The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) has released the Interim Final Rule, “COVID-19 Vaccine Immunization Requirements for Clients and Staff in Intermediate Care Facilities for Individuals with Intellectual Disabilities (ICFs/IID).” As shared in previous updates, CMS published an interim final rule earlier this year with comment period which establishes Long-Term Care Facility Vaccine Immunization Requirements for Residents and Staff. It includes new requirements for educating clients or client representatives and staff regarding the benefits and potential side effects associated with the COVID-19 vaccine, and offering the vaccine. Furthermore, ICFs/IID are encouraged – but not required – to report COVID-19 vaccine and therapeutics treatment information to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s National Healthcare Safety Network. The full CMS ICF memo is available here.