What’s happening: The CDC recently updated what it means to be “up to date” on COVID-19 vaccinations for both residents and health care staff. This...
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What’s new: The CDC has revised the definition for what is considered up to date for the COVID-19 vaccine for both residents and healthcare personnel (HCP) via...
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CMS has updated the MLN Booklet titled Medicare Billing: CMS 1450 & 837I. The updated guidance has added COVID-19 vaccinations to its roster billing options. More...
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Check out the newest #GetVaccinated resources from AHCA/NCAL: a four-part video series designed to support meaningful, effective conversations about vaccines across long term and post-acute care settings. This...
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Check out the newest #GetVaccinated resources from AHCA/NCAL: a four-part video series designed to support meaningful, effective conversations about vaccines across long term and post-acute care...
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Good to know: With the recent updates to the CDC guidance for the COVID-19 vaccine administration, many have asked about what to report to the...
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What’s new: The CDC recently updated its adult and child immunization schedules for the COVID-19 vaccine to align with the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recent recommendations,...
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The latest: On September 30, VDH published a clinician letter and recommendations for healthcare personal (HCP) exposed or infected with COVID-19 or seasonal influenza. The details: The summary of recommendations includes:...
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Important reminder from DSS: Outbreaks of COVID-19 and other respiratory illness should be reported to your licensing representative and VDH within 24 hours of the...
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What’s new: The CDC recently updated its adult and child immunization schedules for the COVID-19 vaccine to align with the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recent...
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The latest: On September 30, VDH published a clinician letter and recommendations for healthcare personal (HCP) exposed or infected with COVID-19 or seasonal influenza. The details:...
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Last week the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) held its quarterly meeting and reviewed COVID-19 vaccines including updates to the vaccine implementation. During the...
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What’s happening: The US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) stopped shipping free COVID-19 tests to skilled nursing facilities and assisted living communities in...
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Compliance Check: A respiratory protection plan isn’t just paperwork. It’s a frontline defense for staff and residents against airborne hazards like COVID-19. AHCA/NCAL, in collaboration...
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Compliance Check: A respiratory protection plan isn’t just paperwork. It’s a frontline defense for staff and residents against airborne hazards like COVID-19. AHCA/NCAL, in collaboration...
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What’s happening: The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) issued a memorandum announcing an immediate suspension, or “stay,” of its COVID-19 recordkeeping and reporting requirements under 29 CFR...
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On March 14, 2025, CMS rescinded QSO-23-03-All – The Importance of Timely Use of COVID-19 Therapeutics. The memo was referenced in Executive Order (EO) 138997- Improving...
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What’s new: The CDC posted an updated ICD-10-CM code files to address revisions to the ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting and other typographical errors....
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As we step into a new year, nursing home providers are presented with an important opportunity to revisit crucial health conversations with residents and their...
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Tis the season! Long term care (LTC) facilities and communities across the country will experience increased resident and family visitation, social engagement, and resident activities with...
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Tis the season! Long term care (LTC) facilities and communities across the country will experience increased resident and family visitation, social engagement, and resident activities...
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December 9: AHCA/NCAL is hosting a free webinar on encouraging vaccinations so you and your residents can risk less and do more. Hear from federal...
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Welcome to Part 3 of the four-part series on navigating vaccine conversations. In this post, we focus on addressing misinformation—one of the most common obstacles...
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New resources: AHCA/NCAL has released new promotional materials to support its #GetVaccinated campaign for the 2024-2025 respiratory virus season and encourage residents, staff, and caregivers...
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Spread the word: Use AHCA/NCAL’s new public service announcement (PSA) video, “Stronger Together” on your facilities closed-circuit television in facilities or on social media to highlight...
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New resource: Use AHCA/NCAL’s new public service announcement (PSA) video, "Stronger Together" on your facilities closed-circuit television in facilities or on social media to highlight...
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Welcome back to AHCA/NCAL’s four-part series on having conversations about vaccines with residents, family members, and staff. In the first post, we explored the Transtheoretical Model...
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What’s new: AHCA/NCAL has developed a four-part series taking a fresh approach for sharing information about the importance and value of vaccination during respiratory virus...
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What’s happening: The CDC has endorsed two new recommendations from the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP). The CDC is recommending a second dose...
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What’s new: A new CMS final rule includes significant changes to the CDC National Healthcare Safety Network (NHSN) reporting requirements for nursing homes. Beginning on...
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What’s new: The NHSN Long Term Care Facility (LTCF) Team shared important information regarding the recent modifications to the LTCF Component. Check out the details...
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In a guest column in McKnight’s Long-Term Care News, AHCA/NCAL Chief Medical Officer Dr. David Gifford emphasizes that now is the time to encourage residents...
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This October: Join HQIN's free virtual Infection Prevention and Control Office Hours, which address topics concerning respiratory virus season. The webinar series focuses on COVID-19...
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ICYMI: NHSN’s simplified LTCF Respiratory Pathogens and Vaccination Module is live. The prior six forms for reporting have decreased to two forms with the new module. Make...
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What you need to know: Two changes are coming to NHSN reporting effective September 30, 2024 (for the September 30, 2024 – October 6, 2024...
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What’s new: CMS has issued Medicare billing guidance and vaccine pricing for the FDA-approved updated COVID-19 vaccines for the 2024–2025 season. About the vaccines: These vaccines target...
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RSV, COVID-19, and flu: These three respiratory viruses have similarities and all can be particularly dangerous for residents with weakened immune systems and other underlying...
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Upcoming events: The CDC has planned webinars to review changes to the Resident Data Collection Form and the definition of "up to date" for...
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RSV poses a threat to long term care (LTC) residents, and its symptoms are similar to those of COVID-19 and influenza (flu). RSV is more common...
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The big picture: Trust, communication, and ease of access increase vaccine program success as the respiratory virus season progresses. Building a successful vaccination program for...
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The CDC is hosting a webinar on September 16 on the latest respiratory virus vaccination recommendations, testing and treatment guidance, and infection prevention strategies....
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ICYMI: Skilled nursing facilities and assisted living communities with an active CLIA waiver are eligible to receive free monthly shipments of over the counter (OTC)...
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What’s happening: A new nationwide initiative from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) aims to raise awareness about the importance of vaccination...
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Now is a good time for long term and post-acute care providers to prepare for the upcoming respiratory virus season. With the triple threat of...
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The FDA has approved updated COVID-19 vaccines for the 2024-2025 respiratory virus season. These vaccines are specifically formulated to target currently circulating variants, which have...
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August is National Immunization Awareness Month (NIAM), the perfect time to plan for your facility's upcoming RSV, COVID-19 and influenza vaccination efforts. Use this month...
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Heading into the fall respiratory virus season, providers can still obtain free COVID-19 tests through the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Abbott...
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Looking ahead: Even though summer is in full swing, it is time to start looking towards fall vaccination efforts. The CDC has already released updated...
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What’s new: As of May 1, 2024, hospitals are no longer required to report Hospital Respiratory Pathogen, Bed Capacity, and Supply Data (commonly referred to...
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What’s happening: The National Healthcare Safety Network (NHSN) will host a webinar on April 2, 2024, at 2:00 pm, covering important updates to the definition...
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What’s changing: NHSN is changing the definition of "up to date" for COVID-19 vaccine reporting in long term care (LTC) beginning Quarter 2 of 2024...
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What’s happening: The CDC endorsed the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices’ (ACIP) recommendation for adults ages 65 years and older to receive an additional updated...
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What’s new: On March 1, 2024, the CDC issued updated guidance for respiratory viruses in community settings. The CDC’s goal is to simplify its recommendations...
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In two previous articles on OSHA recordkeeping, AHCA discussed how the OSHA recordkeeping process and reporting requirements are required components for certain employers. Today’s article...
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The CDC and CMS will host a webinar on January 31, 2024 at 2:00 pm on strategies to increase immunization rates in long term care....
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What’s happening: Beginning the week of January 1-7, 2024, the NHSN Weekly COVID-19 Vaccination Healthcare Personnel (HCP) form will no longer collect information on primary...
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A common misperception is that COVID-19 is no longer a serious virus, and some may even believe that it's less serious than influenza. While the...
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Dates to know: The Provider Relief Fund (PRF) Reporting Period 6 (RP6) opened January 1, 2024 and will remain open through March 31, 2024 at...
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How it works: Through December 31, 2024, anyone uninsured or covered by federal programs, such as Medicare or Medicaid, can receive US Government (USG)-procured, NDA-labeled...
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Worth the read: AHCA/NCAL Chief Medical Officer Dr. David Gifford offered words of advice and encouragement about overcoming vaccine fatigue hesitancy in a column he...
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The CDC issued a Health Advisory for providers about low vaccination rates against influenza, COVID-19, and RSV in all settings and populations. These low vaccination...
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For the first time, vaccines are available to help protect against severe illness caused by all three of the major fall and winter respiratory viruses—flu,...
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New resources: The CDC has released several resources for long term care providers to support their efforts on vaccines, treatment and infection control this respiratory...
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New resources are available on the #GetVaccinated website, including the latest “Frequently Asked Questions," “Vaccine Co-Administration in Long Term Care," and “Offering and Documenting Vaccines...
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What to know: The approval of the new COVID-19 vaccines for 2023-2024 triggered a change in the National Health and Safety Network’s (NHSN) surveillance definition of “up-to-date” on COVID-19...
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The CDC has released a COVID-19 Vaccine Information Statement and RSV Vaccine Information Statement. Vaccine information statements are important tools to use when educating staff and residents about...
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AHCA/NCAL has unveiled a new resource to encourage and support vaccinations in long term care (LTC) facilities this season: #GetVaccinated Reimbursement Guide for Health Care Personnel:...
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Respiratory season can be dangerous for individuals 65 and up and those with underlying health conditions. Elderly individuals residing in long term care facilities, both...
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What’s happening: As the new COVID-19 vaccine is being released, long term care facilities need to be aware of the regulatory requirement to educate and...
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With QSO-23-23-NHs, CMS announced changes to the use of Civil Money Penalty (CMP) Reinvestment Program. Per the memo, CMS will continue to allow applications to...
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For your radar: The approval of the newest COVID-19 vaccines will trigger a change in the National Health and Safety Network’s (NHSN) surveillance definition of...
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It’s time to roll up our sleeves. As we gear up for cold and flu season, the importance of vaccination has never been more evident....
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Earlier this month, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved for emergency use updated COVID-19 vaccines for 2023-2024 manufactured by ModernaTX Inc. and Pfizer Inc....
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Earlier this month, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved for emergency use updated COVID-19 vaccines for 2023-2024 manufactured by ModernaTX Inc. and Pfizer Inc....
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As fall approaches, long term care (LTC) providers should be preparing to vaccinate their residents and staff against common respiratory viruses. There are three vaccines...
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The US Department of Health and Human Services will continue to distribute free monthly shipments of Abbott BinaxNOW over the counter (OTC) COVID-19 test kits...
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What’s happening: The CMS final rule related to COVID-19 testing and staff vaccination published earlier this summer will take effect on August 4, 2023. The...
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A July 26 Medicaid Bulletin explains that DMAS has issued a broadcast notice to local departments of social services that staff should immediately stop calculating...
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Changes in reporting: The CDC’s National Healthcare Safety Network (NHSN) is no longer collecting primary vaccination series data. To reflect this update, as of July...
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What’s happening: Members alerted VHCA-VCAL with concerns about the calculation of patient pay amounts as part of the Medicaid redetermination process underway after the end...
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VDH is sharing the slides, recording, and question/answers from a recent webinar on the latest CDC and CMS COVID-19 guidance for infection prevention and control...
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What’s happening: The National Healthcare Safety Network (NHSN) Vaccination team will be hosting upcoming trainings to review important changes and information regarding reporting person-level resident...
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You are invited to a VDH webinar on June 14 from 12:00-1:00 pm covering the CDC and CMS COVID-19 Updated Guidance for Infection Prevention in...
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What’s new: On May 31, 2023, CMS announced a final rule making three key changes: Removing expired language addressing staff and resident COVID-19 testing requirements issued...
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Earlier this month, AHCA/NCAL released a member update regarding the release of QSO-23-14-ALL which addressed that the COVID-19 Health Care Provider Vaccine Mandate would “soon end.” There is a...
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What’s happening: CMS responded to stakeholder concerns about the uncertain status of certain important Medicare Part B telehealth waivers impacting residents of nursing facilities and...
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Area of focus: Even as the COVID-19 public health emergency has ended and some regulations have been rolled back, facilities still need to educate visitors...
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What’s new: The CDC updated the interim infection prevention and control recommendations for healthcare personnel (HCP) during the COVID-19 pandemic At the bottom of the webpage,...
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What you need to know: After more than three years, the federal public health emergency (PHE) related to the COVID-19 pandemic ends today, May 11,...
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The CDC announced reductions to NHSN reporting pathways which are anticipated to take effect in June 2023. The reductions include elimination of the Therapeutics Pathway...
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The HHS Office of Civil Rights (OCR) exercised HIPAA enforcement discretion throughout the PHE to support the health care sector and the public in responding...
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What’s new: CMS released QSO-23-13-ALL entitled “Guidance for Expiration of the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency (PHE) on May 11, 2023”, which is applicable to Long...
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VDH update: Acting State Health Commissioner Dr. Parham Jaberi issued a COVID-19 Clinician Update dated April 5, 2023. The letter includes updates on COVID-19 reporting...
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Only for individual facilities granted a waiver for the Nurse Aide Training and Competency Evaluation Program (NATCEP) requirements, CMS announced these waivers are extended to...
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What’s new: VDH announced changes to the Virginia Regulations for Disease Reporting and Control (amending 12VAC5-90-80 and 12VAC5-90-90). The changes separate COVID-19 from the category...
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What’s new: The Virginia Long-Term Care Clinician Network (LTC-CN) Monthly Updates will be replacing the VDH Virginia Long-Term Care Facility Task Force Monthly Updates. Read...
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Did your facility feel unprepared to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic? Do you wish you had the opportunity to practice or talk through what you would do in...
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What’s happening: DSS sent a reminder that VDH is offering assisted living facilities and nursing facilities the opportunity to apply for a one-time supply distribution...
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Stay up-to-date: Review the CMS FAQ Long Term Care Facilities (Skilled Nursing Facilities and/or Nursing Facilities): CMS Flexibilities to Fight COVID-19. This document, dated February...
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What’s new: NHSN released an updated version of the Excel Data Tracking Worksheet for facilities reporting COVID-19 vaccination data on health care personnel through the Healthcare Personnel...
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Did you know: As an assisted living employer affected by the pandemic, you may be eligible to receive a tax credit of up to $26,000...
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What’s happening: VDH is offering nursing facilities and assisted living facilities the opportunity to apply for a one-time supply distribution of select infection prevention supplies....
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What’s happening: Effective immediately, assisted living facilities (ALFs) are no longer required to report individual cases of COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2) to their licensing representative as major...
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The CDC released two scientific reports evaluating the effectiveness of the bivalent booster in nursing home residents. These two studies provide evidence that the bivalent...
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Check out a new resource Long COVID: What you Should Know. This three-page handout can be shared with staff, residents, and their families to help...
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The Biden Administration announced plans to end the federal public health emergency (PHE) on May 11, 2023. What it means: The end of the PHE...
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You’re invited: HQI and the American Society of Consultant Pharmacists (ASCP) are hosting an interactive panel discussion with frontline pharmacists and nursing home staff who...
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It is crucial to report current COVID-19 vaccination status to NHSN. The up-to-date definition applies when reporting data through the NSHN COVID-19 Vaccination Modules and...
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What’s happening: US Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Xavier Becerra renewed the declaration that a public health emergency (PHE) exists. The extension was effective...
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What’s new: CMS has published a three-part audio series on COVID-19 vaccines and therapeutics. In these conversations with Dr. Lee Fleisher, the CMS CMO, nursing home leaders...
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New resource: CMS has issued the Third Edition Quality Reporting Program (QRP) COVID-19 Public Reporting (PR) Tip Sheet – SNF QRP. CMS created the tip...
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Training and competency testing staff members’ infection prevention knowledge and skill sets are critical steps toward minimizing the spread of illnesses, including COVID-19. AHCA/NCAL offers...
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What’s new: VDH is partnering with local pharmacies and pharmacists throughout the state to promote community engagement around COVID-19 information, education, and vaccinations. Long term...
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Your help is needed to encourage older adults to receive the updated (bivalent) COVID-19 boosters, especially those living in long term care settings (LTC). The...
