COVID-19 Update March 31, 2020

COVID-19 Update March 31, 2020

Local COVID-19 Cases Increase

Over the weekend, the Puyallup Tribal Council and Dr. Shelton, Puyallup Tribal Health Authority’s clinical director, announced that a local tribal member was diagnosed with COVID-19, as well. To date, 5,299 residents have been tested for COVID-19.

On Monday, March 30, Pierce County reported 35 new cases, bringing its total to 353 cases and six deaths.

Tribal elections postponed to June 6, Aug. 1

Tribal Council has postponed its 2020 primary election to June 6 and the 2020 general election to Aug. 1 due to the public health emergency. Tribal members can expect a letter in the coming days. ​

Read the Tribal Council’s resolution here.

Inslee Announces Enforcement Measures for Stay Home, Stay Healthy order

Businesses, groups and landlords who aren’t complying with Washington state’s Stay Home, Stay Healthy order could face civic or criminal penalties, Gov. Jay Inslee announced on Monday, March 30.

The biggest group of violators right now are non-essential businesses that are still operating, said Washington State Patrol chief John Batiste.

Although tribes are sovereign, the Puyallup Tribal Council has coordinated its COVID-19 response with local, county and state authorities. Council is asking everyone to abide by its requirements and stay at home at this time, except while on essential business, such as grocery store shopping, going to medical appointments or traveling to essential jobs.

Reminder: Your benefits include Teledoc, EAP and a financial advisors

Tribal Council and executive staff are looking at the Tribe’s financial picture from every angle to protect Tribal members and employees. It is wise to prepare for the uncertain times we’re in. Here are some resources to help you:

Premera Blue Cross

Premera’s virtual care benefit (Teladoc) is offered to those covered by the Puyallup Tribe plan at no charge.  Visit the Teladoc website Teladoc.com/premera. Click “set up account” and provide the required information in the “My medical History” tab. You can also call Teladoc at 855-332-4059. After you set up your account, a Teladoc doctor is just a call or click away anytime you need medical care.

MultiCare is also offering free e-visits to anyone who has COVID-10 symptoms through MultiCare Virtual Care (use promo code “COVID19” at the payment page).

Also remember that you can call Premera’s 24 hour nurse line at 800-841-8343.

Wellspring EAP

Take care of your emotional health. Besides taking care of our physical environment, we also should be maintaining our emotional and mental well-being. Employees can contact Wellspring Family Services, our Employee Assistance Provider. Wellspring has counselors available 24/7 and can provide tips and help develop a plan for self-care.​ You can reach Wellspring at 800-553-7798.

My Secure Advantage (MSA)

Have your finances been impacted by COVID-19? Here’s where to get financial help. Whether it’s you or someone in your household who is dealing with limited work hours or a lay-off, you can seek help from a Money Coach. Together, you can talk about ways to get through this financial crisis with as minimal impact as possible to your bottom line. Call 888-724-2326 today and talk to a Money Coach about how you can thrive with a reduced income.