TBMC’S COVID-19 OFFICE POLICY, PROCEDURES & PRECAUTIONS
(From pgs. 3 & 4 in TBMC’s Welcome Packet)

Covid-19 Policy, Procedures & Precautions: Covid-19 has changed so much about our world and the way we interact with one another. Like so many others, we are very much lookng forward to the time we no longer have to adhere to the following; however, until that time, TBMC is implementing a policy and procedures that outline the conditions under which we will hold in person sessions and the precautions we take to enhance everyone’s safety.

Covid-19 Policy for Determining In Person vs. Virtual Sessions:
Using the NY Times 2021 Interactive Covid Cases Tracker**, each therapist will track the 14 day positivity rate for covid- 19 infections occurring in their County of residence and TBMC will do the same for Howard County. If both positivity rates are 5% or under, at the therapist’s discretion, in person sessions can occur, under the procedures outlined below. If positivity rates in one or both counties are over 5%, virtual sessions will remain in place.

**Google Search Example: NY Times Covid Tracker for Howard County MD
FYI: https://publichealth.jhu.edu/2020/covid-19-testing-understanding-the-percent-positive

Covid-19 Procedures for In Person Sessions:
Prior to any In Person Sessions: Therapists will review the Informed Consent for In Person Services with clients, answering any questions they may have. After reviewing, clients will initial as well as sign as indicated by the form. Therapists will also ensure their client(s) have received a copy of TBMC’s Covid Office Safety Precautions. Prior to any in person sessions, therapists will make a copy of their client’s proof of vaccination card, which is Protected Health Information and will be treated as such via HIPPA regulations.

Office Safety Precautions to Reduce Covid Exposure for In Person Sessions:

  • Only vaccinated TBMC staff & clients are permitted inside the office.

  • Office seating in therapy rooms have been arranged for appropriate physical distancing.

  • Masks are worn at all times.

  • Physical distancing is maintained at all times.

  • Restroom soap dispensers are maintained and everyone is encouraged to wash their hands.

  • Hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol is available upon entry and in all therapy rooms.

  • To minimize the number of people crossing paths with one another, appointments are scheduled at specific intervals.

  • All clients are asked to wait in their cars or outside until they receive a text saying it’s okay to enter the office.

  • Commonly touched areas (e.g., front door’s keypad) are thoroughly sanitized after each use.

  • Physical contact is not permitted.

  • Trash bins are easily accessed and their contents disposed of between clients.

  • Common areas, such as the restroom, are thoroughly disinfected between clients and at the end of each day.