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What’s new: The Biden Administration is calling on all long term care facility leaders to step up this winter to protect residents, staff, and visitors...
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The CDC announced it is taking steps to make it easier for long term care facilities (LTCFs) to administer the COVID-19 vaccine to staff and...
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The Biden Administration is calling on all long term care facility leaders to step up this winter to protect residents, staff, and visitors from serious...
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Many staff and residents in assisted living communities have received the COVID-19 vaccine to protect themselves and each other - and put an end to...
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Targeting three key areas can help facilities prevent respiratory outbreaks this winter, according to the US COVID-19 Response Coordinator Ashish Jha, MD, MPH. Ensure residents...
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The definition of up to date was updated in September 2022 to indicate: Individuals are considered up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines during the surveillance period...
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The CDC has updated the guidance on the CDC Flu Web page to reflect new guidance on placement and testing when COVID-19 and influenza viruses are co-circulating....
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In the news: McKnight’s Long-Term Care News reports, "The longer it has been since an individual’s last dose of the original (monovalent) COVID-19 vaccines, the...
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What’s new: CMS is taking steps to improve COVID-19 booster uptake rates in nursing facilities—a priority of the Biden Administration over the next six weeks....
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What’s new: Recent updates to the NHSN application impact the Person-Level COVID-19 Vaccination Forms and the Vaccination Coverage bar chart. Zoom in on the details:...
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Keep up with latest changes in COVID-19 guidance documents by reviewing the October 31 edition of the Timeline for COVID-19 Regulations and Guidance. The most...
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Encourage residents and staff to get a flu shot and updated COVID-19 vaccine You can give flu shots and COVID-19 vaccines at the same time....
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CMS revised its guidance for all provider-types for assessing and maintaining compliance with the COVID-19 staff vaccination regulatory requirements. QSO-23-02-ALL replaces and consolidates information from...
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Since CMS updated the COVID-19-related guidelines for infection prevention and control in late September, DSS issued a memo on October 26 changing the recommendations for...
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COVID-19 therapies are widely available to help treat eligible people who do get sick and are at risk of developing severe disease. Antiviral treatments for...
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What’s happening: US Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra renewed the declaration that a public health emergency (PHE) exists. The renewal was effective October...
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What’s new: CMS has rescinded QSO-22-25-CLIA, which barred the use of SARS-CoV-2 tests outside of the FDA test’s instructions for use. We wrote about the memo...
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Focus in: CDC recommends everyone stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccines for their age group. Since COVID-19 vaccine effectiveness wanes over time, the bivalent...
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While vaccination continues to provide the best protection, COVID-19 therapies are widely available to help treat eligible people who do get sick and are at...
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CMS updated QSO-22-25-CLIA rescinding enforcement discretion for the use of SARS-CoV-2 tests which are not FDA-approved for use among asymptomatic individuals outside of the test’s...
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Recipients of Provider Relief Fund (PRF) payments exceeding $10,000, in the aggregate, between January 1, 2021- June 30, 2021, are required to report in Reporting...
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What’s new: The CDC released updates to three COVID-related guidance documents and CMS updated two QSO memos consistent with the CDC changes: These updates have...
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The Virginia Board of Nursing will not be applying to CMS for a statewide Temporary Nurse Aide (TNA) waiver related to the Nurse Aide Training...
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Check out these great resources to help you promote booster uptake, build trust in vaccines, and more. Use the handout and social media posts in...
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Of note, VDH issued an update on September 16 addressing: the CDC up-to-date definition for COVID-19 vaccination; and FAQs on the bivalent vaccine and up-to-date...
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Join world-renowned medical expert and immunologist Dr. Deborah Birx next week as she discusses Omicron-specific boosters, Evusheld, Paxlovid, and monkeypox to help all our communities...
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Why it matters: Since COVID-19 vaccine effectiveness wanes over time, the bivalent booster can restore protection from the virus and new variants. Use the resources...
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Of note, VDH issued an update on September 16 addressing: the CDC up-to-date definition for COVID-19 vaccination; and FAQs on the bivalent vaccine and up-to-date...
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Contact CMS and CDC to request that they update the guidance on PPE, screening, testing, and quarantine. Use our action center to send a message. ...
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What’s new: The updated Moderna and Pfizer-BioNTech bivalent COVID-19 boosters have been approved. These new bivalent vaccines are designed to fight the Omicron strains of...
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Of note: Approval of a new bivalent COVID-19 vaccines is imminent. This booster will more effectively fight the Omicron strains of COVID-19. It will be...
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VHCA-VCAL is assessing whether Temporary Nurse Aides (TNAs) are having difficulty scheduling their testing and competency evaluations. Please respond to this short survey by COB...
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A CMS blog post details how the agency plans to create a roadmap for the end of the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency (PHE). An agency...
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The CDC and CMS have signaled that they are reviewing the COVID-19 guidance for health care and congregate care settings. Contact the agencies to request...
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HQI has released three new tools in the fight against COVID-19 including videos and a poster to share in high-traffic areas. Check out and share...
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Assisted living facilities (ALFs) now have access to free COVID-19 testing for staff and residents through December 31, 2022. The CDC’s Operation Expanded Testing (OpET) program...
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HQI has released three new tools in the fight against COVID-19 including videos and a poster to share in high-traffic areas in your center. Check...
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Check out the list of reminders on various Provider Relief Funds prepared by AHCA. Reminders cover: Phase 4 and ARP Rural Distributions - Payment Status...
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AHCA/NCAL has updated the 3-Day Stay and Benefit-Period Waivers for Medicare Part A SNF PPS FAQ. The update highlights changes made to the waiver program...
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HQI’s new Vaccine Champion Social Media Package can help your facility boost vaccine confidence by encouraging staff, residents, families and visitors to share their “why”...
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Assisted living facilities (ALFs) now have access to free COVID-19 testing for staff and residents through December 31, 2022. The CDC’s Operation Expanded Testing (OpET) program...
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NHSN has updated the Therapeutics Pathway based on provider feedback on how to make enhancements to this module and provide some reporting relief. What to...
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All facilities reporting data through the National Healthcare Safety Network (NHSN) COVID-19 Vaccination Module must use the updated CDC definition for up-to-date COVID vaccination issued...
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The federal public health emergency (PHE) has been extended through October 15. DMAS issued a Medicaid Bulletin repeating the news along with links to provider...
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The Virginia Board of Nursing (BON) updated its Temporary Nurse Aides to Certified Nurse Aides (TNA2CNA) webpage on June 28 with information that it will again be...
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CMS has released QSO-22-18-ALL to announce it is rescinding the QSO-22-10-ALL memo from January 25, 2022. The January memo noted surveyors performing federal oversight who were not fully vaccinated or who...
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Beginning with the reporting week of June 27, 2022, the National Healthcare Safety Network (NHSN) will update its definition of Up to Date for COVID-19 vaccines. The...
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CMS has released QSO-22-17-ALL, providing new information on how CMS will survey for compliance of the staff vaccination requirement. CMS survey oversight of the staff vaccination...
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Gov. Glenn Youngkin has sent the General Assembly a budget amendment allowing Temporary Nurse Aides (TNAs) who worked under the CMS 1135 federal blanket waiver,...
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As cases of COVID-19 continue to rise throughout the country, it’s important that long term care facilities and communities encourage staff and residents to stay...
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As cases of COVID-19 continue to rise throughout the country, it’s important that long term care facilities and communities encourage staff and residents to stay...
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CMS has provided clarification on the in-service training requirements of §483.95(g)(1) for skilled nursing facilities and nursing facilities; this requires nursing assistants to receive at...
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The National Healthcare Safety Network (NHSN) recently announced various revisions to the COVID-19 module pathways, which are outlined in here. The LTCF COVID-19 Module forms...
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McKnight’s Long-Term Care News reported on a research study that shows "non-pharmaceutical interventions, such as mask wearing and increased testing, better helped skilled nursing providers...
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In a May 24 CDC Health Alert Network advisory, the agency provided an update on the recurrence of COVID-19 or “COVID-19 rebound” after treatment with...
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The CDC has issued a stronger recommendation on COVID-19 boosters stating that individuals who are immunocompromised and those 50 and older should receive a second...
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In the May VDH Long Term Care Facility (LTCF) Task Force Update, the agency reports on the current COVID-19 burden in Virginia. The update also...
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AHCA/NCAL and 15 other health care organizations, sent a joint letter to U.S. Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Xavier Becerra to request an extension of the...
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Skilled nursing facilities that participate in the Skilled Nursing Facility Quality Reporting Program (QRP) must have the weekly health care personnel COVID-19 vaccination summary data entered...
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In April 2022, the National Healthcare Safety Network (NHSN) announced various revisions to the COVID-19 module pathways. The CDC will host webinars in May to...
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In a special video message, AHCA/NCAL’s Chief Medical Officer Dr. David Gifford encourages long term care (LTC) staff to stay up-to-date on their COVID vaccinations...
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Acting State Health Commissioner Dr. Colin Greene issued a COVID-19 Update on April 5. The update addresses: second COVID-19 mRNA vaccine booster doses; COVID-19 lab reporting updates;...
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Visit the VDH COVID-19 Treatment webpage to see patient-facing information about COVID-19 treatments. VDH will soon be uploading Spanish-language versions of the website as well. VDH...
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On April 12, 2022, US Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra extended the COVID-19 public health emergency (PHE) another 90 days. The PHE was...
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In March of 2020, CMS implemented a number of 1135 waivers in response to the pandemic. These blanket waivers were intended to help healthcare providers...
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The release of QSO-22-15-NH & NLTC & LSC has caused concern and confusion as to what it means for the ability of nursing homes to employ...
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CMS has issued QSO-22-15-NH & NLTC & LSC, which provides an update to COVID-19 emergency declaration blanket waivers for specific providers. According to the memo, CMS...
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On April 6, CMS announced it will pay for a second COVID-19 booster shot of either the Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna COVID-19 vaccines without cost sharing,...
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Acting State Health Commissioner Dr. Colin Greene issued a COVID-19 Update on April 5. The update addresses: second COVID-19 mRNA vaccine booster doses; COVID-19 lab reporting updates;...
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In the VDH Long-Term Care Facility Task Force Monthly Update for April, the agency reports that a variance to the Disease Reporting and Control Regulations...
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CMS has released revised interpretive guidance for the COVID-19 vaccine mandate interim final rule (IFR). Three memoranda have been updated, including QSO-22-07-ALL-Revised, QSO-22-09-ALL-Revised, and QSO-22-11-ALL-Revised. The...
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The CDC SNF Vaccination Dashboard displays weekly vaccination data and is updated every Thursday. Data for the week ending March 27 shows that Virginia’s percentage...
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The Health Quality Innovation Network’s (HQIN) Weekly Dose Office Hours webinar series provides current updates on COVID-19 guidance and vaccine information. Sign up for the...
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[caption id="attachment_156266" align="alignright" width="425"] Highlighted text shows where to change the “Data Type” to “Level of Community Transmission”[/caption] CDC has again changed the filters/search abilities...
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VDH asked VHCA-VCAL to relay to members the news that certain lot numbers of Celltrion COVID-19 antigen tests have been recalled. VDH does not know...
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COVID-19 and other unpredictable infectious agents – coupled with fluctuating demand and inconsistent supply – have created the need for skilled nursing and assisted living...
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The Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) announced it is making more than $413 million in Provider Relief Fund (PRF) Phase 4 General Distribution payments...
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The Virginia Department of Labor and Industry (DOLI) issued an announcement that the Virginia Safety and Health Codes Board adopted the final revocation of the...
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Gov. Glenn Youngkin’s Executive Order (EO) 16 expired March 22, 2022. The expiration brings about the end of numerous health care flexibilities that have been...
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AHCA/NCAL sent a letter to US Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Xavier Becerra to request an extension of the public health emergency (PHE) declaration, which...
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The CDC is hosting two upcoming training sessions on the new functionality created by the National Healthcare Safety Network (NHSN) to allow users to manage...
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A review of scientific research by leading academic experts in the field found that community spread was the primary driver of COVID-19 outbreaks in long...
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Acting State Health Commissioner Dr. Colin Greene issued a COVID-19 Update on March 10. The full list of topics addressed in the update address: CDC...
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CMS has issued March 10 revisions to QSO-20-38-NH, the memo on long term care (LTC) facility COVID-19 testing requirements, and to QSO-20-39-NH on visitation. In both memos, CMS...
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The Health Resources and Services Administration’s (HRSA) Provider Relief Fund (PRF) Reporting Portal is open for providers who need to report the use of PRF funds in...
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The recent enactment of the Consolidated Appropriations Act (CAA) includes provisions to extend beneficial telehealth waiver policies advocated by AHCA/NCAL. Under the current COVID-19 telehealth waiver policy,...
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The federal government has launched two new initiatives, “Test to Treat” and “Long-Term Care Pharmacy Program,” to create an allocation of oral antiviral medications for...
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VDH recommends that long term care facility (LTCF) partners review reminders about required COVID-19 reporting. This document, dated March 7, 2022, includes details on required reporting...
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Acting State Health Commissioner Dr. Colin Greene issued a COVID-19 Update on March 10. It covered a range of issues including COVID-19 community levels, therapeutics,...
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VDH recommends that long term care facility (LTCF) partners review reminders about required COVID-19 reporting. This document, dated March 7, 2022, includes details on required...
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The CDC has released a summary document for interim clinical considerations for the use of COVID-19 vaccines that are currently authorized or approved in the United States....
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[caption id="attachment_156132" align="alignright" width="390"] Sample Level of Community Transmission Map[/caption] CMS has issued March 10 revisions to QSO-20-38-NH, the memo on long term care (LTC)...
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The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) has free, one-page forms to record vaccinations and boosters for nursing home residents and staff along with...
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On Friday, February 25, 2022, the CDC announced a change in the metrics used to determine personal and community COVID-19 prevention measures based on community...
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VDH has relayed to VHCA-VCAL information about the shipment of additional COVID-19 testing supplies being sent to nursing and assisted living facilities. This information comes...
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The Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) is making more than $560 million in Provider Relief Fund Phase 4 General Distribution payments this week. Providers...
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Gov. Glenn Youngkin issued Executive Order (EO) 16, which extends the flexibilities provided in his prior EO 11 to help health care providers, including nursing...
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The VDH Healthcare-Associated Infections & Antimicrobial Resistance Team has made available the slides and recording of its February 23 webinar, Highlights from the CDC COVID-19...
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In reporting on the request from the Virginia and West Virginia governors to CMS for a waiver from the COVID-19 vaccine mandate, VHCA-VCAL’s Amy Hewett...
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The Provider Relief Fund (PRF) Reporting Portal opened on January 1, 2022 for Reporting Period 2 (RP2), which is the first time providers will be reporting on...
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Acting State Health Commissioner Dr. Colin Greene issued a COVID-19 Update on February 10. It includes guidelines on the use of rapid COVID-19 tests and...
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The CMS staff vaccination rule requires facilities to take additional precautions for those staff who remain unvaccinated due to a medical/religious exemption or newly hired...
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The Virginia Safety and Health Codes Board met on February 16 pursuant to Gov. Glenn Youngkin’s Executive Order Six to consider whether the Final Permanent...
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VHCA-VCAL recently entered into a contract with the Department of Medical Assistance Services (DMAS) to administer the distribution of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds...
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Acting State Health Commissioner Dr. Colin Greene issued a COVID-19 Update on February 10. It includes guidelines on the use of rapid COVID-19 tests and...
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VDH and DSS have shared the LTCF Request Form for COVID-19 Tests and HPSI has announced that it has contracted with new suppliers to offer...
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The CDC has updated two health care infection prevention and control guidance documents, including: Infection Control: Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) | CDC;...
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CMS has issued memo QSO-22-10-ALL to all State Survey Agency Directors, requiring onsite surveyors - including CLIA and Life Safety surveyors - to be fully vaccinated for COVID-19...
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As part of its commitment to improve transparency and help families and caregivers find the best nursing home care for their loved ones, CMS is...
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VDH has posted a new document to the Virginia COVID-19 Long-Term Care Task Force website with information on COVID-19 point of care antigen testing supply resources for...
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The Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) released an additional $2 billion in Provider Relief Fund (PRF) Phase 4 General Distribution payments to more than...
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On February 1, CMS Administrator Chiquita Brooks-LaSure issued a letter to health care facility administrators on the importance of COVID-19 staff vaccinations. She wrote, “Increasing...
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CMS has published new and updated tools and resources to help you navigate and determine how the vaccine requirements apply. These materials are all available...
