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 homes consider including additional information in these notifications, so they are more meaningful and useful to residents, their representatives and families. AHCA/ has included additional, optional items in this updated template letter to residents and families.

The suggested items to consider including are:

• Number of residents or staff with confirmed COVID-19 
• Number of residents and staff who have recovered from COVID-19 
• Number of residents and staff who have tested negative for COVID-19 
• The number of days since a new resident or staff member has tested positive

These items are not required, nor are they prohibited. Along with providing numbers, make sure to provide updates to residents and family members about efforts you are undertaking to address the situation and how you will continue to keep them informed. This template letter is not just about fulfilling CMS requirements, but fostering a good relationship with those you serve. 

The template letter may also be used by Assisted Living Communities. Nursing homes and assisted living communities may further adapt or tailor these letters as they see fit. 

As with all information included in these notifications, make sure you adhere to existing privacy requirements and do not include Personally Identifiable Information (PII), such as names or specific medical information.