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 14, VHCA-VCAL has learned that about two dozen centers in Virginia will soon receive devices. AHCA/NCAL has put together a summary of important steps providers must take in preparing to use these testing devices.

Nursing facilities will receive one of two testing devices:

• Quidel Sofia 2 SARS Antigen FIA
• BD Veritor System for Rapid Detection of SARS-CoV-2

These test devices are being shipped based on prioritization of hot spot areas, cases of COVID-19 among staff and residents and lack of access to testing. The CMS COVID-19 Nursing Home Data webpage includes a link to a data file which will be updated with the list of NFs prioritized to receive a device as they are shipped.

It is our understanding that initially facilities will be sent the Quidel Sofia 2device. NFs should review the Quidel Together Again webpage for information on how to set up the device, conduct training, and reorder tests.

Providers must have a Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendment (CLIA) Certificate of Waiver to receive a testing device. CMS has also published list of FAQ’s that providers are encouraged to review.