Wellness and Attendance Policy

Summary

Belconnen Psychological Assessments (BPA) is committed to providing a safe, healthy and supportive environment for clients, families, practitioners and visitors. This policy outlines BPA’s expectations regarding attendance when unwell and the circumstances in which appointments may be postponed, rescheduled or conducted by telehealth.

Assessment services are most effective when clients are well enough to participate fully and comfortably. Attending appointments while unwell may affect assessment outcomes, place others at risk of illness, and impact the safe operation of the practice

1. Our commitment

Belconnen Psychological Assessments (BPA) is committed to providing a safe, healthy and supportive environment for clients, families, practitioners and visitors.

To support the wellbeing of everyone attending the practice and the quality of assessment services, we ask clients and families not to attend appointments when unwell.

By postponing appointments when unwell and following reasonable health precautions, you help us maintain a safe and welcoming environment for everyone attending BPA.

2. When to stay home

Please do not attend an appointment if you, your child, or another attendee:

• have cold or flu-like symptoms, including cough, sore throat, fever, runny nose or body aches;
• have a contagious illness such as COVID-19, influenza, gastroenteritis, chickenpox or a similar condition; or
• are feeling too unwell, fatigued or distressed to participate meaningfully in the appointment.

3. Why this matters

Psychological assessments often require concentration, effort, communication and engagement. Illness, fatigue and discomfort can affect participation and may impact the usefulness of assessment findings.

Attending appointments while unwell may also place staff, clients and families at risk of illness.

4. If you become unwell

If you, your child, or another attendee becomes unwell before an appointment, please contact BPA as soon as possible.

Depending on the circumstances, BPA may:

• reschedule the appointment;
• modify appointment arrangements; or
• offer telehealth where clinically appropriate.

Cancellation and rescheduling arrangements are outlined in the BPA Billing & Cancellation Policy.

5. Attending while unwell

If a client or accompanying adult attends an appointment while showing signs of illness, BPA
may:

• request the use of a mask;
• modify appointment arrangements;
• postpone testing activities; or
• reschedule the appointment.

These decisions will be made on a case-by-case basis with consideration of health, safety and the integrity of the assessment process.