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 June 4 HHS memo on laboratory testing has now been updated to state:

“#4 CMS-certified long term care facilities shall submit point-of-care COVID-19 testing data, including antigen testing data, to CDC’s NHSN”. 

This new requirement goes into effect immediately. However, CMS has verbally indicated to AHCA that it will exercise enforcement discretion until November 20.

This new reporting module in NHSN requires SAMS Level-3 access. More information on this new reporting module is available here. CDC will also be holding training webinars in the coming weeks.