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CMS has released an updated version of the Nursing Home Visitation Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs). The updates provide important clarifications, such as: Suggestions on how...
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As part of its #GetVaccinated campaign, AHCA/NCAL is offering new graphics to help promote the importance of booster shots for both LTC residents and staff....
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VHCA-VCAL is hosting a Lunch & Learn on Friday, February 4, 2022 to help members understand the requirements of the CMS COVID-19 vaccine rule and...
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AHCA/NCAL recently made updates to the temporary nurse aide (TNA) and temporary feeding assistant (TFA) free, online training courses. The updates include enhanced security measures within the learning management...
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AHCA/NCAL has been advocating to the federal government to increase the supply of test kits to nursing homes and assisted living communities. The association has...
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CMS has issued memo QSO-22-10-ALL to all State Survey Agencies, requiring onsite surveyors, including CLIA and Life Safety surveyors, to be fully vaccinated for COVID-19 or...
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DMAS issued a Medicaid Bulletin on January 13 on the temporary Virginia public health emergency due to COVID-19. The memo addresses the Medicaid flexibilities related...
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You're invited to participate in a webinar, COVID-19 and Long Term Care Facilities, hosted by the Virginia Infection Prevention Training Center on January 26 at...
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CMS updated its Nursing Home Resource Center with two new informational products. The new items are the Nursing Home Visitation FAQs and an infographic on safely conducting...
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Per QSO 22-07-ALL and the LTC/Skilled Nursing Facility Attachment, which are applicable in Virginia, the implementation phase-in of the COVID-19 vaccine requirement for nursing facilities...
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US Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra renewed the declaration that a public health emergency (PHE) exists. This is effective January 16, 2022 and will...
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The U.S. Supreme Court issued opinions in the CMS and Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) vaccination requirement cases on January 14, 2022. Assisted living...
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In a January 7 memo, DSS shared the COVID-19 Isolation and Quarantine Guidance issued by VDH. Per the guidance, all healthcare staff, including long term...
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You're invited to participate in a webinar, COVID-19 and Long Term Care Facilities, hosted by the Virginia Infection Prevention Training Center on January 26 at...
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In a 5-4 ruling, the Supreme Court upheld the CMS COVID-19 vaccine mandate for staff among Medicare and Medicaid-certified providers and suppliers. The CMS interim...
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In a January 7 memo, DSS shared the COVID-19 Isolation and Quarantine Guidance issued by VDH. Per the guidance, all healthcare staff, including long-term care...
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In light of the current wave of COVID-19 infections and the related increase in hospitalizations, Gov. Ralph Northam issued Executive Order (EO) 84. This limited...
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VDH shared the following with the Virginia Long-Term Care Task Force and VDH Health Districts and asked that it be shared directly with long term...
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VDH has posted a new document to the Virginia COVID-19 Long-Term Care Task Force website with information on COVID-19 point of care antigen testing supply...
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We know that many long term care facilities around the country are struggling with staffing shortages due to the rapid spread of the Omicron variant....
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AHCA/NCAL receives frequent questions regarding National Healthcare Safety Network (NHSN) reporting and common errors encountered by providers. To assist with these questions, the Association has...
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The Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) has provided updated information on the status of Provider Relief Funds (PRF) Phase 4 and American Rescue Plan...
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On December 27, 2021, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) updated its website to withdraw the non-record keeping portions of the healthcare emergency temporary standards (ETS)...
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The CDC announced updates to their guidance on Managing Health Care Personnel (HCP) with COVID-19 Infection or Exposure. This December 23, 2021 guidance provides a...
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On December 23, 2021, CMS issued a new set of Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on the revised nursing home visitation guidelines, outlined in memo “QSO-20-39-NH...
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As a reminder, VDH does not currently have testing supplies available for long term care facilities, however, the agency has continued to work with suppliers...
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VDH has received several questions regarding the CDC general population isolation and quarantine period guidance issued on December 27, 2021. Q. Does the new general...
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Remember to consult the Timeline for COVID-19 Regulations and Guidance--a chronological timeline that compiles explanations and links for regulations, guidelines, and documents issued throughout the...
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To help members comply with the CMS guidance enforcing the interim final rule (IFR) issued November 5, 2021, mandating the COVID-19 vaccine in health care...
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In light of the continued COVID-19 Delta surge and the Omicron variant rapidly spreading across the country, there may be large numbers of staff who...
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A recording of this week’s townhall with Admiral Rachel L. Levine, Assistant Secretary for Health for the US Department of Health and Human Services and...
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We are encouraging all providers to hold COVID-19 vaccine booster clinics. Booster shots increase the protection that an individual has against COVID-19 infection and severe outcomes resulting from infection....
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VDH has distributed the December edition of its Long Term Care Facility (LTCF) Task Force newsletter. It includes updates from the task force’s latest meeting including information...
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The latest clinician letter from State Health Commissioner Dr. M. Norman Oliver includes updates on the preference for mRNA COVID-19 vaccines and required reporting to...
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VHCA-VCAL reached out to VDH after receiving several member inquiries about testing supplies due to the increase in testing for staff now with the Omicron...
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Healthcare providers will receive $163 million in Provider Relief Funds—the first distribution of funds in 2021. The Culpeper Star-Exponent covered the news and Rep. Abigail...
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The Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) announced on December 14 the distribution of approximately $9 billion in Provider Relief Fund (PRF) Phase 4 payments...
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Fluctuating demand for and availability of PPE coupled with the expanded use of PPE as a result of COVID-19 and other infectious agents (e.g., multi-drug...
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The latest clinician letter from State Health Commissioner Dr. M. Norman Oliver includes information on the Omicron variant of COVID-19, a recommendation for booster doses,...
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On December 15, the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals took action which effectively narrows the scope of the District Court’s preliminary injunction order on the...
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According to new data from the CDC and reported in The Hill, "Nursing home residents who received their initial vaccination and a booster dose are...
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Read AHCA/NCAL President and CEO Mark Parkinson’s analysis about the latest data related to the rapid spread of the Omicron variant and it’s potential impact...
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We experience grief in all sorts of ways, and our bodies aren’t hardwired to get over it quickly. Grief is a whole-body issue. It doesn’t...
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Fluctuating demand for PPE along with the expanded use of PPE as a result of COVID-19 and other infectious agents (e.g., multi-drug resistant organisms) coupled...
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The latest clinician letter from State Health Commissioner Dr. M. Norman Oliver includes information on the Omicron variant of COVID-19, a recommendations for booster doses,...
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Making sure residents and staff receive the booster shot against COVID-19 remains the best way to combat the continued spread of the Delta variant and...
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AHCA/NCAL has been partnering with prominent Afghan refugee groups and noting our centers have a variety of positions available. One such group is Welcome.US. Its...
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A December 3 memo from State Health Commissioner Dr. Norm Oliver to clinicians includes an update on: the Omicron variant; a CDC advisory about increasing...
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CMS released QSO-22-04-ALL dated December 2, 2021 advising state survey agencies they should not enforce the interim final rule (IFR) regarding the vaccine mandate or...
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AHCA/NCAL’s new Inventory Supply Management for PPE and COVID-19 POC Testing training is a nine-module case-based learning program that incorporates technical skills with real-life examples...
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AHCA/NCAL has set up an action center with guidance for members to submit their feedback directly to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) on its emergency...
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The Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) began releasing the $7.5 billion American Rescue Plan (ARP) Rural Distribution last week. The agency continues to indicate...
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The United States District Court in the Western District of Louisiana has issued a nationwide injunction preventing the federal government from implementing the CMS vaccine mandate for...
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Making sure residents and staff receive the booster shot against COVID-19 remains the best way to combat the continued spread of the Delta variant and...
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Like so many new focus areas and challenges brought on by the pandemic, the emphasis on personal protective equipment (PPE) has created some unintended consequences...
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AHCA/NCAL is hosting a members-only webinar on November 22 at 4:00 pm on implementing religious and medical exemptions to the CMS COVID-19 staff vaccine mandate....
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The CMS interim final rule (IFR) requiring skilled nursing facilities, nursing facilities, and ICF-IIDs to establish a policy ensuring that all eligible staff be vaccinated...
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Join CMS and the CDC for a National Nursing Home Stakeholder call on Tuesday, November 23, 2021 at 2:00 pm. During the call, subject matter...
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CMS has released changes to the guidance for COVID-19 survey activities and increased oversight in nursing homes in QSO-22-2-ALL. CMS is announcing steps to assist State Survey...
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CMS has updated its guidance for nursing home visitation in a November 12, 2021 revision to QSO-20-39-NH. Visitation is now allowed for all residents at all...
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Neither the CMS vaccine mandate nor the OSHA COVID-19 Vaccination and Testing Emergency Temporary Standard (ETS) are applicable to assisted living facilities. OSHA specifically excluded...
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On November 4, CMS published an interim final rule (IFR) that revises the requirements that most Medicare- and Medicaid-certified providers must meet to participate in...
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On October 25, 2021, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) updated its technical guidance to provide more information on religious exemptions for COVID-19 vaccine mandates....
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CMS has published the much-anticipated rule on COVID-19 vaccinations for health care workers. Long term care facilities and a list of other Medicare and Medicaid-certified...
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Virginia State Health Commissioner Dr. M. Norman Oliver sent an update to healthcare practitioners across the Commonwealth on October 28. This update included information on...
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The Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) provided AHCA/NCAL with guidance on changes of ownership related to obtaining Provider Relief (PRF) and Rural funds. The...
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VHCA-VCAL has heard from several members that orders for antigen testing supplies has become challenging over the past few weeks. We reached out to VDH...
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Following Emergency Use Authorizations from the Food and Drug Administration this week, the CDC provided updated recommendations for COVID-19 booster shots. COVID-19 booster shots are now recommended for the following...
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VDH as posted new and updated resources on its COVID-19 Long Term Care Facilities (LTCFs) Task Force webpage. The new information includes updated guidance for...
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While residents are excited to be more social, providers must screen them carefully to determine fitness levels for each activity. Provider Magazine reports long-term care...
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As a reminder, the deadline to apply for both Phase 4 Provider Relief Funds and American Rescue Plan (ARP) Rural payments is October 26, 2021...
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AHCA/NCAL updated the guidance document titled 3-Day Stay and Benefit Period Waivers for Medicare Part A SNF PPS. The two specific updates include: Updating the extension of the...
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On October 15 the US Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra extended the ongoing COVID-19 public health emergency (PHE) for an additional 90...
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NCAL released a new vaccine toolkit specifically designed for assisted living providers to assist in their efforts to access the vaccine booster. These materials include...
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Lori Porter, co-founder and chief executive officer of the National Association of Health Care Assistants (NAHCA), explains that the nursing home medical director may be...
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VDH is hosting a webinar on October 13 on monoclonal antibody (mAb) therapy for outpatients with mild to moderate COVID-19. mAb therapy can be effective...
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The Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) held the first of four application webinars on the Phase 4 Provider Relief Funds (PRF) and Rural Distributions....
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NCAL released a new vaccine toolkit specifically designed for assisted living (AL) providers to assist in their efforts to access the vaccine booster. These materials...
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VDH updated the previously developed Toolkit for Long-Term Care Facilities (LTCFs) to Sustain COVID-19 Vaccine Access to ensure facilities have the necessary information to access COVID-19...
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Having a comprehensive system for tracking your organization’s vaccination status is critical to your risk management efforts. VHCA-VCAL’s endorsed partner RCM&D has a solution to seamlessly track...
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[caption id="attachment_149075" align="alignright" width="182"] William Haseltine, PhD, president of ACCESS Health International[/caption] Long COVID—symptoms that drag on long after someone gets ill with the coronavirus—has...
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VDH is hosting webinars on October 5 and 13 on (mAb) therapy for outpatients with mild to moderate COVID-19. mAb therapy can be effective at...
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Following the FDA’s recent action that authorized a booster dose of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine for certain high-risk populations and a recommendation from the CDC,...
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The CDC provides information and resources to help long term care (LTC) administrators coordinate access to COVID-19 vaccines onsite or in the local community. LTC...
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The FDA amended the Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) on September 22, 2021 for the Pfizer vaccination to allow the use of a single booster dose...
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The Provider Relief Fund (PRF) Phase 4 and American Rescue Plan (ARP) Rural Distributions application webpage is now live. Applicants will be able to apply for both...
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In a September 21 memo to assisted living facilities, DSS has provided links to the VDH Vaccine Confidence Toolkit, which was made live earlier this...
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Part of President Joe Biden’s COVID-19 Action Plan includes a mandate for COVID-19 vaccines and/or testing for employees working for employers that have 100 or...
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CMS has announced that it will require staff within all Medicare and Medicaid-certified facilities to get COVID-19 vaccines. Make efforts now to vaccinate you and...
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CMS unveiled functionality on Care Compare so users can see staff and resident vaccination rates across different skilled nursing facilities (SNFs). This information was added...
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The Virginia Department of Labor and Industry’s (DOLI) final permanent standard (FPS) is in now in effect. The DOLI Safety and Health Codes Board met...
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The Biden Administration announced it will issue a regulation in early October mandating the COVID-19 vaccine for all Medicare and Medicaid health settings including hospitals,...
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Providers are encouraged to review the AHCA 3-Day Stay and Benefit-Period Waivers for Medicare Part A SNF PPS guidance and FAQs that were updated September 14,...
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CMS updated its MLN Matters article SE20011 titled Medicare FFS Response to the PHE on COVID-19. In the billing guidance CMS did not change the longstanding blanket 3-day qualifying stay...
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On September 10, the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) announced it will be releasing Phase 4 of the Provider Relief Fund (PRF). Phase...
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With influenza (flu) season approaching, there may be compelling logistical advantages to offering patients COVID-19 and flu vaccines on the same day. Per CDC’s clinical considerations...
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On September 10, 2021, the CDC updated its infection prevention and control (IPC) guidance for healthcare settings, Interim Infection Control Recommendations for Healthcare Professionals during...
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CMS updated its previous requirements around testing in a revised version of QSO-20-38-NH dated September 10, 2021. The memo updates the testing summary, including if a facility...
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The Virginia Department of Labor and Industry’s (DOLI) final permanent standard (FPS) is in now in effect. The DOLI Safety and Health Codes Board met...
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DSS issued an update to assisted living facilities on September 7 with reminders about COVID-19-related issues. In the coming weeks, the Division of Licensing Programs...
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With influenza (flu) season approaching, there may be compelling logistical advantages to offering patients COVID-19 and flu vaccines on the same day. Per CDC’s clinical considerations...
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On September 10, 2021, the CDC updated its infection prevention and control (IPC) guidance for healthcare settings. The agency also noted that assisted living communities...
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DSS issued an update to assisted living facilities on September 7 with reminders about COVID-19-related issues. In the coming weeks, the Division of Licensing Programs...
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VDH has developed a staff vaccine confidence tool kit to help educate and encourage more COVID-19 vaccines among workers in long term care facilities (LTCFs)....
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The US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) program that distributes Abbott BinaxNOW tests to skilled nursing facilities and assisted living communities continues, currently with...
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VDH is asking facilities to complete its survey by Friday, September 10, so the agency can gather information to prepare for booster and third dose...
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If a COVID-19 outbreak is reported in a long term care facility (LTCF) at this point in the pandemic response, information is needed on vaccine...
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AHCA/NCAL is sponsoring ads related to the federal vaccine mandate. The ads are part of AHCA/NCAL’s advocacy strategy encouraging the Biden Administration to strengthen the...
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The CDC now officially recommends COVID-19 vaccination for people who are pregnant, breastfeeding, trying to get pregnant now, or might become pregnant in the future. Previously, the...
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Having a comprehensive system for tracking your organization's vaccination status is critical to your risk management efforts. VHCA-VCAL’s endorsed partner RCM&D has a solution to...
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Write and submit an email to CMS on the nursing home staff vaccination mandate by Friday, September 3. As CMS is working on the regulation...
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Your facility may want to consider enrolling as a vaccine provider to order, receive, and administer your own vaccines in-house. Enrolling as a vaccine provider...
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VDH has created a new series of fact sheets to help with vaccine education in long term care facilities (LTCFs). The fact sheets cover: COVID-19...
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VDH is trying to better understand how much additional COVID-19 vaccine will be needed in long term care facilities (LTCFs) once the Advisory Committee on...
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The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) released a letter alerting health care providers to stop using certain N95 respirators manufactured by one specific company, Shanghai Dasheng...
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Virginia State Health Commissioner Dr. M. Norman Oliver sent an update to healthcare practitioners across the Commonwealth on August 26. This update included information on the Pfizer...
