Phase 4 - What Covid-19 Measures have Changed? What Is Still in Place?

England moved into Phase 4 on 19th July. 

Thank you to all my clients over the last few weeks who I have consulted on possible changes. 😀

I am aware that the vaccination programme has greatly weakened the link between infection and hospitalisation and death and that the government has reduced requirements on that basis. However I am also aware that:
- only 52% of the population is vaccinated
- we have the highest rate of infection in the world
- I have Clinically Vulnerable and Extremely Clinically Vulnerable clients that are very concerned for their risk
- there is no evidence that vaccination reduces the risk of disability from Long Covid

Guidance from the government is here. Further guidance support from my Professional Association, the APNT is on Facebook here and on their website here. 

"While England moves to step 4 of Covid-19 restrictions from 19 July that removes the mandatory wearing of face-coverings and social distancing, therapists are reminded that, as they work in a close contact setting, there is a higher risk of viral transmission. Therefore, the APNT does recommend the continued wearing of face-coverings for all clients and therapists and asks that you seriously consider the continued use of type II masks and eye protection as the alternative to a face-covering, particularly when treating the high-risk zone." - APNT. 

Read on for details of what has changed and what has remained unchanged in my infection control measures. 

CHANGED:

1. VENTILATION - I have improved ventilation by fitting a chain to the back door, so I can have it open during treatments (with a curtain arranged to give privacy while allowing air flow) as well as the window.

2. THERAPIST PPE - I will continue to wear a minimum of Type IIR medical mask thoughout the session. However the goggles I was wearing to protect my eyes, I am now only adding if/when my face comes in close proximity to a clients high risk area (ie face and and breathing zone).

4. CONSULTATIONS - I am once again allowing face to face Consultations at the beginning of treatment sessions instead of prior on Zoom or phone. We will sit well apart in the well ventilated space. This is something that everyone I have asked has found welcome - but for anyone who wishes to continue to avoid the higher risk of talking face to face indoors, virtual consultations are still available.

5. MEDICAL CHECKS 🩺 - If you are Extremely Clinically Vulnerable, I suggest you consult with your GP before booking, and give them an opportunity to discuss any concerns they may have with you, but this is no longer required (see also, unchanged medical checks below).

6. CASH 💷 - You are no longer dissuaded from bringing cash, just bring the correct amount please.

7. INTAKE FORMS - These are a little shorter. But still very thorough. 

UNCHANGED:

1. CLIENTS FACE COVERINGS  - Clients are still expected to wear a face covering throughout the session. Everyone I have asked has either been happy or willing to do so. If you are not, particularly if you are exempt, you are welcome to get in touch to discuss it.

2. COVID-19 SCREENING 🌡- For myself, and for clients (online intake forms cover this).

3. MEDICAL CHECKS 🩺 - If you have been hospitalised with Covid-19, or are pregnant, please check with your GP or Medical Specialist that they do not have any concerns about you coming for treatment. 

4. SESSION LENGTH 🕐 - Only 1 hour sessions are currently available.

5. NO WAITING AREA ⌚️ - Clients are asked to arrive on time.

6. ONLINE BOOKINGS 💻 - Clients can schedule their own appointments, make payments, and fill in all necessary forms (apart from those for any new clients) online.

7. HYGIENE 🧼- I keep good hygiene including washing hands immediately before treatment. Clients use the sink in the room to wash hands on arrival and before departure.All couch linens, bolsters, and products are kept in lidded containers to keep absolutely clean and uncontaminated. Surfaces touched by clients are minimised, and a thorough cleaning and sanitising protocol is followed after each client.

My webpage Summary of Covid-19 Safety Procedures for Clients goes through the process from booking, payment, to having a consultation, to the detail of what you need to do on the morning of your treatment, parking arrangements, use of the building and toilets, procedures on arrival, during treatment, and for departure. Clients are required to read and agree to these procedures.

"It was good to be able have a chat at the telephone consultation beforehand and felt reassured about all your detailed, careful and thoughtful arrangements in place with the CV19 regulations. I was a little apprehensive about wearing a mask throughout the massage, but once I settled onto the massage couch quickly becoming relaxed by your gentle massage."
- Barbara Wilson

"You had everything set up beautifully and, although not like pre-lockdown, it all seemed sensible, safe and easy to comply with. For me, the strangest thing was the time at the end – no need to pay (having already paid), and no need to book ahead since this can now be done online. Thank you again – so pleased you are back."
- L.B.

"I felt safe, the premises are immaculate as usual which made me feel very comfortable and welcome. The mask was a disturbance at first but after a few minutes it was not a problem anymore."
- Celine N

If you would like full detailed information, or to see the reasons for the measures, my Risk Assessment is viewable here.