CMS has again updated the Toolkit on State Actions to Mitigate COVID-19 Prevalence in Nursing Homes … Version 3. This latest update (June 15, 2020) follows the original posted on May 13, 2020 with the second version on June 3, 2020. This is a 134-page toolkit; the original version was 74 … Read More
On-demand webinar: Navigating the PBJ chaos
Changes implemented during the COVID-19 public health emergency have impacted PBJ reporting – from the May 15 deadline waiver to the public publishing of average daily staffing totals. These changes have led to confusion across the skilled nursing industry, with many wondering: Will I eventually need to submit Jan 1-Mar … Read More
CDC releases consolidated COVID-19 testing recommendations
On Saturday, June 13, 2020, CDC “released consolidated recommendations for COVID-19 testing, including interim testing guidelines for nursing home residents and healthcare personnel, as well as testing strategy options for high-density critical infrastructure workplaces after a COVID-19 case is identified. These recommendations compile and update previous testing guidance. The consolidated … Read More
GAO report: Infection control deficiencies were widespread and persistent in NHs prior to COVID-19 pandemic
In a May 20, 2020 letter to Congress, specifically to Senator Ron Wyden, the ranking member of the Finance Committee, the Government Accountability Office responded to a request “to examine CMS’s oversight of infection prevention and control protocols and the adequacy of emergency preparedness standards for emerging infectious diseases in … Read More
FDA, CMS, CDC and OIG COVID-19 updates for 1st 2 weeks of June 2020
CDC updated the following COVID-19 guidance during the 1st two (2) weeks of June: Using Telehealth to Expand Access to Essential Health Services during the COVID-19 Pandemic Updated Clinical Questions about COVID-19: Questions and Answers NHSN LTCF Guide to Using the COVID-19 Module The OIG (Office of Inspector General) posted … Read More