Current CDC and CMS Expectations Regarding COVID-19 Infection Control

COVID-19; vaccine; Infection Prevention/Control; Safety; Programs and Resources
 

Earlier this month, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced new simplified respiratory virus recommendations for the general public. AHCA/NCAL clarified that these recommendations do not apply to most health care settings, including nursing homes. However, they may apply to assisted living (AL) providers based on the level of care provided in the community. NCAL published additional information to help AL communities determine which guidance to follow.   
 
Nursing homes are currently required at §483.80 of the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services’ (CMS) State Operations Manual to follow the CDC’s Interim Infection Prevention and Control Guidance for Healthcare. Nursing homes must also follow the return to work guidance for health care personnel outlined in Interim Guidance for Managing Healthcare Personnel with COVID-19 Infection or Exposure
 
Nursing homes are not required to follow separate testing guidance; this requirement was rescinded by CMS through QSO-20-38.   
 
Providers should also refer to their state or local health department for any additional guidance and/or requirements that may be in place.   
 
Please email covid19@ahca.org​ with any questions.