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AHCA/NCAL’s expanded version of its popular Infection Preventionist Specialized Training (IPCO Version 2) online training includes COVID-19 bonus content. The training also teaches leaders how to implement and...
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The Virginia Board of Nursing (BON) has updated its Temporary Nurse Aides to Certified Nurse Aides (TNA2CNA) webpage with information that it is again accepting...
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A refundable tax credit program is available for small to midsize companies with less than 500 employees through the American Rescue Plan (ARP) Act. This...
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The September 30 Provider Relief Fund (PRF) deadline for the first reporting period is quickly approaching. The PRF Reporting Portal opened on July 1, 2021,...
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CMS has announced that to boost the administration of COVID-19 vaccines, including second and third doses, in certain settings, vaccine providers can receive additional payments...
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In responding to the announcement from the Biden administration about a vaccine mandate, VHCA-VCAL and members spoke with news outlets noting that there is no...
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Following an announcement from President Biden that all nursing home staff will be required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 in a forthcoming regulation, AHCA/NCAL...
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To anticipate recommendations for additional COVID-19 vaccine series, the National Healthcare Safety Network (NHSN) is updating its COVID-19 vaccine data collection form and table of...
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AHCA/NCAL has prepared a Q&A to provide more information on the plan for booster shots for individuals who have been vaccinated with the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19...
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Effective August 25, VDH has resumed publicly reporting Outbreaks by Selected Exposure Settings. The reporting was suspended when Virginia’s public health emergency ended on July...
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It has been repeatedly stated that the COVID-19 pandemic caused by the SARS Co-V2 virus was a once in a lifetime event. Nothing could be...
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To get proof of your COVID-19 vaccination record, you can save or download your information from this VDH webpage. You will need to enter some identifying...
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To help aid in the process of tracking vaccination rates among residents and staff, LTC Trend Tracker added vaccination data into the COVID-19 dashboard. Using...
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Effective August 12, 2021, CMS will pay to administer additional doses of COVID-19 vaccines consistent with the FDA emergency use authorizations (EUAs) for immunocompromised individuals...
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The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has amended the emergency use authorizations (EUA) for both the Pfizer BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine and the Moderna COVID-19...
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The Delta variant is now the most common variant in the US, making up over 85 percent of cases, and is two to three times...
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A recording of the Lunch & Learn: Roundtable on Staff Vaccine Requirements is now available. A panel of members shared best practices for implementing a...
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AHCA/NCA President & CEO Mark Parkinson sent a message to members explaining what the association knows about the announcement from the Biden Administration about vaccine...
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To get proof of your COVID-19 vaccination record, you can save or download your information from this VDH webpage. You will need to enter some...
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As efforts continue to increase staff vaccination rates in long term care (LTC), AHCA/NCAL has created new materials to help support LTC providers. These include...
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Some VHCA-VCAL members have put requirements in place for COVID-19 vaccinations and others are thinking about how that would work in their facilities. Join us...
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Are you using the newest version of the CMS Entrance Conference Worksheet to prepare for your surveys? CMS updated the checklist with a version dated...
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In a two-part webinar series September 14 and 16, PointClickCare’s Jayne Warwick will review considerations long term care facilities may undertake as plans are revised for...
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Virginia State Health Commissioner Dr. M. Norman Oliver sent an update to healthcare practitioners across the Commonwealth on August 6. This update included information on the Delta...
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While the vaccine and monoclonal antibody treatment are now readily available, the countless losses and pandemic-related stresses often continue for residents and staff as the...
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As our country is once again experiencing an increase in coronavirus cases, it is imperative that we rally together to protect our most vulnerable populations....
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The CDC recently updated its Interim Public Health Recommendations for Fully Vaccinated People with considerations for people who are immunocompromised or at increased risk for severe disease....
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The data entered into the National Healthcare Safety Network (NHSN) provides critical information to public health officials to coordinate and deploy vaccination supply and administer...
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As efforts continue to increase staff vaccination rates in long term care, AHCA/NCAL has created new materials to help support long term care providers. Three...
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The General Assembly convened its second Special Session of the year on August 2. Legislators are meeting to allocate Virginia’s American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA)...
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The IRS has updated its Frequently Asked Questions on the paid sick and family leave tax credits under the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021....
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AHCA/NCAL will host a webinar on August 11 at 3:00 pm focused on the recent report, Invest in Trust: A Guide for Building COVID-19 Vaccine Trust Among Certified Nursing...
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As COVID-19 cases rise in communities across the country, nursing home and assisted living communities must pay close attention to CMS and CDC visitation guidance...
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The National Healthcare Safety Network (NHSN) has announced new changes coming this fall to reporting for long term care facilities. Changes will be made to...
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COVID-19 and its variants are once again plaguing the country as we see case counts rise. The COVID-19 vaccine is critical in slowing the spread....
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In a recent op-ed in the Virginian-Pilot, Mark Klyczek explains how Virginia Health Services (VHS) used every resource and tactic at its disposal to keep...
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VDH is hosting a conversation with Dr. Anthony Fauci, chief medical advisor to President Joe Biden, on how health care providers can approach their roles...
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VHCA-VCAL submitted comments to the Virginia Safety and Health Codes Board, the entity with authority over Virginia’s Final Permanent Standard (FPS) for Infectious Disease Prevention...
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This week on the anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the Department of...
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AHCA’s Infection Prevention and Control in the Post-COVID-19 World online course reviews how COVID-19 spreads, how to track and report the illness, and describes the...
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This week, President Joe Biden and a bipartisan group of Senators, including Virginia Sen. Mark Warner, reached an agreement on an infrastructure deal, including offsets...
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AHCA/NCAL has issued a policy statement regarding COVID-19 vaccinations for those working in long term care facilities. Key points in the policy include that AHCA/NCAL...
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The CDC announced updated guidance for fully vaccinated individuals on July 27. This guidance is aimed at preventing transmission levels of the highly communicable and now predominant...
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Providers can apply for funding opportunities to reduce burnout and promote mental health among the health workforce. The $103 million in funding was announced by...
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When Gov. Ralph Northam allowed the Commonwealth of Virginia’s public health emergency (PHE) to expire on June 30, 2021, the expiration removed the authority the...
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On July 19 the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Xavier Becerra extended the ongoing COVID-19 public health emergency (PHE) for an...
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Over the last month DSS has issued several memos for assisted living providers. Memos have covered a range of topics including: the end of COVID-related...
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While compliance with most of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) the COVID-19 Emergency Temporary Standard (ETS) became effective July 6, 2021, the agency extended the comment period...
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The Provider Relief Fund (PRF) Reporting Portal is now open for providers to report fund use for April 10, 2020 through June 30, 2020. Providers...
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The VDH provider enrollment team is sharing information regarding the benefits of enrolling with the state of Virginia to order, receive, and administer your own...
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DSS announced in a June 29 memo that when Virginia’s COVID-19 state of emergency ends on June 30, 2021, so will the DSS regulatory leniencies....
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In a June 30 memo to health care practitioners on COVID-19, State Health Commissioner Dr. Norman Oliver shared information on myocarditis and pericarditis following mRNA...
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Beginning July 8, the National Healthcare Safety Network (NHSN) will make multiple updates and modifications to reporting modules. NHSN users should have received an email...
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This week, AHCA announced that the profession is still working on a nationwide goal to vaccinate 75 percent of nursing home staff members against COVID-19. The current data...
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The Virginia Department of Labor and Industry’s (DOLI) Safety and Health Codes Board (Board) met on June 29 to discuss the future of the DOLI...
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The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has released Emergency Temporary Standards (ETS) to address exposure to COVID-19 to workers in health care settings. These standards...
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The CDC has issued a health advisory regarding increased interseasonal respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) activity. The CDC recommends staff of long term care facilities should avoid...
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Still not sure about getting the COVID-19 vaccine? AHCA/NCAL will hold a virtual townhall event for long term care staff on June 22, 2021, from...
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On June 10 CMS publicly posted COVID-19 staff and resident vaccination data for individual nursing facilities on its COVID-19 Nursing Home Data website. CMS will...
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Temporary nurse aides (TNAs) should be encouraged to take advantage of the pathway to become a CNA by submitting their applications to the Board of...
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Gov. Ralph Northam has signaled he will allow the state’s public health emergency (PHE) expire at midnight on June 30, 2021. VHCA-VCAL is evaluating how...
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If you were unable to attend the May 27 DSS/VDH Lunch and Learn, a recording of the webinar and presentation slides are now available. The...
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AHCA/NCAL is asking providers to complete a 15-minute survey to gauge how the industry is faring in 2021. Questions cover topics, including workforce, vaccines, personal...
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Beginning Monday, June 14, 2021, CMS will enforce compliance with the new vaccine education and reporting requirements and issue civil monetary penalties (CMPs) for facilities...
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In September 2020, CMS clarified that providers could use actual emergencies resulting in the activation of their emergency plan to offset the need for an annual full-scale,...
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Beginning June 14, 2021, CMS will enforce compliance with the new vaccine education and reporting requirements and issue civil monetary penalties (CMPs) for facilities that...
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The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) issued new guidance specifying that health care providers should only use N95 respirators and should not...
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On May 28, the US Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) updated its technical assistance questions and answers for employers on COVID-19 vaccinations. Providers should review...
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On May 21, DMAS issued a notice to long term care providers about CARES Act funding and its review of eligible invoices. The message from...
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WFXR, the Roanoke Fox affiliate, recently spotlighted the friendship that developed between South Roanoke Nursing Home’s administrator-in-training Walker Champney, and a 93-year old resident. The...
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VDH has asked VHCA-VCAL to share information about monoclonal antibody (mAb) infusions. Evidence suggests that mAb treatment can reduce the amount of the SARS-CoV-2 virus...
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Download the new, research-based guide and toolkit, Invest in Trust: A Guide for Building COVID-19 Vaccine Trust Among Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs). The guide sheds...
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Beginning June 14, 2021, CMS will enforce compliance with the new vaccine education and reporting requirements and issue civil monetary penalties (CMPs) for facilities that...
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While the vaccine and monoclonal antibody treatment are now readily available, the countless losses and pandemic-related stresses will continue into the future. AHCA/NCAL offers a...
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AHCA/NCAL is excited to share information about a free resource for long term care (LTC) providers, the Emotional PPE Project. This is a volunteer-run organization that...
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In a clinician’s letter published on May 14, 2021, State Health Commissioner Dr. Norman Oliver provided updates on the CDC guidance for fully vaccinated people, the importance...
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NCAL has developed a document with frequently asked questions about vaccination status of employees, residents, and visitors in light of HIPAA. This guidance does not...
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As a reminder, temporary nurse aides (TNAs) should be encouraged to take advantage of the pathway to become a CNA by submitting their applications to...
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To support providers in reporting data for vaccination status for residents and staff, the CDC is replaying their NHSN COVID-19 Vaccination Module Training with online Q&A in...
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The new CMS interim final rule on COVID-19 vaccine requirements takes effect May 21. This rule applies to residents, clients, and staff of long term...
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In a clinician’s letter published on May 14, 2021, State Health Commissioner Dr. Norman Oliver provided updates on the CDC guidance for fully vaccinated people,...
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On May 12, DSS issued updated tips and best practices for visitation in ALFs. The information focuses on ways to bring more families and friends of residents...
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On May 12, DSS issued updated tips and best practices for visitation in assisted living facilities (ALFs). The information focuses on ways to bring more...
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Last week, CMS announced a significant increase in Medicare payment rates for the administration of monoclonal antibodies, one of the most commonly used treatments for COVID-19. Under the...
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We obtained clarification from VDH regarding the Abbott BinaxNOW testing cards reagent solution. Members had questions about the expiration on the reagent solution as a...
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CMS has published an interim final rule on COVID-19 Vaccine Requirements and a related memo, QSO-21-19-NH on how to operationalize these new requirements. This rule...
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Last month, the IRS issued the third round of Economic Income Payments (EIP). Most Social Security beneficiaries and Supplemental Security Income recipients should have received...
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Abbott has announced that with continued testing for product stability, its BinaxNow COVID-19 AG Cards may now have a longer than labeled product expiration date....
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VDH has posted a new Toolkit for LTCFs to Sustain COVID-19 Vaccine Access and the recording from its May 3 COVID-19 Vaccines for LTCFs webinar. Questions...
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Beginning May 7, 2021, VDH is expanding its public dashboard presentation criteria to also publicly report outbreaks with any positive diagnostic test, including antigen tests....
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VDH has kept its vaccine uptake follow-up survey open until May 10. VHCA-VCAL encourages all members to respond to the survey. VDH is collecting vaccine...
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Based on the evolution of the COVID-19 pandemic, increased availability of vaccines, and feedback from long term care (LTC) facilities and National Healthcare Safety Network...
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The Health Quality Innovation Network (HQIN), the Quality Innovation Network-Quality Improvement Organization (QIN-QIO) for Virginia, has developed a variety of hand hygiene resources to provide...
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VHCA-VCAL is encouraging members to respond to the VDH follow-up survey to collect accurate census and vaccine completion data in Virginia nursing homes and assisted living...
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On April 27, CMS and CDC updated guidance for long term care facilities in response to COVID-19 vaccination. Key changes impact visitation, communal dining and...
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Rep. Abigail Spanberger (D-VA-7) led a bipartisan effort asking US Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra to release Provider Relief Funds (PRF)...
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The CDC outlines expectations for personal protective equipment (PPE) use in its interim infection prevention and control recommendations to prevent COVID-19 spread in nursing homes. Given that...
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Effective April 21, 2021, US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Xavier Becerra extended the ongoing COVID-19 public health emergency (PHE) for an additional 90...
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The Virginia Department of Labor and Industry (DOLI) has posted new frequently asked questions (FAQs) for the final standard related to COVID-19 on vaccine issues...
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VDH has developed a follow-up survey to collect accurate census and vaccine completion data in Virginia nursing homes and assisted living facilities. Facilities are requested...
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Rep. Abigail Spanberger (D-VA-7) led a bipartisan effort asking US Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra to release Provider Relief Funds toward...
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DSS and the VCU Department of Gerontology are partnering to present a webinar on May 3, Mental Health and Social Connectivity. The session will explore...
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Are you unsure about getting a COVID-19 vaccine, or know others who are not yet ready to get theirs? If so, join VDH for a...
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VDH has developed a follow-up survey to collect accurate census and vaccine completion data in Virginia nursing homes and assisted living facilities. Facilities are requested...
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For several months now, DMAS, representatives of the CCC Plus managed care organizations (MCOs), VHCA-VCAL staff, and other industry stakeholders have been discussing the best...
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VDH was informed recently that Becton Dickinson (BD) is seeking an expiration date extension on its point-of care (POC) antigen test devices. BD Veritor test devices...
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AHCA/NCAL issued an April 2 revision to its guidance on accepting admissions from hospitals during the COVID-19 pandemic. The purpose of the document is to...
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As part of QSO-21-17-NH, CMS has recognized that time worked by the nurse aides during the Public Health Emergency (PHE) may count towards meeting the...
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In QSO-21-17-NH CMS announced it is ending four of the 1135 waivers issued in response to the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency (PHE). These changes are...
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VHCA-VCAL’s Vaccine Status Reporting System has been updated to include an additional question related to first vaccine dose needs for residents. The new question asks,...
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COVID-19 has brought overwhelming grief to many families, and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is dedicated to helping ease some of the financial stress...
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All recipients of Provider Relief Fund (PRF) payments must comply with the reporting requirements described in the Terms and Conditions and specified in directions issued by the...
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Long term care facilities can track weekly COVID-19 vaccination data for health care personnel (HCP) and residents through the National Healthcare Safety Network (NHSN). The...
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Virginia State Health Commissioner Dr. M. Norman Oliver sent an update to healthcare practitioners across the Commonwealth on April 7. This update included information on: Importance...
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Long before the pandemic, long term care was in a recruitment and retention crisis. There is little reason to believe that things will get any...
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AHCA/NCAL’s latest digital issue of Provider focuses on financial recovery for the sector. Articles offer some clarity to long term care owners and operators wondering...
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CMS updated its guidance on communal dining in QSO-20-39-NH on visitation in nursing homes. CMS continues to recommend that facilities can engage in communal activities...
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The recording and presentation slides from the March 25 DSS and VDH COVID-19 Lunch & Learn Webinar Series for assisted living facilities (ALFs) are now...
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The IRS began issuing the third round of Economic Impact Payments (EIPs), which aim to support Americans and provide some financial relief. Many people will receive...
