DDS Guidelines for Residential Programs

DDS Guidelines for Residential Programs

The Department of Developmental Services (DDS) is responsible for overseeing the residential programs for developmentally disabled people in Massachusetts. DDS has issued guidelines for caregivers/employees for COVID 19.

The full text of that document is HERE.

There are guidelines for the safety of the clients as well as caregivers.

Because the model of service for MR clients is mainly group homes, there are over 120 group homes in this section of Mass who may send COVID clients to the TDC COVID facility.  

 The first point of contact for a suspected COVID -19 client is the healthcare provider  and the LOCAL BOARD of HEALTH.

Below are the guidelines for reporting :

 From Page 6:

 "Decisions about who had close contact and implementation of legal quarantine are done through the Local Board of Health."

 "...or move to an alternative site is recommended to ensure the safety of the resident."

The TDC COVID facility is such an alternative site. Further research indicates that the Admin Building at the TDC has been selected to be used as the COVID facility.

Some questions about the use of the Admin building :

It has been a while since the final Ferncol Fair, but if memory serves me right that building is carpeted. Is carpet flooring appropriate for a COVID ward? Is carpet easily sanitized?

As an Admin Building, I don't recall many showers or bathrooms, which I think would be necessary in order to care for COVID patients appropriately.

 Here is some information that may be useful for those who care for these COVID patients.

 TDC encompasses Region III/IV  the number to call for PPE -from 7am - 5 pm is 413-750-1400. email REOC34.Manager@mass.gov

Be well.

Julie Farrell