AHCA/NCAL announced a new, grass-roots opportunity facilitating the use of interested and qualified Medical Reserve Corps (MRC) volunteers to provide staff support for administering COVID-19 monoclonal antibody infusions in LTC facilities. The Long-Term Care Infusion Support Activity (LISA) is a collaborative initiative designed and supported by six national associations, including AHCA/NCAL, that have united to form the Coalition to Advance Community-Based Solutions for COVID-19. The goals of LISA are to reduce hospitalizations, preserve U.S. healthcare system capacity, and protect America’s seniors against COVID-19.
The LISA initiative includes:
- Detailed step-by-step instructions for activating the pathway and engaging with local MRC units and partners.
- Curated online training for MRC volunteers on core topics, including infection control, LTC facilities, COVID-19 monoclonal antibodies, and infusion therapy.
- Hands-on refresher training for MRC volunteers at a local infusion center (if available) on IV access, infusion therapy, and managing infusion reactions.
Note that local MRC units vary widely in terms of capacity, capabilities, personnel, and competing priorities. MRC units may or may not be able to satisfy requests for LISA support.
Action items for LTC facilities and/or state chapters:
- Review full details about the LISA initiative and pathway.
- Share this information with your facility and/or corporate leadership. If you are a state chapter of an LTC association, please share broadly with your membership.
- If your LTC facility and would like to request monoclonal antibody infusion support through LISA, look up contact information for the Director of your local MRC unit(s). Select a state, then click map location(s) for phone/email, and inquire about the availability of LISA volunteers.