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The CDC Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Burn Rate Calculator- Version 2 is now available to download. Version 2 has more options for users to enter and...
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CMS is urging nursing homes to participate in a free training to help nursing homes keep their residents safe during the COVID-19 pandemic. These free...
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The Health Quality Innovation Network (HQIN) has developed COVID-19 vaccination administration and tracking tools to show you at-a-glance where your facility coverage stands and what...
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Please continue to use the Vaccine Status Reporting System (VSRS) we set up to help you meet your ongoing vaccine needs for new admissions and...
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CDC has updated the interim infection prevention and control (IPC) recommendations to prevent COVID-19 spread in nursing homes. The updates include: merging of two prior...
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DSS released a memo on March 19 on Visitation in Assisted Living Facilities: Updated Tips and Best Practices 3/19/21. The memo provides updated guidelines for...
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VHCA-VCAL President and CEO Keith Hare was a guest on this week’s Patients Come First podcast hosted by the Virginia Hospital and Healthcare Association (VHHA)....
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Keith Hare and Tom Orsini, president and CEO of Lake Taylor Transitional Care Hospital, shared their thoughts on the dedication of the long term care...
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AHCA/NCAL has unveiled its COVID-19 Honors program for long term care staff. This program was created for facilities to recognize their incredible staff in long term care...
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AHCA/NCAL is hosting a webinar on March 30 at 12:30 pm on the OSHA National Emphasis Program (NEP) to ensure employees in high-hazard industries are...
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The Abbott BinaxNOW COVID-19 Ag Card rapid antigen test is now available for purchase through Medline and McKesson. The US Department Health and Human Services...
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AHCA/NCAL has developed a #GetVaccinated Toolkit, which provides template email and newsletter content, FAQs, and suggested social media content. This valuable resource for providers is...
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In the presentation provided to the Virginia COVID-19 Long Term Care Task Force on March 18, VDH shared updated guidance for quarantine of new admissions....
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Earlier this week VHCA-VCAL launched the Vaccine Status Reporting System (VSRS), which allows facilities to enter a daily update of their ongoing COVID-19 vaccine needs...
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The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has implemented a National Emphasis Program (NEP) to ensure employees in high-hazard industries are protected from contracting COVID-19. The...
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CMS increased the Medicare payment amount for administering the COVID-19 vaccine. The updated rates policy also impacts Medicaid, Medicare Advantage, and commercial insurance vaccine administration policies....
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The CDC is actively monitoring vaccine safety and has two monitoring systems for reporting side effects. New videos released by the agency explain the two...
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Skilled nursing facilities should have received a message from CMS last week encouraging weekly reporting of vaccination uptake rates to the National Healthcare Safety Network...
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As facilities welcome resident families and friends for visits, you can use this CMS graphic to explain the expanded visitation options. While specific to nursing homes, remember...
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VDH has set up a form that nursing facilities and assisted living facilities can use to request a remote infection prevention and control assessment (teleICAR)....
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The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has implemented a National Emphasis Program (NEP) to ensure employees in high-hazard industries are protected from contracting COVID-19....
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DSS and VDH are partnering to launch a Lunch & Learn webinar series for ALFs running from March through June. The first episode focused on...
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In a March 16 memo to assisted living facilities, DSS provided information on the Long Term Care Facilities (LTCFs) bridge program, which is intended to...
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As facilities welcome resident families and friends for visits, you can use this CMS graphic to explain the expanded visitation options. While specific to nursing...
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DMAS has published a Medicaid Memo on COVID-19 flexibilities in effect through April 20, 2021. It includes information the specific flexibilities for nursing facilities that...
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DSS and VDH are partnering to launch a Lunch & Learn webinar series for assisted living facilities (ALFs) running from March through June. The first...
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[caption id="attachment_135858" align="alignright" width="469"] Left to right: Sonya Mitchell, Norine "Nani" Kaululaau, and Linda Ross [/caption] AHCA/NCAL has expanded its #GetVaccinated campaign, with support from...
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VDH is using the Long Term Care Facilities (LTCFs) bridge program to meet the ongoing needs of these facilities between the end of the CVS/Walgreens...
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CDC released new public health guidance on March 8 for individuals who are fully vaccinated. While the new guidance does not directly apply to LTC...
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On March 10 CMS released revisions to QSO-20-39-NH on nursing home visitation, incorporating vaccination status. The memo improves the ability for nursing home residents to...
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Abbott has received FDA approval to extend the expiration date for numerous lots of its BinaxNOW COVID-19 Ag cards. Abbot has provided a list of...
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The Roanoke Times recently reported that those residents and staff in Virginia’s long term care facilities (LTCFs) who wanted the COVID-19 vaccine had received it....
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AHCA/NCAL announced a new, grassroots opportunity facilitating the use of interested and qualified Medical Reserve Corps (MRC) volunteers to provide staff support for administering COVID-19...
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AHCA/NCAL surveyed members with different staff vaccination rates to understand what differentiates high versus low uptake rates. Check out this new resource, AHCA/NCAL Top Strategies...
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VDH is continuing to accept responses to its survey on vaccine uptake in long term care facilities. The agency would like to achieve a 100...
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Previously, AHCA/NCAL reported that the CDC revised its guidance to indicate that fully vaccinated persons with a known exposure to COVID-19 are no longer required to quarantine....
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Brighten A Day, a non-profit created by Hita Gupta, a teen who volunteered in long term care facilities prior to the pandemic, is offering its...
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AHCA/NCAL recently updated the COVID-19-related 3-Day Stay and Benefit-Period Waivers for Medicare Part A SNF PPS fact sheet and FAQ. Key updates to the file...
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As Medicare Advance and Accelerated Payments (AAP) repayment begin soon, facilities should make note of the applicable terms. Information on establishing an extended repayment schedules...
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VDH confirmed with Abbott this week that expired and unused BinaxNOW cards can be discarded in regular trash. They do not need to be discarded...
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VDH has established a process for long term care facilities to request additional vaccines for new admissions, new staff, or anyone who needs a second...
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AHCA/NCAL has a new webpage dedicated to Provider Relief Fund (PRF) and Quality Incentive Payment (QIP) resources and important information. The US Department of Health...
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In order to best estimate vaccine uptake and help plan for remaining vaccine distribution, VDH is asking all facilities to complete a short survey it...
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AHCA/NCAL has posted its February digital issue of Provider online. This month’s theme is infection control and prevention and what providers have learned during a year of the...
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Medicare Accelerated and Advance Payment (AAP) repayments will begin for all Medicare providers, including skilled nursing facilities (SNFs), which received AAP payments one year from...
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The US Department of Health and Human Services has sent instructions for facilities that no longer wish to receive periodic shipments of Abbott BinaxNOW COVID-19...
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Last week, NHSN emailed its users to notify them of updates made to the Long-Term Care Facility COVID-19 Module. Below is a brief summary of...
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Project ECHO has launched an Outpatient Therapeutics Mini-Series to provide a deep dive on new and emerging COVID-19 outpatient therapeutics, including monoclonal antibodies. Additionally, the Journal...
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AHCA/NCAL will host office hours on Thursday, February 25 at 3:00 pm to answer your questions about how to continue to access vaccinations. The CDC recently posted new...
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As the COVID-19 vaccine rolls out in long term care facilities, many questions have arisen about when we will see changes to restrictions on visitation,...
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AHCA/NCAL has just posted its February digital issue of Provider online. This month’s theme is infection control and prevention and what providers have learned during...
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While the vaccine and monoclonal antibody treatment are now available, the countless losses and pandemic-related stresses will continue into the future. AHCA/NCAL offers a three-part...
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As the COVID-19 vaccine rolls out in long term care facilities, many questions have arisen about when we will see changes to restrictions on visitation,...
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The CDC has revised its guidance on quarantining after exposure for staff members who have completed vaccination. The new guidance indicates that vaccinated persons with an exposure are...
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The US Department of Health and Human Services has sent instructions for facilities that no longer wish to receive periodic shipments of Abbott BinaxNOW COVID-19...
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This week, the CDC revised its guidance on quarantining after exposure for staff members who have completed vaccination. The new guidance indicates that vaccinated persons with an exposure...
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Nursing facilities have until Monday, February 15 to submit this spreadsheet to DMAS to reconcile the $20 per day nursing facility supplemental payments for utilization between...
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In Provider’s February issue, care providers share what COVID-19 policies have stood the test of time. In “Infection Control Lessons Learned,” clinicians say that new...
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State Health Commissioner Dr. Norman Oliver has issued a new COVID-19 update for Virginia long term care facilities (LTCFs). This clinician letter updates the September...
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CDC’s Long Term Care (LTC) Pharmacy Partnership Program provides three COVID-19 vaccination clinics for LTC facilities enrolled in the program. As many LTC facilities are...
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VDH is working to ensure LTC pharmacies have COVID-19 vaccine doses for ongoing needs in long term care after facilities complete their vaccine clinics under...
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February 15 is the deadline for nursing facilities to submit this spreadsheet to DMAS to reconcile the $20 per day nursing facility supplemental payments for utilization...
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VCU is recruiting additional nursing facilities to participate in its no-cost training and mentorship program for the ECHO National Nursing Home COVID Action Network. The...
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HHS recently updated the Provider Relief Fund (PRF) FAQs to clarify ownership structures and financial relationships between “parent” and “subsidiary” entities that received PRF funding (general and targeted). AHCA/NCAL...
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The CDC’s National Healthcare Safety Network (NHSN) created a factsheet that briefly outlines the domestic tracking and response system to identify emerging and enduring threats across health...
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In support of VDH’s efforts to increase utilization of monoclonal antibodies for the early treatment of COVID-19, the Virginia Hospital and Healthcare Association is hosting...
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To ensure that as many people get vaccinated, AHCA/NCAL wants to hear your stories of what’s working in your buildings. What has motivated your staff...
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The CDC has released data on the long term care staff and resident uptake of the COVID-19 vaccine in a Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report. The...
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The Washington Post reported on vaccine uptake among staff at long term care facilities in Virginia, Maryland, and DC. VHCA-VCAL members Rebecca Moralez-Fairbanks, administrator of...
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AHCA/NCAL has prepared an update on a series of workforce and employment-related issues addressed in the Consolidated Appropriations Act for 2021 (Act) passed at the...
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HHS recently launched the Provider Relief Fund (PRF) Reporting Portal, which is only open for providers to set up user accounts and register to submit reports. Currently,...
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Long term care facilities can track weekly COVID-19 vaccination data for health care personnel and residents through the National Healthcare Safety Network (NHSN). The modules...
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As LTC facilities are gearing up for their second clinics through the CDC’s Pharmacy Partnership for Long Term Care Program, it is important to provide...
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Gov. Ralph Northam approved the final workplace safety standards for COVID-19 adopted by the state’s Safety and Health Codes Board. Effective January 27, the final...
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A workgroup DMAS representatives, managed care organizations (MCO), and the nursing care sector have worked together to find a way to reconcile the special $20...
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For information and resources to help you answer questions and build vaccine confidence among staff and residents, check out the CDC's Long-Term Care Facility Toolkit:...
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CMS has provided updated clarifications to SNF Medicare Part A billing guidance when applying COVID-19 coverage waivers in MLN Matters SE20011. Since then, some providers...
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The HHS Office of the Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response (ASPR) has announced that over 691,969 patient courses of COVID-19 monoclonal antibodies (mAb) have...
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The US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) launched the Provider Relief Fund (PRF) Reporting Portal. The portal is only open for providers to set...
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The CDC recently updated its guidance on antigen testing in long term care facilities. Importantly, the CDC modified the algorithm on interpreting antigen tests to include: When...
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VDH has posted an updated version of its guidance for Closing a Healthcare Facility to New Admissions or Readmissions during the COVID-19 Pandemic: Interim Guidance for...
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The CDC recently updated its guidance on antigen testing in long term care facilities. Importantly, the CDC modified the to include: When to perform confirmatory PCR tests: Asymptomatic...
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The DSS ALF Outbreak Toolkit issued in late December is designed to provide easy access to the various tools and documents from different agencies to...
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As COVID-19 vaccination clinics get underway at assisted living facilities, we encourage you to promote positive vaccination stories between their first and second clinics. Sharing...
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For information and resources to help you answer questions and build vaccine confidence among staff and residents, check out the CDC's Long-Term Care Facility Toolkit:...
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A January 4 DSS memo on COVID-19 Vaccination Updates and Frequently Asked Questions discusses the implementation of the Pharmacy Partnership for Long Term Care Facilities....
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Millions of Americans are slated to receive a second Economic Impact Payment (EIP) as part of the recently passed and enacted Coronavirus bill. This follows...
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Please remember to update your facility’s status in Virginia Healthcare Alerting and Status System (VHASS) at least Monday through Friday. As COVID-19 cases continue to...
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VDH has posted these CDC Pharmacy Partnership LTCF Vaccine Clinics: Lessons Learned from National Associations. Remember to check the CVS and Walgreens Pharmacy Partnership webpages...
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The US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has rescinded its prior requirement that skilled nursing facilities report COVID-19 point-of-care (POC) test results to...
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US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Alex Azar extended the public health emergency (PHE) due to COVID-19 effective January 21, 2021. The PHE is...
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State Health Commissioner Dr. Norman Oliver has issued a COVID-19 update on January 11, 2021 with information on topics that include: Updates on COVID-19 Vaccine...
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VDH asked VHCA-VCAL to share that the agency has Abbott BinaxNOW rapid antigen test cards available for nursing home and assisted living facility providers. You...
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VDH has developed guidance for Closing a Healthcare Facility to New Admissions or Readmissions during the COVID-19 Pandemic: Interim Guidance for Local Health Departments and...
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AHCA/NCAL will use a new tactic for the last set of its national media ads called peer-to-peer texting. Peer-to-peer texting sends individual texts to people...
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Members should continue to promote positive vaccination stories between their first and second vaccine clinics. Sharing positive stories will help with vaccine uptake and building...
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The CDC recently updated its guidance to clarify that long term care facility residents or health care personnel may get the COVID-19 vaccine administered within 14 days of...
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The Virginia Board of Health has developed amendments to the regulations for disease reporting and control by adding COVID-19 reporting requirements for physicians and directors...
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According to a January 4 DSS memo on COVID-19 Vaccination Updates and Frequently Asked Questions, ALFs can be scheduled for their vaccination clinics beginning Monday,...
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In QSO-20-31-All (Revised 01/04/2021), CMS has released updated guidance on the frequency of focused infection control (FIC) surveys as well as providing FAQs regarding health,...
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[caption id="attachment_133116" align="alignright" width="234"] Kim Randolph, LPN at Northampton Convalescent and Rehab Center[/caption] The second round of ads made as part of AHCA/NCAL’s national media...
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Dr. David Gifford, AHCA/NCAL Chief Medical Officer, addresses important questions about the COVID-19 vaccine in a series of new videos as part of the AHCA/NCAL #GetVaccinated...
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The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) has updated its COVID-19 Guidance What you Should Know about COVID-19 and the ADA, the Rehabilitation Act, and other EEO...
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VDH FAQs for the LTCF vaccination program have been added to the agency’s Vaccination webpage under the "Vaccination: Long Term Care Facilities" section. VDH has...
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The National Healthcare Safety Network (NHSN) has launched the COVID-19 Vaccine Reporting Modules for residents and healthcare personnel in long term care facilities (LTCFs). These...
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The Health and Human Services Office of the Assistant Secretary for Preparedness (HHS ASPR) has launched the Special Projects for Equitable and Efficient Distribution (SPEED)...
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Please provide updated census information through December 2020 to Steve Ford by January 8, 2021. This information will be used to support VHCA-VCAL’s advocacy efforts to obtain...
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As a reminder, CMS is requiring the reporting of point-of-care (POC) antigen test results (see p. 2 of this HHS memo). CMS is not requiring...
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DSS issued a memo announcing its newest resource, the ALF Outbreak Toolkit. The toolkit is designed to provide easy access to the various tools and...
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To help you support the effort to get long term care staff and residents vaccinated for COVID-19, VHCA-VCAL has developed a social media toolkit. The...
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Remember to keep checking the AHCA/NCAL #GetVaccinated webpage, which is being updated regularly with new resources. The latest updates include numerous printable graphics to promote...
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Everyone has a plan ‘til they get punched in the mouth. Mike Tyson said that about his first bout with Evander Holyfield back in the...
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The US Department of Health and Human Services Office of the Assistant Secretary for Preparedness (HHS ASPR) implemented a federal program called Special Projects for...
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OSHA has released a new resource to help employers understand compliance with OSHA’s Respiratory Protection standard during the COVID-19 pandemic. Due to the increased demand and shortage...
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DSS has issued a memo related to Executive Order (EO) 72 – Commonsense Surge Restrictions, which are effective through January 31, 2021. EO 72 strengthens...
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The VDH COVID-19 Testing Team is seeking assistance from both NFs and ALFs in learning more about COVID-19 testing in LTCFs. The Testing Team has developed...
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Late last week CVS and Walgreens updated their vaccination program websites, consent information, and FAQs to reflect that they will accept verbal or email consent...
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AHCA/NCAL President & CEO Mark Parkinson sent a message to members outlining details in the latest Congressional stimulus package. He notes it’s a mixed bag...
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In the latest memo to assisted living facilities (ALFs), DSS noted that vaccination clinics in the Commonwealth are scheduled to begin December 28, 2020, with...
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VDH and DSS will host a Lunch and Learn for assisted living facilities on Tuesday, December 22 from 12:00 -12:45 pm. The agencies will review...
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The US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has released additional information on using Provider Relief Funds (PRF) for vaccine administration. These additions are...
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On December 16, the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) began distribution of the Phase 3 Provide Relief Funding, which includes $1.1 billion...
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Legislation passed during the 2020 special session requires VDH to share a public-facing dashboard of COVID-19 outbreaks reported to the agency by long term care...
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Review Pfizer’s Fact Sheet for Healthcare Providers Administering Vaccine (Vaccination Providers) regarding the limitations of the emergency use authorization approved last week. During the COVID-19...
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CMS has issued a Q&A on COVID-19 point-of-care (POC) testing and a Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) Certificate of Waiver (CoW) applications. The agency notes...
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In an effort to further simplify access to the state’s allocation of CARES Act funding to nursing facilities and assisted living facilities, DMAS has announced...
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VDH and CDC continue to recommend a 14-day quarantine period after the last close contact to a person with COVID-19 as the safest option to...
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VHCA-VCAL is again completing census information to support our advocacy efforts to obtain continued COVID-19 assistance and permanent payment reforms to address historic Medicaid underfunding....
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VDH and AHCA/NCAL has developed many resources to help you plan for your COVID-19 vaccine clinics and communicate with staff and residents about the importance...
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On Monday, December 21 from 7:00 – 8:00 pm VDH will host an expert panel to discuss COVID-19 vaccine facts for long term care facility staff...
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Facilities are encouraged to share the Coping with COVID-19 for Families video with their residents’ families. The video will provide context and help families understand...
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AHCA/NCAL has developed many resources to help you plan for your COVID-19 vaccine clinics and communicate with staff and residents about the importance of getting...
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CMS has issued a Q&A on COVID-19 point-of-care (POC) testing and a Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) Certificate of Waiver applications. The agency notes it...
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On December 9, DSS issued a memo outlining the safety expectations for onsite inspections along with its onsite inspection safety protocol, and a related screening...
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DSS’s Division of Licensing Programs announced that the Northam Administration has provided funding for personal protective equipment (PPE) “Push Packs” for all assisted living facilities...
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Join us Friday, December 11, for a free webinar, Making Spirits Bright: Celebrating the Holidays during the COVID-19 Pandemic. Barbara Speeding will be exploring the...
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On December 2, 2020, CDC released Options to Reduce Quarantine for Contacts of Persons with SARS-CoV-2 Infection Using Symptom Monitoring and Diagnostic Testing. CDC continues to...
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VDH is hosting a series of community conversations webinars over the next two weeks. All sessions will be held at 6:00 pm. We would encourage you to share...
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On December 4, VDH announced the Commonwealth’s COVID-19 vaccine priorities. Virginia is expecting to receive 480,000 doses of vaccine from Pfizer and Moderna (pending FDA emergency use...
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In case you missed it, AHCA/NCAL has posted helpful resources and FAQs on COVID-19 testing and vaccination, testing vendors, and OSHA-related resources for dealing with...
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In an interview with 13 News Now, Norfolk’s ABC affiliate, Keith Hare expressed hopefulness that vaccine clinics in nursing homes could begin by December 28....
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AHCA/NCAL is offering a three-part webinar series that addresses the extraordinary strains the COVID-19 pandemic has on nursing facility and assisted living residents and staff....
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On December 9, CMS posted updates to FAQs and an infographic about coverage and payment for monoclonal antibodies to treat COVID-19. The FDA has issued...
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CMS has released FAQs related to new guidance on testing in nursing facilities. The FAQs address long-standing questions posed from providers. The questions address various issues including...
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Is your facility ready to face a most unusual holiday season? The COVID-19 pandemic has challenged everyone to find new ways to celebrate this year....
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There is still time to register for the five-part Financial Conference that kicks off on Monday, December 7. Sessions will address post-acute financing and Medicaid,...
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AHCA/NCAL has prepared a document which clarifies the CMS/CDC description of the data quality assurance (QA) process (found in the ‘detailed explanation’ on Data.CMS.gov) for...
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[caption id="attachment_131351" align="alignright" width="600"] Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/DX_EPNk3wqM[/caption] In a new video for frontline long term care workers, AHCA/NCAL’s chief medical officer Dr. David Gifford...
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On December 1, the CDC Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) voted to include long term care residents at the highest level of priority for the first...
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The US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has released the dollar amounts for skilled nursing facilities that received Quality Incentive Payments in September. These include both infection and...
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[caption id="attachment_131215" align="alignright" width="446"] Latin descent family and friends hold hands and pray during Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner. Close-up of hands in foreground.[/caption] On November...
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The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) released a one-pager on frequently cited standards related to COVID-19 inspections. Some of these include fit tests for respirators, providing...
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The National Healthcare Safety Network (NHSN) verbally announced there will be updates issued to two reporting pathways. The Resident Impact and Facility Capacity Pathway and the Staff...
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CMS Administrator Seema Verma made two key announcements on November 12 about surveyor calls to nursing homes with COVID-19 cases and staffing and PPE shortages,...
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AHCA/NCAL previously shared details of the Quality Incentive Payment (QIP) program run by the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) for skilled nursing facilities (SNF)....
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AHCA/NCAL is asking providers to complete a 15-20 minute survey regarding COVID-19’s impact on your facility/company. Providers will be asked about several topics, including workforce,...
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The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) released a one-pager on frequently cited standards related to COVID-19 inspections. Some of these include fit tests for respirators, providing...
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To ensure Virginia’s facilities are provided the opportunity to take advantage of the Pharmacy Partnership for Long Term Care Program, VDH partnered with the US...
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VDH and CDC have published guidance on holiday celebrations. The VDH guidance is specific to the risks and benefits long term care facility (LTCF) residents...
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DSS issued two memos this week. The first includes holiday visitation considerations to help facilities balance the need to protect residents and finding ways to...
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The General Assembly concluded its special session earlier this week by considering Gov. Ralph Northam’s budget amendments. All of the long term care related funding...
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The deadline for opting into the Pharmacy Partnership Program was November 6, 2020. As of noon last Friday, VDH knew a significant number of long term...
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Virginia has purchased additional antigen testing capability (BD Veritor System) to be sent to facilities that received direct shipments of either the BD Veritor System...
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In an updated memo from HHS, the point-of-care testing results are now required as part of the National Healthcare Safety Network (NHSN) system. The US Health and...
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CDC is hosting webinars this week on reporting point-of-care (POC) testing. The NHSN team will introduce and provide training for a new NHSN Long Term...
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President and CEO of Virginia Health Services Mark Klyczek spoke with WVEC, the Hampton Roads ABC affiliate, about the rising number of COVID-19 cases...
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The George Mason University (GMU) National Nursing Home COVID-19 Action Network will hold an information session Friday, November 13 at 9:30 am for nursing facilities that...
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For several weeks, DMAS has been engaged with three CCC Plus managed care organizations (MCOs), VHCA-VCAL, and LeadingAge Virginia to discuss how best to reconcile...
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The CDC updated the interim infection prevention and control recommendations for health care personnel (HCP) during the COVID-19 pandemic. A summary of the changes includes: Different options...
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VDH and CDC have published guidance on holiday celebrations. The VDH guidance is specific to the risks and benefits long term care facility (LTCF) residents...
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Nick Uehlecke, advisor to US Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Alex Azar, will be leading a call today for assisted living providers who...
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AHCA/NCAL is offering a new three-part webinar series that addresses the extraordinary strains the COVID-19 pandemic has on nursing facility and assisted living residents and...
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The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has released a new resource: Respiratory Protection Guidance for the Employers of Those Working in Nursing Homes, Assisted Living,...
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HHS recently made a significant number of updates to its CARES Act Provider Relief Fund FAQs. AHCA/NCAL has issued document containing the new FAQs. Notable changes...
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CMS launched a new online platform, the Nursing Home Resource Center, to serve as a centralized hub bringing together the latest information, guidance, and data...
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Nursing facilities have until November 13 to apply for civil monetary penalty (CMP) funds to help facilitate in-person visitation between residents and their loved ones....
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George Mason University (GMU) is joining the ECHO National Nursing Home COVID Action Network as an official training center for nursing homes. Participation is free...
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The deadline for long term care facilities (LTCFs) to sign up to participate in the Pharmacy Partnership for Long Term Care Program, the national vaccine...
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On October 22, HHS announced changes to the reporting requirements and expanded the types of providers who could apply for Provider Relief Funds. Key takeaways: ...
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This week, CMS has added a new requirement that all point-of-care (POC) antigen test results conducted in a facility must be reported to NHSN. The...
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We received the following guidance from the Virginia Board of Nursing (BON) regarding antigen testing at facilities: Q: The federal government will be distributing point-of-care...
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VDH posted a new document, VDH COVID-19 Guidance for Nursing Homes, on the Virginia Long-Term Care Task Force webpage on October 22. The document lists...
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Assisted living facilities have until November 7 to take advantage of the opportunity to conduct a baseline point prevalence survey (PPS) at no charge to...
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Project ECHO and Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) are actively recruiting nursing homes across Virginia to join an interactive community of practice to advance improvements in...
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On November 2 at 10:00 am, VDH and the Virginia Hospital & Healthcare Association is hosting a webinar on COVID-19 vaccine planning, updates on the...
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The deadline for long term care facilities (LTCF) to sign up to participate in the Pharmacy Partnership for Long-Term Care Program has been extended to Friday,...
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The US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has announced it will distribute approximately $333 million in the first round of quality incentive payments...
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Abbott is offering recurring webinars in October about the BinaxNOW™ COVID-19 Ag Card and the NAVICA™ App. BD has released new training resources on batch...
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With the extension of the COVID-19 public health emergency (PHE), DMAS applied for the extension of the state-based waivers allowing regulatory flexibility to providers. Per...
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AHCA/NCAL has issued an updated version of its PPE Suppliers list. The list is composed of vendors that have successfully delivered PPE to long term...
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On October 19, 2020, the US Department of Labor (DOL) Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs (OFCCP) issued Directive 2021-01 titled Extending the Scheduling Moratorium for Veterans...
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In light of COVID-19, the Board of Nursing (BON) is seeking information from clinical facilities to aid in its decision making going forward regarding nursing...
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VCU has been approved as a training hub for the ECHO National Nursing Home COVID Action Network and is looking to recruit three cohorts of...
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VCU has been approved as a training hub for the ECHO National Nursing Home COVID Action Network and is looking to recruit three cohorts of...
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Providers have until October 29* to enroll or opt out of CDC’s Pharmacy Partnership for Long Term Care today. Pharmacy partners will provide on-site COVID-19...
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To reinforce key learnings related to BinaxNOW™ COVID-19 Ag Card and the NAVICA™ App, Abbott will be offering optional recurring webinars in October. These webinars...
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VDH and the Virginia Hospital and Healthcare Association will host a webinar for long term care and other Virginia healthcare stakeholders on Thursday, October 22,...
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It’s time to prepare for the safe and rapid dissemination of a COVID-19 vaccine to long-term care residents, once available. It is important for facilities...
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AHCA/NCAL now has an Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Respiratory Protection Plan Template developed by OSHA experts at Littler. Providers should note that if respirators...
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AHCA/NCAL has launched a new three-part webinar series that addresses the extraordinary strains the COVID-19 pandemic has on nursing facility and assisted living residents and...
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VHCA-VCAL has been in touch with entities in Virginia interested in serving as training centers for the ECHO National Nursing Home COVID-19 Action Network. We...
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CMS issued QSO-20-41-ALL on September 28 to provide guidance on the specific testing exercises required under the emergency preparedness regulations in light of the coronavirus...
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VHCA-VCAL received an update from Kim Beazley, deputy director of the VDH Office of Licensure and Certification (OLC), on nursing home surveyor testing for COVID-19....
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Long term care facilities continue to experience shortages of personal protective equipment (PPE), namely N95 masks. The recently updated guidance from CDC on how COVID-19 spreads through...
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The ECHO National Nursing Home COVID-19 Action Network will host a Nursing Home Introductory Webinar series in October. The network is open to all nursing homes at...
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CMS has granted states the ability to use Civil Monetary Penalty (CMP) Reinvestment funds to help facilitate in-person visitation between residents and their loved ones....
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Effective October 23, the public health emergency (PHE) issued by the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has been extended for another 90...
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The US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) announced a new opportunity for providers to seek funding through the HHS Provider Relief Fund (PRF). HHS will be...
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This week, the CDC released new information on testing in nursing homes through the frequently asked questions website. The new guidance addresses discordant test results (i.e., false positives and...
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This week both VDH and CMS posted county positivity data that can be used for determining the frequency of staff and resident testing for COVID-19....
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CMS has issued an updated version of the SNF QRP COVID-19 Public Reporting Tip Sheet today, October 1. The tip sheet is intended to help...
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The House of Delegates and Senate of Virginia budget committees released their respective amendments to the current biennial budget, which included continued funding for the...
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With test kits being distributed to skilled nursing facilities and assisted living facilities, there are several considerations to take into account around screening employees and...
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The CDC has announced a new point-of-care (POC) Laboratory Reporting Pathway through the National Healthcare Safety Network (NHSN) LTC COVID-19 Module. The new reporting pathway...
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On September 25, CMS released several new tools to help reduce delays for laboratories or other sites seeking a Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendment (CLIA) Waiver. This...
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On Friday, October 2 at 3:00 pm, AHCA/NCAL will host an “office hour” to provide up-to-date answers to your questions about provider relief fund reporting requirements based upon...
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On September 17, 2020, CMS released a memo, QSO-20-39-NH, on visitation that also addresses communal activities and dining. Assisted living communities are also strongly encouraged to...
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VHCA-VCAL submitted comments last week to the Department of Labor and Industry (DOLI) on the permanent standard for COVID-19 prevention and mitigation in the workplace...
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The Virginia Department of Labor and Industry (DOLI) and VDH have collaborated on a notification portal for employers to report COVID-19 cases in accordance with...
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Chief Clinical Officer of Trio-Health Care, LLC Melissa Green has generously shared policies and procedures to assist VHCA-VCAL members with testing related to the BD...
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On September 22 CMS again updated the Excel file that flags COVID-19 positive test rates in counties on the COVID-19 Nursing Home Data webpage in...
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HHS released additional information on how $2 billion in incentive payments will be distributed to nursing homes under the CARES Act. AHCA has prepared a summary of...
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On September 21, the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) released new information regarding reporting requirements for recipients of funds from the CARES...
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The US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) will be sending 1 million Abbott BinaxNOW™ test kits to skilled nursing facilities and 540,000 test...
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If you have a unique situation (like CHOWs, for example) that has not yet been resolved in accessing the CARES Act direct provider relief, please...
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On Friday, September 11, the US Department of Labor (DOL) issued an update to the temporary rule it issued in April regarding coronavirus leave. This...
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A September 14 clinician's letter from State Health Commissioner Dr. Norman Oliver highlights numerous updates from the agency including the launch of the portal for...
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Late last week, AHCA/NCAL received a handful of reports of BD Analyzers producing COVID-19 false positives with staff and residents. AHCA/NCAL is working closely with...
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The US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) wants to reward buildings that are successful in keeping COVID-19 out of nursing homes or at...
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VDH has been notified by the CDC that a COVID-19 vaccine could be distributed to states in the fall of 2020. Working with the VDH...
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VDH and the Virginia National Guard (VANG) are providing Respiratory Fit Testing Train-the-Trainer courses. The course is offered to ensure organizations that have staff that...
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In a letter to the editor of the Martinsville Bulletin, President and CEO Keith Hare responded to an editorial questioning how long term care residents...
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CMS requires nursing homes to test staff on a serial basis. VDH has created a REDCap form to notify the local health departments that your...
