As restrictions around the country continue to ease thanks to the amazing response of Australians to the threat of COVID-19, the one question we keep getting asked is ‘when will we be able to train with you again?’

Like you, we love to scan – teaching ultrasound is in our blood. And never has ultrasound – for all it’s glorious silence – had such a loud impact at the point of care, or been more important than it is today.

So, while no one – particularly health professionals like us – want restrictions eased too early, we’re excited to see signs that mean we’ll soon be able to connect in person and resume (appropriately distanced) face-to-face training.

Just as we closed early to do our part and provide certainty so you had one less complication to navigate, we’re also taking a proactive and conservative approach to our reopening.

Here’s what we’re doing.

We’re planning for 13 July

From 1 June, COVID-19 restrictions are being eased across Australia, with Victoria taking a conservative approach subject to the most up-to-date advice of the Chief Health Officer. Under the current (31 May) Extension of Declaration of State of Emergency, the Government of Victoria has indicated that further easing of restrictions is planned from 22 June onward.

In light of the State Government’s approach and the continued unpredictability of the situation, we will continue to suspend our operations for an additional two weeks beyond the 22 June timeline. On advice, this will provide us with more certainty regarding any potential for further outbreaks of COVID-19 and potentially reduce the impact this may have on you.

However, we do hope that our current infection trajectory is maintained, and on this timeframe anticipate that our scheduled courses will resume from 13 July.

You can expect changes when you visit

In our isolation bubble we’ve put in place a range of measures to help keep our team, our patient models and you safe. Inevitably, things will look different at our learning HQ. But these simply ensure the continuation of our focus on creating a safe and comfortable learning environment in this new age.

When you get to our learning HQ there will be:

• Controlled entry (including temperature checks) with contact tracing for all visitors.
• Reduced numbers of people allowed in our learning HQ at one time to support the requirements around physical distancing – both in classrooms and scan bays.
• Increased hygiene options available for all visitors.
• PPE utilisation.
• Increased environmental cleaning.

In addition to physical changes, we’ll be asking for behavioural changes too. If you or any of our team are (or are suspected as) unwell, the requirement for self-isolation and reporting will be mandatory. If you suspect someone is unwell, we’ll be encouraging peer support and compassionate communication.

But never fear, if you started a course and need to miss some due to COVID-19 our ‘Zedu Redo’ policy applies, so you can resit the same course for free within 12 months of the start date of your original booking.

While physical distancing presents challenges, we’ll do everything we can to promote safety and comfort.

You can book with confidence

Uncertainty, unprecedented, unsettling. With travel, business and leave restrictions still in place we don’t want to be the reason for another COVID-19 related ‘un’.

Here’s what we’re planning to do.

For courses running before 31 December 2020, if your training plans are disrupted due to COVID-19 restrictions we’ll waive any course transfer charges associated with a change of date. If you need to cancel your course due to COVID-19, we’ll do our best to accommodate your needs. Similarly, if we are required to postpone due to COVID-19, we’ll transfer you to an alternative date of your choosing, provide a credit to be applied to another course/service for another time or a refund (excluding bank charges).

We want you to know that we’ve got you covered.

If you are champing at the bit to get ultrasound training, we recommend you book early to avoid disappointment. Course capacity will be reduced to meet social distancing protocols. Customers that have already been impacted by course postponement will be given priority access to current and any new course dates.

We’re scanning the horizon

 

Australians have done an amazing job of flattening the curve, and we’re optimistic that we’re on a sustainable path to manage COVID-19.

We’re keeping our eyes and ears open, scanning the horizon to make sure we are up to date with the latest medical advice to ensure we can continue to bring you world-leading ultrasound education.

We look forward to confidently welcoming you back to our (reconfigured) Melbourne learning HQ from 13 July, so that you can go forward with ultrasound to be the difference for your patients.

See you soon

Suean and Mike

P.S. both of us would like to extend a heartfelt thank-you to everyone from around the world that have sent messages of support and encouragement. We’ve been humbled by the many offers of assistance, which has kept our fires for education burning. We hope that someday soon we can repay you all by getting together in person to celebrate.