In the spirit of slowing the spread of novel coronavirus (COVID-19) and keeping a healthy workforce, we are implementing some short-term changes to our operations.

• Meetings: All non-essential King County in-person large group employee meetings and gatherings will be canceled through March 2020. Please work with your supervisors and use good judgment about which meetings are essential and limit the number of people present where possible. Conduct essential and non-essential meetings using Skype or teleconference where practical.
• Telecommute: Employees whose work can be performed through telecommuting are encouraged to do so with the approval of their supervisors. Please find telecommute resources here and make sure you submit a signed telecommute agreement to your supervisor.

We all have an important role to play in preventing the spread of this virus. Follow personal hygiene and health guidance at Public Health’s website www.kingcounty.gov/COVID and blog www.publichealthinsider.com. Please stay home if you are sick, and let your supervisor know if you have concerns about your paid leave balances.  Supervisors will work with their Human Resource Managers (employees only) to address these concerns.

Take advantage of telehealth: Most employees and family members enrolled in a King County medical plan have convenient, round-the-clock access to health care through telehealth, helping relieve the burden on medical facilities. New in 2020, Regence members can use Doctor on Demand™. Kaiser members can use CareChat. With telehealth, you can use your smartphone, tablet, or personal computer to access care—without the hassle of an appointment or waiting room. For details about the different ways you can access care, go to your medical plan page:

• SmartCare Connect(Kaiser Permanente)
• KingCare Select(Regence BlueShield)—see your network page
• KingCare(Regence BlueShield)

King County provides two free services to employees that offer support and advice: the Employee Assistance Program and Making Life Easier. Both resources are free and confidential.

Thank you for your ongoing service during this challenging time. Particular thanks to our Public Health staff who are working tirelessly to respond to COVID-19.