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Frontline Impact Project matches healthcare workers and first responders with donated non-PPE resources, including snacks, meals, beverages, and personal care items. Created by The KIND...
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COVID-19 has been around for months and there still is not a one-size fits all approach that addresses how to navigate the process of residents...
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The US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has extended the deadline for assisted living providers to submit their taxpayer ID numbers for validation...
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With CMS beginning to resume routine inspections of nursing facilities, the move back to normal has started. Now is the time to start thinking about...
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If you are a private pay or Medicaid-certified assisted living/memory care community, ensure that you apply for the HHS Phase 2 General Distribution round of...
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In a recent op-ed published by Virginia Mercury, Renee Allen, a nurse and the current administrator at Lucy Corr in Chesterfield County, shares why it...
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In a recent Roanoke Times op-ed, Keith Hare, highlights the ongoing needs of Virginia’s nursing homes and also notes that for years Virginia’s nursing homes...
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On September 3, the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) announced its $2 billion quality incentive program for nursing homes as part of...
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COVID-19 has been around for months and there still is not a one-size fits all approach that addresses how to navigate the process of residents...
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CMS has posted a COVID-19 Public Reporting Tip Sheet to help providers understand the CMS public reporting strategy for the SNF Quality Reporting Program (QRP)...
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On September 8, CMS posted a new excel file dated 9-8-20 that flags positive test rates in counties. Each county highlighted in green, yellow and...
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A letter from Virginia State Health Commissioner Dr. M. Norman Oliver issued on September 9 reiterates numerous actions long term care facilities (LTCFs) should be...
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VHCA-VCAL has received feedback from VDH regarding antigen testing. Since CDC has now published their antigen testing guidance for nursing homes, VDH is now deferring...
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The US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) announced that private-pay assisted living/memory care providers will be eligible to apply for CARES Act Provider...
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Entering the third week of Virginia’s special legislative session, we are grateful for the support of our advocacy efforts about the ongoing needs of Virginia’s...
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VDH will be launching a new reporting portal sometime next week which will allow nursing facilities to enter both positive and negative test results for...
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The CMS interim final rule with requirements for routine COVID-19 testing in nursing homes was officially published on September 2, 2020 and is in effect...
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The US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has released nearly $2.5 billion of a planned $5 billion distribution to nursing homes in support...
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DSS has issued a memo on hurricane preparedness for ALFs. The agency notes that the links may be helpful as ALFs review and update their...
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Please join AHCA/NCAL for an all member webinar with President and CEO Mark Parkinson and Chief Medical Officer Dr. David Gifford tomorrow, Friday, August 28...
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VHCA-VCAL has heard from several members that the most recent CARES Act distribution is being deposited in bank accounts with “CARES Act NH Pmt*HHS.GOV” in...
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DSS issued a memo on August 25 to all licensed assisted living facilities (ALFs) noting that all PPE being distributed through the Virginia Department of...
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Legislators continue to introduce bills for consideration in the 2020 special session. Topics affecting long term care provider include visitation, prioritization for testing, immunity protections...
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The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality is supporting the national ECHO program and the Institute for Healthcare Improvement to start a series of webinars...
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The latest update to the list of nursing facilities being sent a point-of-care (POC) antigen testing device and test kit by CMS includes over 230...
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VDH, in alignment with CDC Guidance for Responding to Coronavirus (COVID-19) in Nursing Homes, has created a simplified flow chart to inform discharge planning between...
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In response to an editorial in the Fredericksburg Free Lance-Star calling for more COVID-19 testing in nursing facilities, Keith Hare wrote a letter to the...
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In article published earlier this week, the Daily Press highlights the creative ways members including Riverside Lifelong Health and Aging Related Services, Virginia Health Services,...
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CMS has announced the launch of its national nursing home training program for frontline nursing home staff and nursing home management. The training, called “CMS...
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CMS issued two new QSO memos to accompany the interim final rule on COVID-19 staff testing and Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) reporting requirements. AHCA...
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CMS issued the text of the interim final rule on August 25 that revises regulations in several areas for long term care (LTC) facilities and...
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On August 12 AHCA released the 2020-Q3 Top-Line for skilled nursing centers. For the first time, it allows facilities to compare their staff and resident...
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If you missed the Virginia Long Term Care Hurricane Preparedness in a COVID-19 Environment Webinar on August 12, a recording and slides has been posted...
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Starting on August 20, the CMS-CDC live webinar series will transition to a pre-recorded, self-paced format. The new CMS-CDC Fundamentals of COVID-19 Prevention for Nursing Home Management...
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CMS issued a Quality, Safety & Oversight (QSO) memo, QSO-20-35-ALL, to states instructing them to return to normal survey process as soon as resources in...
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DMAS has issued instructions on how nursing facilities (NFs) and assisted living facilities (ALFs) can access the $33 million and $20 million, respectively, in CARES...
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Legislators kicked off the 2020 General Assembly special session on August 18 in Richmond. With a mix of in-person and virtual meetings, legislators will be...
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As the legislators headed back to Richmond for the General Assembly’s special session, VHCA-VCAL President and CEO Keith Hare wrote an op-ed published in the...
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On July 30 DSS sent a memo to all licensed entities, including ALFs noting the applicability of the emergency temporary standard (ETS) issued by the...
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On August 10, the CDC updated the return to work criteria for healthcare professionals (HCP) with the COVID-19 infection. A test-based strategy is no longer recommended (except...
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The Department of Medical Assistance Services (DMAS) has issued instructions on how assisted living facilities can access the $20 million in CARES Act funding distributed...
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On August 11, the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) changed terminology describing various allocations and added FAQs on availability of Medicaid awards. Terminology HHS...
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On August 10, the Board of Nursing has issued an additional waiver for the Nurse Aide Education Program. 18VAC90-26-20. Establishing and Maintaining a Nurse Aide...
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VDH has shared information in response to questions about how to prioritize use of N-95 masks. The information covers what to do if your N95...
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VDH has published guidance to help nursing homes on the use of point-of-care (POC) antigen testing devices (Quidel Sofia 2 instrument or the BD Veritor...
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COVID-19 infection risks are associated with long term care residents requiring outside medical appointments, including dialysis. These risks are impacted by the processes around these...
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On August 10, the CDC updated the return to work criteria for healthcare professionals (HCP) with the COVID-19 infection. A test-based strategy is no longer recommended (except...
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The CDC National Healthcare Safety Network (NHSN) updated the instructions for completing the NHSN pathway for Resident Impact and Facility Capacity and added questions on testing. NHSN...
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As the General Assembly convenes in Richmond next week for a special session, VHCA-VCAL is respectfully requesting that the General Assembly continue the $20 per...
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These months with COVID-19 have been unlike anything the healthcare system has ever witnessed. Relias recently hosted a webinar for an in-depth discussion of the...
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DSS sent a memo to all licensed entities, including ALFs noting the applicability of the emergency temporary standard (ETS) issued by the Virginia Department of...
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The current COVID-19 Public Health Emergency (PHE) does not waive any requirements related to Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) Consolidated Billing (CB); however, CMS added CPT...
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When The White House announced an additional $5 billion would be forthcoming in Provider Relief Funds for nursing facilities, a CMS press release also referred...
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On July 31, the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) announced three new approaches to securing funding for Medicaid-only providers, certain Medicare providers,...
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No details are yet available on the instructions for accessing the $53 million in funding announced by Gov. Ralph Northam in June. The Commonwealth will...
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During an August 12 webinar, the Virginia Healthcare Emergency Management Program, in cooperation with the VDH Office of Emergency Preparedness and the Virginia Hospital and...
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CMS has begun distributing point-of-care (POC) antigen COVID-19 testing devices to nursing facilities (NF) across the country. Since the agency made this announcement on July...
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Can you help VHCA-VCAL spotlight the COVID-19 recoveries in long term care? While we know many members are still in the midst of outbreaks, there...
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The Virginia Department of General Services (DGS) and AHCA/NCAL have both developed PPE supplier lists to help providers source critical supplies. Additionally, access to a...
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The US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is considering relief funds for private-pay assisted living providers. To help facilitate this, the national trade...
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DSS has published a letter and timeline with additional information about the $20 million in funding for assisted living facilities (ALFs) announced by Gov. Ralph...
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AHCA/NCAL is aware of the frustrations members have had with changes in ownership (CHOW) impeding receipt of Provider Relief Funds. Eliminating fraud related to these funds...
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In an interview with WAMU, Washington, DC’s NPR station, VHCA-VCAL’s Keith Hare explained, “While the numbers in Virginia as a whole for the population are...
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DMAS issued a memo on July 21 extended regulatory flexibilities during the COVID-19 public health emergency. The memo specifies that the additional $20 per day...
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On July 17, the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) extended the application deadline for the Medicaid tranche of the COVID-19 Provider...
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On July 17, the CDC posted substantial changes to the transmission-based precautions and revised the criteria for return to work for healthcare personnel with COVID-19 Infection. As...
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The Virginia Department of Labor and Industry (DOLI) posted the final Emergency Temporary Standard (ETS) for COVID-19 prevention and mitigation on July 17. The ETS...
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[caption id="attachment_124526" align="alignright" width="289"] Melissa Green, RN, MSHA, LNHA, is partner and chief clinical officer of Trio Healthcare.[/caption] Melissa Green, partner and chief clinical officer...
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Skilled nursing facilities/nursing facilities (SNFs/NFs) must have a Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendment (CLIA) Certificate of Waiver to perform COVID-19 testing to be used in point-of-care...
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On July 21, the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) released a framework for more detailed Provider Relief Fund (PRF) reporting guidance and...
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President Donald Trump announced $5 billion in additional Provider Relief Funds allocated for skilled nursing facilities on July 22. CMS and CDC will also roll...
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On July 13 VDH published an update to the Nursing Home Guidance for Phased Reopening. The changes update the definition of a nursing home-onset case...
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The Virginia National Guard (VANG) is wrapping up the Point Prevalence Surveys (PPS) for all nursing homes and those assisted living facilities (ALFs) with outbreaks...
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According to the Virginia Licensed Nursing Facility COVID-19 Dashboard, over 2,500 nursing home residents and patients have recovered from COVID-19! This data is derived from...
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The CDC and the National Healthcare Safety Network (NHSN) updated the instructions document on one of the four pathways. The Resident Impact and Facility Capacity Pathway instructions...
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In an update to QSO-20-28-NH, CMS reminds nursing facilities that providing ombudsman access to residents is required per 42 CFR § 483.10(f)(4)(i) and per the...
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CMS announced that COVID-19 point-of-care testing devices will be distributed to nursing facilities across the country. This initiative is a one-time procurement of devices and...
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DSS issued a memo on June 23 with Recommendations for Reopening Assisted Living Facilities. Each individual facility should consider the reopening criteria and move through...
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[caption id="attachment_122481" align="alignright" width="397"] HHS Secretary Alex Azar[/caption] Five members of Virginia’s Congressional delegation recently wrote to US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS)...
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Don't forget to register for our upcoming webinars offering NAB-approved continuing education. The webinars will cover COVID-19’s impact on pharmacy services and medication management and...
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Join AHCA/NCAL and PLUS Communications for a live, ahcancalED webinar on July 23, 2020 at 2:00 pm on how effectively communicate with the media and...
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The CDC has updated its guidance on testing individuals in nursing homes. While much of the guidance remains consistent, AHCA/NCAL has highlighted some key changes. New...
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On July 2, 2020, VDH issued Updated VDH Nursing Home Guidance for Phased Reopening and Nursing Home Reopening Guidance Frequently Asked Questions. The agency also...
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In an op-ed published in the Fredericksburg Free-Lance Star, Rep. Abigail Spanberger (D-VA-07) and Rep. Rob Wittman (R-VA-01) write, “As COVID-19 remains a threat for...
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Pharmacy experts Erin Foti and Bill Vaughan of Remedi SeniorCare will lead a one-hour webinar on July 14 to share best practices related to drug...
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Identifying reliable personal protective equipment (PPE) suppliers during the COVID-19 pandemic has been extremely challenging for providers. AHCA/NCAL has vetted countless vendors and concluded that...
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On June 26, CMS updated skilled nursing facility (SNF) billing guidance related to Medicare beneficiaries receiving care when a SNF utilizes the COVID-19 public health...
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According to a June 30 memo, VDH is seeking to schedule point prevalence surveys (PPS) by July 6 to meet the goal of completing PPS...
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We are hosting two webinars offering NAB credit in July on COVID-19’s impact on pharmacy services and medication management and MDS. Reserve your spots today!...
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As a reminder, our COVID-19 Resources webpage includes links to all of our member updates sent from April Payne, as well as the AHCA/NCAL updates....
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Tammy Eichner, the director of nursing at Galax Health and Rehab, wrote a guest column for the Galax Gazette about navigating her facility through a...
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VHCA-VCAL has learned that some members have begun to receive civil monetary penalty (CMP) grant funds for adaptive communicative technologies to promote virtual visits and...
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It has come to our attention that some members have noticed errors in the COVID-19 outbreak data posted on the Virginia Long-Term Care Task Force...
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On June 24 CMS released an updated set of frequently asked questions on nursing facility visitation. The questions address steps to take before reopening to...
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VDH issued the VDH Nursing Home Guidance for Phased Reopening on June 19. VDH is also working on related FAQs. This week DSS also issued...
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Despite the unprecedented challenges currently facing long term care providers, resident safety dictates that core functions surrounding medication management and pharmacy services remain a priority....
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There is still time to register for the final session of our COVID-19 Legal webinar series led by Hancock Daniel. Join us June 25 for...
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[caption id="attachment_122289" align="alignright" width="450"] Photo courtesy of Kissito – The Brian Center Alleghany[/caption] Robert McClintic, Chief Executive Officer of Kissito Healthcare, had an op-ed published...
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The Daily Progress published a letter to the editor from VHCA-VCAL President and CEO Keith Hare describing the close oversight the VDH Office of Licensure...
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According to AHCA, some members have begun to receive notices in CASPER rescinding the F884 citation and civil monetary penalty (CMP) they were given for...
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The Code of Virginia (§32.1-35.1) requires health care facilities that are required to report information about healthcare-associated infections to the CDC National Healthcare Safety Network...
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VDH has refined its approach to Point Prevalence Surveys (PPS) so now the Virginia National Guard (VANG) is reaching out directly to facilities—both nursing centers...
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VHCA-VCAL members receive 15% off the purchase of any Healthcare Interactive® CARES online training program by using promo code AHCA15 at checkout. CARES training is unique because it includes...
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Read this special message to NCAL members from Executive Director Scott Tittle: COVID-19 has taken a toll unlike anything we could have anticipated. Our hearts...
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As we await reopening guidance from DSS for assisted living facilities, we wanted to provide a roundup of key resources. We have shared these previously...
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DSS has announced that VDH, with the assistance of the Virginia National Guard (VANG), is offering to conduct Point Prevalence Surveys (PPS) for COVID-19 testing...
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Skilled nursing facility (SNF) and assisted living (AL) residents were eligible for Economic Impact Payments (EIPs). EIPs are one-time payments of $1,200. AHCA/NCAL developed FAQs and guidance...
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DMAS has informed VHCA-VCAL that the agency will be changing the way the Medicaid $20 per day add-on is distributed. The now published 2021 operating...
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Join us for a one-hour webinar on July 14 on COVID-19’s Impact on Pharmacy Services and Medication Management. Remedi SeniorCare’s Erin Foti and Bill Vaughan...
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Two sessions remain in our three-part COVID-19 Legal Webinar Series let by Hancock Daniel. Register now for the June 18 Liability Update and the June...
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"Our profession faces its greatest challenge in history. This isn’t like the usual fight we have in DC over a two percent increase or cut,...
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AHCA/NCAL has advocated for the last several weeks for US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to make provider relief payments to Medicaid...
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Gov. Ralph Northam has extended Executive Orders (EOs) related to the healthcare workforce and flexibility for Medicaid providers. EOs 57 and 58, which were set...
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On June 4, CMS publicly released individual facility data related to COVID-19 on Nursing Home Compare. Some centers who reviewed their data, have found errors...
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The deadline to complete the survey being conducted by the governor’s Long Term Care Task Force to support future facility needs has been extended to...
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While nursing homes must continue reporting confirmed and clusters of suspected cases in a cumulative manner in order to meet the current CMS requirements, AHCA/NCAL suggests nursing...
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As a reminder, the fee-for-service (FFS) billing rosters for the May dates of service are due to DMAS tomorrow, June 5. While missing this deadline...
