning and participation. In addition, depending on the specific lab experiences for your term and course, you may be provided with lab/residency materials to enhance your at-home learning.
• On-campus lab/residency sessions will start September 21, depending on your program and term. Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Speech-Language Pathology, and Nursing programs will have on-campus lab experiences at specific points during the term.
• Full schedules for on-campus lab sessions and residencies are planned to be announced by August 28.  The Fall schedules will prioritize campus-based hands-on time required to achieve competencies in critical clinical skills that cannot be achieved virtually and those students who need to prepare for immediate clinical experiences.

You will be receiving a survey regarding your Summer term virtual learning experience and University support services.  Please respond to ensure that we reinforce the areas you find most helpful and focus on those areas of greatest improvement. Please watch your usa.edu email, the MyUSA portal and the Reentry website on the usa.edu website for updates.

July 10, 2020

We are off to a great start for our return to campus in Phase One of Reentry!  We are happy to see students back on campus for required lab classes and welcome those of you who are returning for the first time the week of July 13.

As a reminder, to make campus entry more efficient and to support the safety and health of our campus environment, please note the following requirements and consider bookmarking these important links for future access.

PRIOR TO ARRIVING:

• Complete the required COVID-19 Safety Training, reentry.usa.edu/training, before coming to campus.  You will not be permitted to enter campus until this training is completed.
• Review the entry procedures video, https://youtu.be/nXKKcyaFrN8.
• Finish your online health screening form, reentry.usa.edu, each morning prior to coming to campus to receive that day’s QR code. Forms completed the prior evening are invalid for the next day.
• Put on your mask to enter campus.
• Find your USAHS ID.

ENTRY:

• Show your USAHS ID to enter campus.
• Scan that day’s QR Code and have your temperature screened.

LAB WORK

In labs, always wear:

1. A procedural/surgical mask (Cloth masks are acceptable only for the time that you are NOT in your lab session.)
2. Gloves
3. A face shield – clean your face shield daily, as demonstrated in COVID-19 Safety Training, and bring it back to campus each day.

EXIT:

• Dispose of your PPE properly, put on your cloth mask, follow the signs for the designated exit once you have completed your lab skills and or practicals.
• Scan out.  Be sure to scan out using the same QR code when exiting the building.  Please do not skip this important step.

Contact 1-855-GOUSAHS (1-855-468-7247) or email [email protected] with questions.  We are here for you and look forward to seeing you on campus!

July 3, 2020

I hope you are enjoying a happy July 4^th holiday weekend.  We are looking forward to welcoming those of you who will be returning to campus over the next few weeks for Phase One of Reentry.  To help with a safe and efficient start to our return, I wanted to remind you of some resources available to you and to share a new video that will demonstrate the campus environment, entry, health, and safety requirements. This video highlights our general approach and procedures. However, be sure to follow all directions and signage on each campus site, as additional protocols may be implemented for your health and safety.

Please reference these links for further information on preparing for your return to campus:

• Required COVID-19 Safety Training
• Required daily health screening
• Reentry guidelines for students
• Safety protocols for labs sessions and personal protective equipment

Your cooperation with our USAHS safety protocols, which follow all CDC guidelines for universities and healthcare facilities, is required to support a safe and healthy learning environment for all.  We look forward to seeing you on campus soon.  If you have any questions about the Reentry plan, campus access requirements, health screenings, class schedules, etc., call 1-855-GOUSAHS (1-855-468-7247) or send an email to [email protected].

June 30, 2020

Final steps are being taken to ready our campuses for students who will be returning in Phase One of the Reentry Return to Campus Plan. Attached is a one-page reference summarizing the plan that includes links to required training, documents, class schedules and other important information. As a reminder, immediate actions you must take to prepare yourself for a safe and organized return to campus are outlined below.

Before You Arrive on Campus

Complete required COVID-19 Safety Training.

This required online training takes approximately 20 minutes and covers the following topics:

• COVID-19 Risk and Symptoms
• COVID-19 Prevention
• Personal Protective Equipment
• Health Screening Requirements and USAHS Protocols

Sign the acknowledgement confirming that you have completed the training and that you understand the safety and health protocols and the campus environment to which you are returning. You will not be permitted to enter campus until you have completed this training.

Begin recommended daily online health self-screening.

Access the online form to complete your personal health screening which involves taking your temperature daily and answering questions related to COVID-19 symptoms and any potential exposure you may have had to the virus. Completing the personal health screening each day prior to returning to campus is strongly recommended and will be required daily for the duration of the Summer Term or until you are no longer regularly coming to campus.

Bring a mask which you must wear to enter campus.

Bring a cloth, procedural, surgical, KN95, or N95 mask which you will be required to wear to enter campus.  A PPE package for lab use, including two reusable cloth procedural masks, gloves and a reusable face shield, will be provided by the University and distributed in your first lab session.  Additional disposable gloves and masks also will be available for subsequent lab sessions.

Practice safe and healthy behaviors.

Please consider the activities you are currently involved in as you prepare to return to campus, e.g. outings, restaurants, gyms, events.  Each of us is responsible for our own actions which bear directly on the health and welfare of the USAHS community.  Your conscientious behavior before you arrive on campus, when you are on campus or outside of campus is essential to protecting each other so that the campus can remain open.  We need your help.

Each Day on Campus

Complete your required daily health screening.

Complete your personal health screening using the online form prior to arriving on campus.  If you are cleared to enter campus, you will receive a confirmation code that will be scanned at the campus entrance.  If you are not cleared to enter campus, stay at home and contact your faculty advisor as well as [email protected] for further instructions.

Complete your daily temperature check at the campus entrance.

A hands-free temperature scan located at the campus entrance will provide confirmation that you are cleared to enter campus that day based on your temperature reading. Please review the instructions for using the temperature scan, which are included in the COVID-19 Safety Training materials, prior to your campus arrival.

Arrive to campus 15-30 minutes before your class starts.

Start times for classes will be staggered to allow safe entry to campus without crowding. You should arrive to campus 15-30 minutes prior to the start time for your lab session.

Go directly to your classroom.

Once you are approved to enter campus, go directly to your assigned classroom.  You will find signage directing the flow of people through the campus buildings and to support social distancing.

Stay in your assigned classroom.

Students in each subsection will remain in their assigned classroom for the time they are on campus to avoid any potential risks associated with intermingling.  You also will work with the same lab partner for the duration of the term.

Wear required PPE at all times.

All students must wear masks and appropriate PPE at all times. The CDC recommends this, and we will be following all CDC guidelines for universities and healthcare facilities. Not following safety protocols will result in disciplinary action and places the University at risk for temporary closure. A reference regarding safety protocols for lab sessions and PPE is attached and posted to the Reference Documents section of the Reentry website.

Maintain social distancing while in your lab sessions.

Maintain proper social distancing during your instructional time on campus and wear your required PPE at all times.

Remember…

• Common areas, including the library, lounge areas and study rooms, will be closed.
• Food service, including meal deliveries, will not be available on campus, nor will vending machines and refrigerators be operational per health and safety guidelines. Please bring your own non-perishable lunch, snacks, and beverages to enjoy during breaks in your assigned classroom.
• No gatherings will be permitted on campus or on campus grounds outside of scheduled labs.
• Visitors will not be allowed on campus.
• Lockers will not be available.

Questions and More Information

Please save the attached one-page guide as a reference for returning to campus this summer.  This guide also is available in the Reference Documents section of the Reentry website.   In addition, answers to some frequently asked questions related to cleaning and disinfecting procedures as well as actions to be taken in case of a confirmed COVID-19 case on campus are provided below:

What are the campus cleaning and disinfection protocols?

To promote the health and safety of all students, faculty, and staff, facilities will be regularly cleaned and disinfected in accordance with CDC guidelines to prevent the spread of infectious disease. These guidelines outline the cleaning, processes, protocols by space, and frequency by space for continuous cleaning throughout each day and thorough cleaning at the conclusion of each day. These guidelines comply with the CDC recommendations and can be referenced in the Reference Documents section of the Reentry website, COVID-19 Cleaning and Disinfection Protocols.

How will positive cases of COVID-19 be handled on campus?

Despite all precautionary measures, there is always a risk of exposure to communicable diseases. Should an individual contract COVID-19 and potentially expose our campus, we will immediately and confidentially inform any impacted individuals of the possible exposure. Individuals who have been potentially exposed will be sent home and asked to quarantine for 14 days. In compliance with CDC requirements, a thorough cleaning of the space used by the infected individual will be conducted after the area has been closed off for at least 24 hours. The area may remain closed for several days based on the circumstance.

What is the campus response to positive COVID-19 tests or transmission?

In the event of a single or multiple confirmed COVID-19 cases on campus, the University will employ a set of safety assessment protocols to determine next steps for the campus.  Responses may include enhanced or targeted deep cleaning of specific rooms, floors or buildings on campus.  In the case of more widespread infection, the University may close some or all of a campus for a period of several days up to several weeks, or temporarily suspend on-campus activities.  The University will follow CDC, state and local guidance, as well as coordinate with local public health authorities as appropriate to validate that all necessary measures have been taken based on the circumstances. Refer to the Pandemic Communicable Diseases Policy & Reporting Process located in the Reference Documents section of the Reentry website.

What should an individual who receives a COVID-19 positive or presumed diagnosis do to return to campus?

• An individual who receives a positive or presumed COVID-19 diagnosis requires a 14-day quarantine period and a note from a certified health care provider prior to returning to campus. In addition, the individual must be symptom-free for three days (72 hours) after recovery from COVID-19.  This includes resolution of a fever without the use of fever-reducing medications, improvement in respiratory symptoms (e.g., cough, shortness of breath), and the passage of at least 10 days since symptoms first appeared.
• The second option for an individual would be to obtain two negative COVID tests collected more than 24 hours apart prior to returning to campus, provided there is no fever without the use of fever-reducing medications, and improvement of symptoms over the previous three days (72 hours).

Additional details can be found in the document titled “Reentry Guidelines for Students” located in the Reference Documents section of the Reentry website.

If you have any questions about the Reentry plan, campus access requirements, health screenings, class schedules, etc., please call 1-855-GOUSAHS (1-855-468-7247), send an email to [email protected] or contact your faculty advisor.

REENTRY GUIDELINES – STUDENTS 

June 24, 2020

As we prepare for the return to campus in Phase One of Reentry beginning July 6, we continue to closely monitor CDC and local health department guidelines along with regulatory requirements from federal and local authorities to align our Reentry plans with all recommendations for providing a safe and healthy learning environment for all.

The University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences Reentry Approach

Why are we returning to campus?

Our motivation for returning to campus is rooted in a single priority – to keep you on track toward completing your degree without delay by providing you the skills you need to advance in the curriculum, be prepared for your clinical rotations, meet accreditation requirements and graduate on time.

Does our approach comply with Center for Disease Control requirements?

After careful and thoughtful analysis, we believe the phased approach we are taking allows us to focus on your attaining required skills while complying with all CDC guidelines and federal and local regulations.

What will the Reentry Experience be like?

We all miss the connectivity that being on campus brings for students, faculty and staff alike.  We are confident that one day, we will return to a vibrant and thriving campus environment.  Until that day our campuses will only provide focused lab activities required to gain the necessary skills to advance.  The Summer 2020 semester will be structured as follows:

• Week of July 6^th: Spring 2020 on-campus lab instruction and assessments not completed prior to July will be completed this week. Students will come to campus for 1-3 days depending on their term.
• Week of July 13^th: Summer 2020 coursework will begin. Each returning term will come to campus for a given, recurring day each week (e.g., PT Res Term 1 students will be on campus on Mondays, PT Res Term 2 students will be on campus on Tuesdays, etc.).
• Assessments: Largely take place during the final two weeks of the term: weeks of August 10th and 17^th.
• Remedial Coursework: If needed, will be offered the week of August 17^th.
• Nursing Intensives: Students will come to campus for one weekend: August 7th – 9th on the St. Augustine campus, and August 14-16th on the Austin campus.

Before You Arrive on Campus

What are the requirements to enter campus?

• COVID-19 Safety Training
• Daily Health Screening (Health screening prior to returning to campus is helpful to gauge your preparation but does not need to be submitted.)
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to arrive on campus

What is the required COVID-19 Safety Training?

COVID-19 Safety Training is intended to support safe and healthy on-campus practices.  This required training is online and includes short video modules presented in MS Forms, the same application that will be used to complete the required daily health screening.  Safety Training takes approximately 20 minutes and covers the following topics:

• COVID-19 Risk and Symptoms
• COVID-19 Prevention
• Personal Protective Equipment
• Health Screening Requirements and USAHS Protocols

Upon completion of the training, you will be asked to electronically sign an acknowledgement confirming that you have completed all the modules and that you understand the safety and health protocols and the campus environment to which you are returning. You will not be allowed to enter campus until you have completed this training.

How do I complete my Personal Health Screening?

A mobile-friendly online form will be used for personal health screening which involves taking your temperature daily and answering questions related to COVID-19 symptoms and any potential exposure you may have had to the virus. Completing the personal health screening each day prior to your first day of return to campus is strongly recommended. After your first day of return to campus, the personal health screening will be required daily for the duration of the Summer Term or until you are no longer regularly coming to campus. COVID-19 diagnostic testing is not required for returning to campus.

Do I need to bring PPE to enter campus?

A mask will be required to enter campus. Be sure to bring a cloth, procedural, surgical, KN95, or N95 mask with you.  A PPE package for lab use, including two reusable cloth procedural masks, gloves and a reusable face shield, will be provided by the University and distributed in your first lab session.  Additional disposable gloves and masks also will be available for subsequent lab sessions.

What is expected of me off campus to keep my colleagues and the campus safe?

Each of us is responsible for our own actions which bear directly on the health and welfare of the USAHS community.  Please consider the activities you are currently involved in as you prepare to return to campus, e.g. outings, restaurants, gyms, events.  We depend on each other for our individual and collective health and safety.  Your conscientious behavior before you arrive on campus, when you are on campus or outside of campus is essential to protecting each other so that the campus can remain open.  We need your help.

Each Day on Campus

What is the Required Daily Temperature Check?

In addition to your health screening, a daily on-campus temperature check will be required of those coming to campus. A hands-free temperature scan will be installed at each campus entry and will provide confirmation that you are cleared to enter campus that day, based on your temperature reading. Please review the instructions for using the temperature scan, which are included in the COVID-19 Safety Training materials, prior to your campus arrival.

How will I know where to go once I enter campus?

Upon being approved to enter campus, you must go directly to your assigned classroom.  You will find signage to maintain appropriate flow of people through the campus and to support social distancing.  Based on current safety practices, signs will provide information regarding bathrooms and exit processes.

How long are students on campus?

Students will be on campus only for the duration of their lab classes.  No other activities, meetings or gatherings will be permitted.

Will students be required to wear PPE while on campus?

All students must wear masks and appropriate PPE at all times. The CDC recommends this, and we will be following all CDC guidelines for universities and healthcare facilities. The proper use of PPE provides a safe environment for you to learn and work with each other. Not following safety protocols will result in disciplinary action. As future health care providers you will be wearing PPE to treat a variety of ill patients.

What protective equipment is available and necessary?

Appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) must be worn at all times when in labs or on campus.  Cloth masks must be worn when arriving and during your stay on campus.  Special protective equipment will be used in labs including surgical masks, gloves and face shields.

What are the implications for students who do not follow safety protocols?

Everyone’s collaboration is required to protect each other and our campus.  Those students who are unwilling to follow safety protocol will be subject to disciplinary action as found in the Student Handbook.  This behavior depicts the professionalism and care you exercise as future health care practitioners.

Will I be able to meet with my cohort and friends on campus?

No gatherings will be permitted on campus or on campus grounds outside of scheduled labs. Also, visitors will not be allowed on campus at this time.

Will I be able to store my belongings in the lockers?

Lockers will not be available. Be sure to bring a bag or backpack with you to accommodate your belongings.

Will food and beverages be available on campus? 

Food service, including meal deliveries, will not be available on campus, nor will vending machines and refrigerators be operational per health and safety guidelines. Please bring your own non-perishable lunch, snacks, and beverages to enjoy during breaks in your assigned classroom. Personal-sized insulated lunch bags with frozen cold packs or ice are recommended to keep items cool.

The Academic Experience While on Campus

When will students be allowed on campus each day?

Start times for classes will be staggered to allow safe entry to campus without crowding. You will be asked to enter 15-30 minutes prior to your class and go directly to your assigned classroom. Only nine students are scheduled in each class to prevent crowding while entering campus and to meet social distancing requirements.

What is the Lab Class Experience going to be?

To support your health and safety and to comply with guidelines issued by the CDC, state regulators and local authorities, the lab classes will be different from what you may have previously experienced:

• Restricted to nine students per section plus one faculty to adhere to the maximum gathering guidance.
• Six feet of separation for lab workstations and equipment.
• Fixed classroom assignments so that students in each subsection will remain in the same classroom for the time they are on campus to avoid any potential risks associated with intermingling.

What is my exact lab schedule?

Detailed schedules for labs being offered during the Summer Term are posted to the Reentry website.  Minor changes in the schedules may have been made by your faculty since they were initially posted. Current schedules can be downloaded and printed for your reference.

Will all classrooms be open?

Specific classrooms will be open only for skills-based instruction during Phase One of Reentry.  Non-lab work associated with the courses on your Summer Term schedule will continue virtually.

Will I be able to study on campus?

No. As previously communicated, common areas, including the library, lounge areas and study rooms, will remain closed until larger group gatherings are deemed safe per health and safety guidelines.

Implications of Illness or COVID-19 Positive Testing

What happens if I don’t pass the Required Temperature Check or Daily Health Screening?

If you are not approved to enter campus based on your required temperature check or daily health screening, you must stay home and contact your faculty advisor as well as [email protected] for further instructions.  If you are not feeling well, please visit the CDC’s webpage on “What to do if You are Sick” for guidance.  Also consult with your health care provider and follow all medical advice.  You must be symptom-free for 72 hours before you will be approved to enter campus.

What happens if I test positive for COVID-19?

• A positive COVID-19 diagnosis requires a 14-day quarantine period and a note from your health care provider that you are fit to return to campus.
• In addition, you must be symptom-free for three days (72 hours) after recovery from COVID-19.  This includes resolution of a fever without the use of fever-reducing medications, improvement in respiratory symptoms (e.g., cough, shortness of breath), and the passage of at least 10 days since symptoms first appeared.

What happens if someone who has been on campus tests positive?

• Depending on the situation, the University will determine a variety of campus responses such as, but not limited to, closing off areas, pausing activities, conducting deep cleaning and disinfecting, and alerting local health officials.

What other situations will prevent me or others from coming to campus?

You will not be able to enter campus for a duration of 14 days under the following circumstances:

• You are identified by the Department of Health or a certified contact tracer as having had close contact to an individual who is diagnosed or presumed positive with COVID-19
• Upon your return from travel by cruise ship, international travel, or travel to areas designated as “Level 3 Travel Health Notice: Widespread ongoing transmission with restrictions on entry to the US” by the CDC or other areas restricted by local regulations. You must also complete a USAHS Travel History Form.

Accommodations and Concerns

What if I have a medical condition that makes it risky for me to return to campus?

To request a reasonable accommodation, complete the Reasonable Accommodation Request Form available through myUSA, Student Services tab, Disability Services link. Submit the completed form and appropriate documentation to accommo[email protected] by July 1, 2020.  A delay in submitting the request may result in not having approved accommodations prior to the start of class. The Office of Student Affairs will review your request and inform you in writing of the decision. You will be asked to sign a form indicating your agreement to the accommodations being provided and will be responsible for notifying your instructor(s) of the approved accommodations. An accommodation may result in a delay in program progression and a later completion date.

I’m concerned about returning to campus, but don’t have a medical condition that qualifies for an accommodation.  Can I complete the labs virtually?

No.  The remaining skills you need to advance in the curriculum, be prepared for your clinical rotations, meet accreditation requirements and graduate on time will be learned in the on-campus lab setting and cannot be accomplished virtually.

What happens if I choose not to return to campus to complete the required lab work? 

If you are a PT or Nursing student and you choose not to return for the required lab sessions, you will be withdrawn from applicable courses and will repeat them in full in the following trimester per the course withdrawal policy.  In this case, you will incur full tuition charges for repeated courses and should expect a trimester delay in your graduation date. However, you are permitted to request an accommodation. If the accommodation is approved, based on a documented medical necessity, you will receive an incomplete for only the lab-based courses and will make up the work upon return to campus. This option is limited to only those students with documented health-related concerns. Students without an approved accommodation will withdraw from only those courses that require on-campus lab work and complete the fully online courses they are currently taking.  Based on successful completion of online courses, these students will only repeat in the next term those courses requiring lab work.

Questions and Updates

Who do I contact if I have any questions?

If you have any questions about the Reentry plan, campus access requirements, health screenings, class schedules, etc., please call 1-855-GOUSAHS (1-855-468-7247), send an email to [email protected] or contact your faculty advisor.

How will I receive additional information?

Continue to watch your email, the MyUSA portal, the USA.edu website and other communications channels for updates.

June 17, 2020

Dear University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences Students,

Each week brings us closer to welcoming students back to campus in Phase One of Reentry, beginning July 6.  We continue to closely monitor CDC guidelines and evolving regulatory requirements from federal and local authorities.  These changes could result in adjustments to our approach. We are working through complex and thoughtful plans for providing a safe and healthy environment in which to develop the skills necessary for you to graduate and become exceptional clinicians.

Additional details have been decided and are included in this communication.  Please read this document carefully to facilitate your planning and preparations for returning to campus.

Who returns in Phase One?

Phase One is not a return to a fully operational campus.  Only those labs that are necessary to deliver skills required for graduation and to meet outcomes for accreditation requirements will be offered.  Students will only be on campus for the time needed to complete these labs.  Non-lab work associated with your courses will continue virtually.

Phase One includes students who must receive in-person instruction to attain full competency in skills required to graduate, meet accreditation standards, and involve a particular level of psychomotor skill, impact on patient safety, and/or need for specific equipment.

Students returning in Phase One include:

• DPT Resident 
  • Students in terms 2, 3 and 5 will return the week of July 6
  • Students in terms 1, 4 and 6 will return the week of July 13
• DPT Flex
  • Students in term 8 will return the week of July 6
  • Students in terms 1 – 7 and term 10 will return the week of July 13
• Nursing – FNP Students in terms 3 and 5 will return the week indicated by their plan of study.

Detailed class schedules, including days, times and room assignments for each campus can be found on the Reentry webpage.

NEW – We have extended the list of students returning to campus during Phase One to Include OT students who would benefit from reinforced skills prior to starting their clinical experiences.

• OT Resident and Flex – Resident students in term 4 and Flex students in term 7 will be invited to attend a supplemental Summer Skills Reinforcement Session for clinical skills developed in virtual labs prior to beginning field work assignments.

More information about the OT Summer Skills Reinforcement Session will be available soon.

Will OT skills learned in the Summer Term be reinforced on campus?

Yes, OT students will be given the opportunity to reinforce skills learned in the Summer Term upon their return to campus.  As the regulatory environment permits, we expect to offer these specially designed sessions on campus at the start of the Fall Term.  Additional information on these sessions will be provided as the Fall Term approaches.

How do returning students get screened to enter campus?

Recommended First Entry Health Screening Protocol:  Students are strongly encouraged to complete a self-reported health screening assessment for 14 days prior to arriving on campus.  A mobile-friendly online form, available next week, will be provided to you for this screening which involves taking your temperature daily and answering additional questions related to COVID-19 symptoms and any potential for exposure to the virus. Personal health screening is strongly recommended for a period of 14 days prior to your first day on campus. Personal health screening will be required on your first day back to campus and then daily for the duration of the term. COVID-19 diagnostic testing is not required for returning to campus.

Safety Responsibility: Please consider the activities that you are currently undertaking as you prepare yourself to return to campus.  We will be dependent on each other both for our individual and collective health and safety.  Your conscientious behavior within and outside campus is essential to protect each other and ensure that the campus continues to remain open.

Daily Screening Required:  Completion of the health screening will be required each day before you come to campus.  Simply answer the questions included on the online form and you will receive confirmation that you are cleared to enter campus, which you must show at the front desk when you arrive.  You will not be asked to show your personal data, only the confirmation.

Temperature Check Required:  A daily on-campus temperature check will be required of all individuals coming to campus. Hands-free temperature gauges are being installed at each entry point to campus buildings. Simple instructions on how to use them will be distributed prior to your arrival and included in the required training. The gauge will confirm your ability to enter campus on that day.

Symptoms Preventing Campus Access:  Anyone exhibiting the following symptoms or conditions will not be permitted on campus:

• Fever of 100.4 or higher
• Two or more suspected symptoms of COVID-19.  See the CDC website for details.
• International or cruise ship travel occurring within 14 days of your return to campus.  Per CDC guidelines, international and cruise ship travelers should self-isolate for 14 days.
• Recent contact with COVID-19 under-investigation, presumed, or positive cases (including self).

What processes will we follow once we are on campus?

Campuses will not be fully operational.  Only labs will be open for skills-based instruction.   Non-lab work associated with all courses will continue virtually.

COVID-19 Procedural Training:  Everyone returning to campus will be required to complete a series of short online training modules covering topics such as the proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE), hand washing, social distancing, etc.  Upon completion of the training, which will be available next week, you will be asked to electronically sign an acknowledgement form confirming that you have completed all the modules and that you understand the safety and health protocols and the campus environment to which you are returning.

Meetings with Faculty:  In-person meetings with faculty cannot be accommodated outside of assigned classrooms during Phase One of Reentry.  All scheduled meetings with faculty will continue to be held virtually.

Who should I call if I have questions?

If you have any questions about the Reentry plan, campus access requirements, health screenings, class schedules, etc., please call 1-855-GOUSAHS (1-855-468-7247) or send an email to [email protected].  Your question will be routed to the individual who can provide an accurate and prompt response.

Helpful Reminders

Personal Protective Equipment:  You will need to bring a cloth, procedural, surgical, KN95, or N95 mask to enter campus.  A PPE package for lab use, including two cloth reusable procedural masks, gloves and a reusable face shield, will be provided by the University and distributed in your first lab session.  Additional disposable gloves and masks also will be available for subsequent lab sessions.

Facilities:  Per health and safety guidelines, common areas, including the library, lounge areas and study rooms, will remain closed until larger group gatherings are deemed safe.  Based on best safety practices, no gatherings will be allowed on campus outside the class sessions.  Nearby spaces may be open within the community such as parks, outdoor coffee shops and cafes, restaurants, etc. If you chose to visit any of these locations, please adhere to all social distancing and safety requirements.

Lockers:  Lockers will not be available. Be sure to bring a bag or backpack with you to accommodate your belongings. If you have items in a locker left from Spring Term, you will be able to empty it after class beginning on your first day back to campus.

Food and Beverages:  Food service, including meal deliveries, will not be available on campus and vending machines and refrigerators will not be operational per health and safety guidelines. Please plan to bring your own non-perishable food items, snacks, and beverages which you will be able to consume during breaks in your assigned classroom. Personal-sized insulated lunch bags with frozen cold packs or ice are recommended to keep items cool. Informal gatherings before, during or after class will not be permitted based on guidelines.

I hope you are looking forward to returning to campus as much as we are looking forward to having you here.  Thank you for your continued commitment, patience and perseverance as we manage through a safe return to campus.  As additional details of the Reentry plan become available, we will keep you informed with as much advanced notice as possible.  Please continue to watch your email, the MyUSA portal, the USA.edu website and other communications channels for updates.  In the meantime, if you have questions, call 1-855-GOUSAHS (1-855-468-7247), email [email protected], or contact your faculty advisor.

Sincerely,

Brian Goldstein, PhD
Chief Academic Officer
Executive Dean, College of Rehabilitative Sciences
University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences

Dear University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences Students,

We eagerly anticipate our Reentry to campus on July 6 and are looking forward to seeing our campuses come alive once again!  In preparation, we have outlined further details of the Phase One Reentry plan to provide flexibility for your personal planning.

What are our guiding principles for the return to campus?

• Providing students with the skills necessary to graduate, meet accreditation requirements, and become exceptional clinicians is balanced with regulatory restrictions and our ability to provide a safe and secure campus environment for students, faculty and staff.  Our plans will always accommodate local safety and health considerations and remain in line with CDC guidelines.
• The plan is phased as state and city requirements evolve and student outcomes and campus safety are evaluated.  Our Day 1 is still targeted for July 6.
• The plan will be adjusted as required, understanding that flexibility and contingency planning are the keys to long-term success.

How were programs and courses decided?

Our Reentry plan returns students, faculty and staff to campus in phases that are prioritized to deliver skills-based lab experiences to meet graduation and accreditation requirements. Phase One, targeted to begin July 6, includes students at specific junctures in their program where campus-based lab activities are necessary to meet accreditation requirements. These students require in-person instruction to attain full competency in skills that involve a particular level of psychomotor skill, impact on patient safety, and/or need for specific equipment.

Who returns in Phase One?

Students returning in Phase One include:

• DPT Resident
  • Students in terms 2, 3 and 5 will return the week of July 6
  • Students in terms 1, 4 and 6 will return the week of July 13
• DPT Flex
  • Students in term 8 will return the week of July 6
  • Students in terms 1 – 7 and term 10 will return the week of July 13
• Nursing – FNP Students in terms 3 and 5 will return the week indicated by their plan of study.

How do returning students get screened to enter campus?

Required Health Screening Protocol:  Students must complete a self-reported health screening assessment for 14 days prior to arriving on campus.  A mobile/web-based application will be used for this screening which involves taking your temperature daily and answering questions related to COVID-19 symptoms and any potential for exposure to the virus.  Based on the information you provide, the app will confirm your ability to come to campus.  This same screening process will be used daily to ensure the health and safety of those who will be on campus each day.  Anyone exhibiting the following symptoms or conditions will not be allowed on campus:

• Fever of 100.4 or higher
• Two or more suspected symptoms of COVID-19
• Recent international or cruise ship travel
• Recent contact with COVID-19 under-investigation, presumed, or positive cases (including self)

More details on the mobile/web application and instructions for completing the required health screening will be provided.

What safety measures are being taken?

• Limited class sizes: To comply with health and safety guidelines for social distancing, class sizes will be limited, and cohorts will be divided into ‘sections’ that will attend campus at different times, usually the same day each week. DPT Flex and nursing students will attend campus on consecutive days during the weekends their lab classes are scheduled. Specific course schedules, including day and times on campus and room assignments, are being developed and will be distributed as soon as they are available.
• Personal Protective Equipment: You will need to bring a cloth, procedural, surgical, KN95, or N95 mask to enter campus.  Additional PPE for lab use will be provided by the University and distributed in the lab including procedural masks, gloves and face shields. Training for use of these items and instructions for safely maintaining them will be provided prior to the first day of class.
• Facilities: Deep cleaning of classrooms, labs, equipment, and common spaces is being done and will continue uninterrupted. You will notice that chairs, tables, and other equipment in classrooms and hallways has been arranged to ensure social distancing.  In addition, specific doors have been designated as entrances and exits, and hallways and stairs have been marked with directional signage.  Per health and safety guidelines, common areas, including the library, lounge areas and study rooms, will remain closed until group gatherings are deemed safe. Lockers will not be available. Be sure to bring a bag or backpack to accommodate your belongings.

What services are being offered on campus during Phase One?

• Student Services: To safeguard the health and safety of the campus community, only instructors, direct instructional support staff (such as IT), and safety personnel who support facilities operations will report to campus in addition to students.  Student services will continue to be available virtually until safety protocols allow for greater interaction.
• Food and Beverages: Food service will not be available on any campus and vending machines and refrigerators will not be operational per health and safety guidelines. Please plan to bring your own non-perishable food items, snacks, and beverages which you will be able to consume during breaks in your assigned classroom. Informal gatherings before, during or after class will not be permitted based on guidelines.

When will additional Phases be decided?

Our guiding principles will continue to prioritize the skills you need to graduate and meet accreditation requirements while complying with regulatory restrictions to ensure the safety of all who return to campus. Phase One will continue throughout the summer term, and as local health and safety regulations ease, we expect to be able to implement additional phases of the Reentry plan beginning in the fall term.

Thank you for your continued commitment to education and vison of becoming an exceptional practitioner during these historically trying times. We will share specific information classes, schedules, and student processes for Reentry as soon as they are available.  Please watch your email, the MyUSA portal, the USA.edu website and other communications channels for updates.  In the meantime, if you have questions, please contact your faculty advisor.

Sincerely,

Brian Goldstein, PhD
Chief Academic Officer
Executive Dean, College of Rehabilitative Sciences
University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences

Dear University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences Students,

It has been nearly three months since we began our journey addressing the COVID-19 crisis. During that time, we have pivoted to online instruction and made adjustments to our personal lives including wearing masks, washing hands, taking temperatures, and social distancing. Our lives were changed, and we all anticipate a return to “normal”.

Until recently, states and cities where the University operates had not issued guidelines that would allow us to initiate even limited educational activities on our campuses.  Though regulations continue to evolve, we are ready to begin a carefully planned return to campus in accordance with current health and safety guidelines. We are making required accommodations at our facilities – and in instructional scheduling – to safely return you to face-to-face, hands-on instruction. Our Reentry plan will roll out in phases and will be flexible enough to respond to any changes in the regulatory environment.

Our cross-functional return-to-campus team has been working to address academic, legal, regulatory, workforce, facilities, safety, procurement and other issues related to safely returning to all USAHS campus locations.  The scope of this plan is complex — from securing personal protective equipment for students, faculty and staff to scheduling labs that maintain social distancing to comply with CDC requirements and health regulations.

What does Reentry mean for you?

• Gaining Necessary Skills: Our determination to return to campus is focused on providing students the skills necessary to graduate, meet accreditation requirements, and to become exceptional clinicians. This has been carefully balanced with regulatory restrictions and our ability to provide a safe and secure environment for students, faculty and staff.  Reentry plans will always accommodate state safety and health considerations and remain in line with CDC guidelines.  This means some campuses may initiate a return to campus before others and not all students begin activities at the same time.
• Multi-Phased Plan: Only students, faculty, and essential support personnel required for certain lab classes and skills will be permitted on campus during the early phases of the Reentry
  • Phase One (targeted to begin July 6): This phase includes students who must have face-to-face interaction to meet accreditation requirements due to competencies that cannot be adequately met in a virtual environment. Most of the Physical Therapy and some Nursing students fall into this category. Only instructors, direct instructional support staff such as IT, and safety personnel who support facilities operations will report to campus. This minimizes your exposure to people not required to safely deliver your instruction. Student services will continue to be available virtually through Phases One and Two.
  • Phase Two (date TBD): This phase welcomes students who could attain skills virtually but require a certain level of psychomotor skills, access to equipment, and/or group work that is better accomplished on campus. All Physical Therapy, all Occupational Therapy, most Speech-Language Pathology, and some Nursing students are included in this phase.
  • Phase Three (date TBD): This phase includes the return of remaining students who have developed skills and are able to achieve course learning outcomes through virtual instruction. Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy and Speech-Language Pathology students who already attended in Phases One and Two will have added courses and lab practice hours.  Remaining students, which include all Speech-Language Pathology students, will participate.  In-person student services that have been offered virtually will be available on campus and common areas will open under strict restrictions. All post-professional immersion experiences will return to the campus-based delivery model.
  • Phase Four (date TBD): This phase will initiate once health and travel restrictions are eliminated. At this point, all students, faculty and staff will be allowed on campus. External visitors and community partners will be welcomed on campus.
• Facilities: Since fully virtual instruction began, our Facilities team has been deep cleaning classrooms, labs, equipment and common spaces, and preparing for the return to campus. They are arranging chairs, tables, and other equipment in classrooms and hallways to ensure social distancing; designating specific entrances and exit doors; marking hallways and stairs with directional signage; setting cleaning schedules; and increasing hand sanitizer stations.
• Scheduling: On-campus lab sessions focused on skill and competency development will be prioritized for students in all phases. A complete list of labs with specific coursework and learning activities, along with times, days and assigned rooms, will be published soon.
• Communication and Training: As we fully define all elements of Reentry, we will let you know what to expect and what you can do to prepare for your return to campus. Look for informational emails, web-site content, videos and a virtual walk-through of the new campus experience. We will provide information and virtual training related to safety protocols on each campus, such as using required personal protective equipment (PPE), building entry instructions, and social distancing guidelines. You will see signage at each building entrance, throughout the facilities, and across campus to make it easy to navigate and understand new procedures.
• Timing: We continue to monitor changes in federal, state and local regulations.  At this point, the University will be initiating Phase One on July 6 which consists only of the instruction needed to meet those accreditation requirements which cannot be met virtually.

I look forward to seeing our campuses come alive and initiating lab activities in just a few short weeks. If you have additional questions, please reach out to your faculty advisor.

Brian Goldstein, PhD
Chief Academic Officer
Executive Dean, College of Rehabilitative Sciences
University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences