| New #GetVaccinated Resources Now Available: Video Series on Addressing Vaccine Hesitancy | https://www.ahcancal.org/News-and-Communications/Blog/Pages/New-GetVaccinated-Resources-Now-Available-Video-Series-on-Addressing-Vaccine-Hesitancy.aspx | New #GetVaccinated Resources Now Available: Video Series on Addressing Vaccine Hesitancy | | | | | 1/5/2026 5:00:00 AM | | The American Health Care Association and National Center for Assisted Living (AHCA/NCAL) is excited to announce the release of new <a href="/Quality/Pages/GetVaccinated.aspx" data-feathr-click-track="true" data-feathr-link-aids="60b7cbf17788425491b2d083" target="_blank">#GetVaccinated</a> resources: a 4-part video series designed to support meaningful, effective conversations about vaccines across long term and post-acute care settings.<br><br>This new video series focuses on using motivational interviewing techniques to address vaccine questions, concerns, and hesitancy among residents, staff, and family members. Motivational interviewing is a proven, person-centered communication approach that emphasizes empathy, active listening, and collaboration, helping caregivers meet people where they are and guide conversations toward informed decision-making.<br><br>The videos walk through real-world scenarios commonly faced by long term care providers and demonstrate practical, respectful ways to respond.<br><br><strong>What's Included in the Video Series:</strong><div><br><ul><li><a href="https://youtu.be/wv2WDvvm-Kc" data-feathr-click-track="true" data-feathr-link-aids="60b7cbf17788425491b2d083" target="_blank"><strong>Addressing Misinformation on the COVID Vaccine</strong></a></li><li><a href="https://youtu.be/Dl_H41YDh68?si=H8weg9S1uanFCveM" data-feathr-click-track="true" data-feathr-link-aids="60b7cbf17788425491b2d083" target="_blank"><strong>Addressing Risks and Benefits of the COVID Vaccine</strong></a></li><li><a href="https://youtu.be/8WY7WNkMpgI?si=bloONtOkx987SHYq" data-feathr-click-track="true" data-feathr-link-aids="60b7cbf17788425491b2d083" target="_blank"><strong>Addressing Flu Vaccine Hesitancy with Residents' Family Members</strong></a></li><li><a href="https://youtu.be/6f2Mbjq7E3g?si=3z8O1Fbo3bj0TsTR" data-feathr-click-track="true" data-feathr-link-aids="60b7cbf17788425491b2d083" target="_blank"><strong>Addressing Vaccine Hesitancy with Multiple Vaccines</strong></a><br></li></ul><div dir="ltr" style="font-size:11pt;"><br></div><div dir="ltr" style="font-size:11pt;">Each video is accompanied by a facilitator guide designed to ensure that any staff member can watch the video, review the guide, and feel confident using motivational interviewing techniques in real-world conversations. Each guide includes:<br></div><div dir="ltr" style="font-size:11pt;"><br></div><ul><li>Core principles of motivational interviewing</li><li>Discussion tips</li><li>Key talking points</li><li>Additional resources</li><li>Facilitator reflection<br></li></ul><div><br></div>Together, these new #GetVaccinated resources equip providers with practical tools to strengthen vaccine conversations -- fostering trust, reducing misinformation, and supporting the health of residents, staff, and families.<br><br>The #GetVaccinated campaign, supported by Moderna, provides long term care providers with year-round tools to protect their communities. Visit <a href="http://www.getvaccinated.us/" data-feathr-click-track="true" data-feathr-link-aids="60b7cbf17788425491b2d083" target="_blank">GetVaccinated.us</a> to explore the full library of resources and access the new video series.<br></div> | | |
| New #GetVaccinated Resources: Understanding mRNA Vaccines | https://www.ahcancal.org/News-and-Communications/Blog/Pages/New-GetVaccinated-Resources-Understanding-mRNA-Vaccines.aspx | New #GetVaccinated Resources: Understanding mRNA Vaccines | | | | | 11/11/2025 5:00:00 AM | | <div>The American Health Care Association and National Center for Assisted Living (AHCA/NCAL) has released two new resources to help long term care staff better understand mRNA vaccines and confidently address questions about them. These materials support the #GetVaccinated campaign for the 2025–2026 respiratory virus season.<br></div><div> </div><a href="/Quality/Documents/GetVaccinated/How%20do%20mRNA%20Vaccines%20Work.pdf" data-feathr-click-track="true" data-feathr-link-aids="60b7cbf17788425491b2d083" target="_blank" style="text-decoration:underline;"><div><strong>How Do mRNA Vaccines Work</strong></div></a><div>This resource explains—in simple, easy-to-understand terms—how mRNA vaccines help the body build immunity. It includes a clear analogy to make the science relatable, along with a helpful FAQ section that dispels many common misconceptions.</div><div> <br></div><div style="text-decoration:underline;"><a href="/Quality/Documents/GetVaccinated/mRNA%20vaccines%20and%20you.pdf" data-feathr-click-track="true" data-feathr-link-aids="60b7cbf17788425491b2d083" target="_blank"><strong>mRNA Vaccines and You</strong></a></div><div>This guide outlines what mRNA vaccines are, their typical and rare side effects, and how vaccination protects both staff and residents from severe illness and hospitalization. A “Myths vs. Facts” section tackles misinformation directly to help individuals make informed decisions.</div><div> </div><div>We encourage providers to download and share these materials with your teams as part of ongoing vaccination discussions and education efforts.</div><div> </div><div>The #GetVaccinated campaign, supported by Moderna, equips long term care providers with trusted, easy-to-use tools to protect their communities year-round.</div><div><br></div><div>Visit <a href="https://getvaccinated.us/" data-feathr-click-track="true" data-feathr-link-aids="60b7cbf17788425491b2d083" target="_blank"><strong>GetVaccinated.us</strong></a> to explore these resources and strengthen your vaccination efforts today.<br></div><p></p> | AHCA/NCAL has released two new resources to help long term care staff better understand mRNA vaccines and confidently address questions about them. | |
| AHCA/NCAL Releases New #GetVaccinated Resources for Long Term Care Providers | https://www.ahcancal.org/News-and-Communications/Blog/Pages/AHCANCAL-Releases-New-GetVaccinated-Resources-for-Long-Term-Care-Providers.aspx | AHCA/NCAL Releases New #GetVaccinated Resources for Long Term Care Providers | | | | | 10/10/2025 4:00:00 AM | | <span data-contrast="none" lang="EN-US" style="font-size:11pt;">As the winter months approach, respiratory viruses such as influenza (flu), COVID-19 and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) become more widespread. This time of year, it is more critical than ever to recognize the risks these viruses pose, especially to long term care residents, and take proactive steps to prevent illness, address health concerns and educate others about the benefits of immunization. </span><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559739":0,"335559740":240}" style="font-size:11pt;"> </span><div><span data-contrast="none" lang="EN-US"></span><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559739":0,"335559740":240}"> </span></div><div><span data-contrast="none" lang="EN-US">In partnership with Moderna, AHCA/NCAL has launched its 2025-2026 #GetVaccinated campaign, which offers new and updated resources for long term care providers to learn about the latest vaccination recommendations, answer frequently asked questions, and encourage residents and caregivers to stay current with their immunizations. The campaign’s website, </span><a href="https://getvaccinated.us/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" data-feathr-click-track="true" data-feathr-link-aids="60b7cbf17788425491b2d083"><span data-contrast="none" lang="EN-US"><span data-ccp-charstyle="Hyperlink">GetVaccinated.us</span></span></a><span data-contrast="none" lang="EN-US">, is a one-stop shop for tools and information to promote vaccinations at your facilities and encourage residents to stay healthy this cold and flu season. Resources include: </span><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559739":0,"335559740":240}"> </span></div><div><span data-contrast="none" lang="EN-US"></span><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559739":0,"335559740":240}"> </span></div><div><ul role="list"><li aria-setsize="-1" data-leveltext="" data-font="Symbol" data-listid="1" data-list-defn-props="{"335552541":1,"335559685":720,"335559991":360,"469769226":"Symbol","469769242":[8226],"469777803":"left","469777804":"","469777815":"hybridMultilevel"}" data-aria-posinset="1" data-aria-level="1" role="listitem"><span data-contrast="none" lang="EN-US">Best practices and guidance to ensure long term care providers are prepared for vaccination season, record the proper vaccination documentation, and understand vaccine regulations for long term care facilities; </span><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559739":0,"335559740":240}"> </span></li></ul></div><div><ul role="list"><li aria-setsize="-1" data-leveltext="" data-font="Symbol" data-listid="1" data-list-defn-props="{"335552541":1,"335559685":720,"335559991":360,"469769226":"Symbol","469769242":[8226],"469777803":"left","469777804":"","469777815":"hybridMultilevel"}" data-aria-posinset="2" data-aria-level="1" role="listitem"><span data-contrast="none" lang="EN-US">Billing guides that outline the proper reimbursement process for administering vaccines; </span><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559739":0,"335559740":240}"> </span></li></ul></div><div><ul role="list"><li aria-setsize="-1" data-leveltext="" data-font="Symbol" data-listid="1" data-list-defn-props="{"335552541":1,"335559685":720,"335559991":360,"469769226":"Symbol","469769242":[8226],"469777803":"left","469777804":"","469777815":"hybridMultilevel"}" data-aria-posinset="3" data-aria-level="1" role="listitem"><span