Policies that Support and Hinder Families as Partners in Care during COVID-19 Pandemic: Comparative Policy Learning from England, British Columbia, and the Netherlands.

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has taken a devastating toll on long-term care (LTC) residents, families, and staff. In an effort to keep residents safe from COVID-19, public health measures were implemented early in the pandemic to restrict visitation with residents in many countries, with subsequent adjustments made over the course of the pandemic. It is critical to understand the implementation process and how restrictions on visitations have impacted residents, families, and staff. This research note shares a summary of research interviews conducted with key informants in British Columbia (Canada), England (United Kingdom), and The Netherlands on the implementation of visitation programs in the COVID-19 context. It highlights leading practices and key challenges from these jurisdictions.