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Help us tell the stories about all the great things happening in Virginia’s long term care communities. Following us on Facebook and Twitter plus liking, sharing, and...
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Sign up today for the first session in our COVID-19 Legal Webinar Series: Employment Law Update on June 11 at 2:00 pm. Hancock Daniel partners...
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As a reminder, our COVID-19 Resources webpage includes links to all of our member updates sent from April Payne, as well as the AHCA/NCAL updates. Here are...
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VHCA-VCAL encourages members to participate in a survey being conducted by the governor’s Long Term Care Task Force to support future facility needs. Separate surveys...
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If you were not able to participate in the June 3 webinar on COVID-19 Testing, a recording and the presentation materials are available. Watch the...
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Location of a nursing home was the determining factor in outbreaks according to independent analysis by leading academic and health care experts; asymptomatic spread and...
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In the effort to provide you with information to help you continue to source PPE, we are sharing the emergency vendor list from the Virginia...
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On June 2, the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) released updated FAQs with long awaited guidance on Tax Identification Numbers (TIN) and...
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“Providing as much factual data and real-time information as possible is critical in our ongoing efforts to tackle COVID-19. Our members have supported CMS’ reporting...
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On June 1, CMS released a memo, QSO-20-31-ALL, addressing National Healthcare Safety Network (NHSN) data, COVID-19 survey activities, enhanced enforcement, and engagement of Quality Improvement...
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NCAL has updated its Assisted Living Notification Guidelines for Confirmed COVID-19 Cases guidance. They encourage all assisted living communities to follow state and local requirements...
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DMAS has asked VHCA-VCAL to relay a series of updates on the Medicaid $20 per day add-on. The updates address the May Fee-for-Service (FFS) rosters,...
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Join us for our COVID-19 Legal Webinar Series on June 11, 18, and 25 offering insights into issues related employment law, liability issues, and blanket...
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As a reminder, our COVID-19 Resources webpage includes links to all of our member updates sent from April Payne, as well as the AHCA/NCAL updates....
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VHCA-VCAL invites you to join us for a webinar, COVID-19 Testing, on June 3. This webinar is specifically for nursing facilities and assisted living providers....
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Members have been sharing good news of resident and staff recoveries and community support. Recent stories come from Dulles Health & Rehab, Carrington Place in...
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Access to a Battelle Critical Care Decontamination System is available to VHCA-VCAL members. The system is FDA approved to use vapor phase hydrogen peroxide to...
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DMAS has issued a Medicaid Memo on New 1135 Waiver and Administrative Provider Flexibilities Related to COVID-19. It includes key information for nursing facilities (NFs)...
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The emergence of COVID-19 has compounded the need for centers to have an effective infection prevention and control program. AHCA/NCAL’s new and expanded version of...
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As a reminder, our COVID-19 Resources webpage includes links to all of our member updates sent from April Payne, as well as the AHCA/NCAL updates. Here are...
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A testament to the hard work and dedication of the health care staff and support from the local community, South Roanoke Nursing Home announced this...
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New data released on May 18 by the Virginia Hospital and Healthcare Association (VHHA) highlights COVID-19 cases and PPE needs across the state. This information, which is...
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The US Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has adopted revised policies for enforcing OSHA’s COVID-19 requirements, which will become effective May...
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This week, CMS provided recommendations in a new memo, QSO-20-30-NH, on a nursing home phased reopening for states. The guidance encourages state leaders to collaborate with...
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AHCA/NCAL has prepared responses to common member questions on reimbursement and legal issues related to COVID-19 testing in long term care (LTC). Reimbursement Issues Medicare...
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The Virginia Hospital and Alerting Status System (VHASS) recently issued updated information on how nursing facilities should request the PPE, calculate burn rate, and what...
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New data released on May 18 by the Virginia Hospital and Healthcare Association (VHHA) highlights COVID-19 cases and PPE needs across the state. This information...
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Relias is hosting a free webinar, Identifying Signs of Depression and Anxiety in People Living with Dementia, on May 28. The brains of people...
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Now more than ever, we need positive stories of recovery and hope. AHCA/NCAL launched Faces of Care to collect and feature stories from recovered patients...
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The US Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration released guidance aimed at protecting long term care facilities employees from exposure to COVID-19. Many...
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Knowing whether a PPE supplier is reliable is challenging these days with all the pop-up PPE suppliers and PPE scams. To assist members, AHCA/NCAL has developed a...
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As a reminder, on May 14 DSS issued a memo to assisted living facilities about the system for an ALF to initiate an urgent PPE need request....
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On Thursday, May 21, VHCA-VCAL is hosting a webinar on the CMS and CDC COVID-19 Surveys. Presenter Mary Chiles of Chiles Healthcare Consulting will review the processes...
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For PACE participants residing in a nursing facility, the Medicaid $20 per day add-on for COVID-19 will follow the fee-for-service (FFS) hospice model. DMAS will...
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As a reminder our COVID-19 Resources webpage includes links to all of our member updates sent from April Payne. Here a quick links to key...
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Knowing whether a PPE supplier is reliable is challenging these days with all the pop-up PPE suppliers and PPE scams. To assist members, AHCA/NCAL has developed a...
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US Rep. Abigail Spanberger (D-VA-07) is leading an effort calling on the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to release billions of dollars...
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According to preliminary research, larger facilities in urban areas with large populations, particularly in counties with a higher prevalence of COVID-19, were more likely to...
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A new national survey shows that a vast majority of voters believe long term care facilities, including nursing centers and assisted living communities, need more support...
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Recognizing the need for additional PPE to supplement existing efforts to secure critical supplies for nursing homes, FEMA is distributing PPE to nursing homes across...
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On May 11, CMS Administrator Seema Verma penned a letter to nursing home management and staff. Administrator Verma shared her gratitude for the unwavering dedication...
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National Healthcare Safety Network (NHSN) COVID-19 mandated reporting for nursing homes has begun. AHCA recommends accurately reporting the staffing and PPE situation at nursing homes...
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On May 21 VHCA-VCAL is hosting a webinar on the CMS and CDC COVID-19 Surveys. Presenter Mary Chiles of Chiles Healthcare Consulting will review the...
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Relias is hosting a webinar on May 13 with dementia care expert Teepa Snow highlighting different, person-centered working practices and routines to optimize the well-being...
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The US Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) recently announced that their transition to HealthShare Referral Manager and Electronic Claims Administration Management System (eCAMS) for the...
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To receive the Medicaid $20 per day add-on, nursing facilities should submit their roster bills for April tomorrow, May 8, for payments expected by May...
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As a reminder, our COVID-19 Resources webpage includes links to all of our member updates sent from April Payne. Here are quick links to key updates from...
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Beginning May 11, 2020, DSS is asking all assisted living facilities to report their total PPE inventory and their burn rate, on a weekly basis...
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In the past weeks, AHCA/NCAL has submitted an array of questions on the Provider Relief Fund. Of particular importance, health care providers have expressed concern...
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CDC has two printable resources regarding proper PPE sequence and usage and disposal of PPE in confirmed or suspected COVID situations. It is highly recommended...
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In QSO-20-29-NH, CMS established two new F-Tags for COVID-19 reporting. The agency has also updated the survey tools. Facilities should begin using the revised “COVID-19...
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CMS released a new memo on May 6, QSO-20-29-NH, addressing the interim final rule requiring nursing homes to report to NHSN on COVID-19 as well...
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CMS issued an interim final rule, effective May 1, which establishes explicit reporting requirements for long term care facilities to report information related to COVID-19...
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Gov. Ralph Northam’s Executive Order 58 suspended the Long Term Services and Supports (LTSS) screening requirements for all hospital discharges directly to a nursing facility...
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Earlier this week we communicated that DMAS finalized the guidance and templates and that the roster billing process for the per diem add-on had gone...
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AHCA/NCAL is offering a free 8-hour online training program to help meet critical staff shortages occurring as a result of COVID-19. This 8-hour online training,...
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On April 24, 2020, CMS released a memo (QSO-20-28-NH) with updates on Nursing Home Compare (NHC), Five Star, public staffing information, and a list of...
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As a reminder, our COVID-19 Resources webpage includes links to all of our member updates sent from April Payne. Here are quick links to key updates from...
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AHCA/NCAL has developed two tools to help members navigate the array of federal grants and loans, and assess allowable costs already reimbursed by pre-COVID-19 payers....
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Gov. Ralph Northam signed Executive Order 60, which reinforces certain existing statutory liability protections for Virginia healthcare workers. Due to COVID-19, public and private healthcare providers are...
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Effective communication is always important but is especially critical in this COVID-19 environment with heightened emotions, fear of the unknown, and restrictions on family member...
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On April 28, the CDC released the National Healthcare Safety Network (NHSN) COVID-19 reporting module for long term care facilities. Currently enrolled facilities will see the...
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The Richmond Times-Dispatch ran a cover story today highlighting the on-going needs of long term care providers and the need for more federal aid. The...
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NBC12 has spotlighted the outpouring of appreciation for the dedicated caregivers at Canterbury Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center, a facility that has been had hit by...
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In a special message to assited living faciltiy directors and staff, DSS Director of Licensing Programs Tara Ragland thanks providers for their “hard work, dedication,...
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As part of our ongoing effort to collect words of encouragement for residents and staff from members of Virginia’s Congressional delegation, we have more videos...
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DMAS published a Medicaid Memo on provider flexibilities related to COVID-19 on April 22, 2020. The memo includes CCC Plus-specific items related to consent and...
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The law firm Husch Blackwell lays out some general steps for documenting activities and response efforts to be prepared for surveys and potential litigation. AHCA/NCAL...
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AHCA/NCAL has created two resources to help members beware of scammers posing as government officials and how to beware of scams when working with vendors...
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On Wednesday, the Senate passed the fourth bill providing coronavirus-related relief to small businesses and providers. The $484 billion deal refills the Small Business Administration’s...
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Two weeks ago, we learned that skilled nursing would be included as part of the stimulus bill’s (aka the CARES Act) $100 billion Provider Relief...
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CMS has recently emphasized the importance of testing for COVID-19 in nursing facilities. When accessing testing, AHCA/NCAL recommends providers ensure that the tests are FDA...
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CEO of Lucy Corr Derrick Kendall shares that “the residents seem to be taking the social distancing requirements in stride,” in an article in the...
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Celebrating her 70th wedding anniversary today at Parham Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center Mrs. Barbara Miller says, “I feel like we’re in a safe place. Nobody...
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Gov. Ralph Northam has announced a statewide effort in collaboration with the VDH’s Virginia Medical Reserve Corps (MRC) to recruit medical and non-medical volunteers in...
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Parents who serve in essential industries and are in need of child care services should visit Child Care Aware at VAchildcare.org or call 1-866-KIDS-TLC for...
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Rep. Jennifer Wexton (VA-10) and Rep. Abigail Spanberger (D-VA) led a bipartisan letter urging House and Senate leadership to include the necessary funding for long...
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Funding from the first disbursement of the CARES Act provider fund (about $30 billion of the $100 billion total) began to hit nursing facility bank...
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In the Richmond Times-Dispatch’s coverage of Gov. Ralph Northam’s Long Term Care Facilities Task Force, VHCA-VCAL President and CEO Keith Hare explained, “’The amount of...
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Virginia’s COVID-19 Long Term Care Task Force met for the first time today. Dr. Laurie Forlano, state deputy commissioner of population health, is leading the...
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In the last week there have been two developments related to nursing facility Medicaid funding. First, on April 10, Gov. Ralph Northam approved a $20...
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Relias is hosting a free webinar with dementia care expert Teepa Snow on April 24 focusing on dementia care during the COVID-19 pandemic. The goal...
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As a reminder, our COVID-19 Resources webpage includes links to all of our member updates sent from April Payne. Given the volume of information we...
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CDC released a Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR) on April 3 on an assisted living and independent living community in Seattle related to the...
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AHCA/NCAL has developed recommendations to help you address when a resident wants to leave the building to go into the surrounding community and then return....
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AHCA/NCAL released four new resources on guidance from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the CDC on critically low or unavailable PPE. These...
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VHCA-VCAL has been asked to distribute a survey about the current stores of personal protective equipment (PPE) in assisted living facilities, so DSS, in partnership...
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As a reminder, our COVID-19 Resources webpage includes links to all of our member updates sent from April Payne. Given the volume of information we...
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DMAS has provided preliminary guidance regarding how stimulus checks will be treated for Medicaid purposes. DMAS expects this to be formalized in a set of...
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[caption id="attachment_113458" align="alignright" width="600"] Left to right: Rep. Morgan Griffith, Rep. Denver Riggleman, Rep. Abigail Spanberger, and Rep. Jennifer Wexton[/caption] Four members of the Virginia...
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As COVID-19 continues to spread skilled nursing facilities and other long term care providers are having to remain diligent to prevent the virus making it...
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As a reminder, on March 27, 2020, DSS has issued a memo to ALF licensees and administrators. It covers: ALF Assessments or Reassessments Adult Protective...
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VHCA-VCAL’s website partner, IlluminAge Communications Partners is offering a free 30-minute webinar, Develop and Deliver a Crisis Communications Plan on April 3 at 1:00 pm....
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This week Gov. Ralph Northam recorded a short message at our request for residents and staff. We encourage you to show it to your residents...
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The Virginian-Pilot featured the creative steps Beth Sholom Village is taking to keep residents engaged during the COVID-19 precautions. Read the full article: Shut-in but...
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The Richmond Times-Dispatch published an op-ed by Rep. Abigail Spanberger (D-VA-7) highlighting the urgent need for supplies to combat COVID-19. Spanberger wrote, “The heartbreaking accounts...
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Many YMCAs in Virginia are or will soon be offering childcare for children of essential personnel, which includes health care workers. Some are offering services...
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Pathway Health developed a full set of complimentary COVID-19 resources, including policies and procedures, leadership checklists, preparation and response strategies. Resources also include procedures for...
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AHCA/NCAL has shared two memos offering details on the applicability of the paid-leave provisions in the Families First Coronavirus Response (FFCR) Act and the eligibility...
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CMS indicates that providers should continue to code residents for the O0100M isolation item located in Chapter 3 of the MDS 3.0 RAI Manual v...
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AHCA prepared a set of Medicare Accelerated and Advance Payment FAQs to supplement the recent CMS Fact Sheet on this topic. The FAQs are based...
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CMS released a COVID-19 Provider Burden Relief FAQ document that states that the agency has suspended most Medicare Part A and Part B Fee-For-Service (FFS)...
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QSO-20-20: Prioritization of Surveys describes the new COVID-19 Focused Survey for Nursing Homes and includes a COVID-19 Self-Assessment, which nursing facilities should complete. VHCA-VCAL has...
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As we have seen in the outbreak in Washington state, nearly half of all residents infected were hospitalized and approximately 20-25 percent died. While some...
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Currently there are no waivers allowing SNFs to vary from the Life Safety Code (LSC) or the Health Care Facilities Code (HCFC) during COVID-19. Life...
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Each employer with fewer than 500 employees must post a notice of the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA) paid leave requirements in a conspicuous...
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In a message to stakeholder associations, DMAS Director Karen Kimsey has asked associations to inform their members that any requests of DMAS be sent to...
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VHCA-VCAL has been in close communication with DMAS and DSS to answer member questions about Medicaid eligibility, renewals, how documents are to be signed, and...
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Virginia State Health Commissioner Dr. M. Norman Oliver sent an update to healthcare practitioners across the Commonwealth on March 24. This update included information on:...
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During the COVID-19 public health threat, the Virginia Department of Health Professions (DHP) has established temporary waivers to various regulations during the declared state of...
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On March 25, the US Senate approved a stimulus package including provisions that would financially assist nursing facilities. The House of Representatives is expected to...
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Late last week, VHCA-VCAL submitted a request to Gov. Ralph Northam to increase Medicaid funding to address cost increases associated with preparation for and response...
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VDH scheduled the COVID-19 webinar for assisted living, PACE, adult day and group homes for Friday, March 20, at 2:30 pm. (This webinar was previously...
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The CDC has posted a recorded version of its March 17 webinar Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Update and Information for Long-term Care Facilities. During the...
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In light of COVID-19, CMS issued a nationwide waiver of the 3-Day Stay requirement and expanded telehealth for Medicare. Three-Day Stay Waiver On March 14,...
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VHCA-VCAL members met with Sen. Tim Kaine on for a virtual townhall on March 18 to discuss ways the senator could support nursing facilities and...
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CDC issued guidance on March 18 on the use of masks, gowns and face shields including suggestions on what to do if in crises shortages...
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