data-contrast="none" lang="EN-US">Frequently asked questions to answer common questions and concerns about the viruses and vaccines; </span><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559739":0,"335559740":240}"> </span></li></ul></div><div><ul role="list"><li aria-setsize="-1" data-leveltext="" data-font="Symbol" data-listid="1" data-list-defn-props="{"335552541":1,"335559685":720,"335559991":360,"469769226":"Symbol","469769242":[8226],"469777803":"left","469777804":"","469777815":"hybridMultilevel"}" data-aria-posinset="4" data-aria-level="1" role="listitem"><span data-contrast="none" lang="EN-US">A promotional toolkit for providers, including posters, social media content and talking points; </span><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559739":0,"335559740":240}"> </span></li></ul></div><div><ul role="list"><li aria-setsize="-1" data-leveltext="" data-font="Symbol" data-listid="1" data-list-defn-props="{"335552541":1,"335559685":720,"335559991":360,"469769226":"Symbol","469769242":[8226],"469777803":"left","469777804":"","469777815":"hybridMultilevel"}" data-aria-posinset="5" data-aria-level="1" role="listitem"><span data-contrast="none" lang="EN-US">And more!</span><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559739":0,"335559740":240}"> </span></li></ul></div><div><span data-contrast="none" lang="EN-US">We encourage providers to visit </span><a href="https://getvaccinated.us/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" data-feathr-click-track="true" data-feathr-link-aids="60b7cbf17788425491b2d083"><span data-contrast="none" lang="EN-US"><span data-ccp-charstyle="Hyperlink">GetVaccinated.us</span></span></a><span data-contrast="none" lang="EN-US"> and take advantage of the available most up-to-date resources. </span><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559739":0,"335559740":240}"> </span></div><div><span data-contrast="none" lang="EN-US"> </span><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559739":0,"335559740":240}"> </span></div><div><span data-contrast="none" lang="EN-US"><em>Note: AHCA/NCAL does not endorse a specific vaccine or vaccine maker unless there is demonstrable evidence that it is more effective at protecting residents and staff members. </em> </span><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559739":0,"335559740":240}"> </span></div> | | |
| CDC Adopts Updated COVID-19 Vaccination Schedule | https://www.ahcancal.org/News-and-Communications/Blog/Pages/CDC-Adopts-Updated-COVID-19-Vaccination-Schedule-.aspx | CDC Adopts Updated COVID-19 Vaccination Schedule | | | | | 10/7/2025 4:00:00 AM | | <p></p><div>The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/media/releases/2025/cdc-immunization-schedule-adopts-individual-based-decision.html" data-feathr-click-track="true" data-feathr-link-aids="60b7cbf17788425491b2d083">updated</a> its adult and child immunization schedules for the COVID-19 vaccine to align with the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recent recommendations, which include the following: </div><div><br></div><div><ul><li><strong>For adults ages 65 and older: </strong>COVID-19 vaccination is recommended based on individual-based decision-making (also known as <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/acip/vaccine-recommendations/shared-clinical-decision-making.html" data-feathr-click-track="true" data-feathr-link-aids="60b7cbf17788425491b2d083" target="_blank">shared clinical decision making</a>). <br><br></li><li><strong>Individuals 6 months to 64 years:</strong> COVID-19 vaccination based on individual-based decision making with an emphasis that the risk-benefit of vaccination is highest for those at an increased risk for severe COVID-19 and lowest for those who are not at increased risk (according to the<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/covid/risk-factors/index.html" data-feathr-click-track="true" data-feathr-link-aids="60b7cbf17788425491b2d083" target="_blank"> CDC list of COVD-19 risk factors</a>). </li></ul></div><div><br></div><div>CMS requires nursing homes to offer each resident and staff member the COVID-19 vaccine (once available) unless the immunization is medically contraindicated, or the resident or staff member has already been immunized. Before offering the COVID-19 vaccine, all staff members, residents, or their representatives must be provided with education regarding the benefits, risks, and potential side effects associated with the vaccine, which can be accomplished by using the <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/hcp/current-vis/covid-19.html" data-feathr-click-track="true" data-feathr-link-aids="60b7cbf17788425491b2d083" target="_blank">CDC VIS</a> (which is likely to be updated given the new recommendations). </div><div><br></div><div>Giving the timing, providers should be ordering the vaccine and/or planning their clinics. