Helen’s Story

During a weekly COVID-19 check in with a person she supports, Service Coordinator (SC) Helen Stovall and the person discussed that he was still working at his job (grocery store). When the SC talked with him about keeping himself safe while working in the community, the person disclosed that he was not practicing good hand-washing or other protective measures while at work or at home. His Service Coordinator talked with him about the impact of not having proper hygiene and explained to him the seriousness of the virus and the adverse effects that it could have on him, as he is at high risk to contract COVID-19 due to an underlying condition of COPD. The SC also spoke with the person’s residential staff to encourage them to contact his primary care physician to discuss the risks of him working during this time and what measures to take to get him safe. As a result, the doctor provided a note to excuse him from work due to his underlying condition. The person has improved his hygiene practices and remains safe at home, while his job remains secure when he is ready and safe to return to work.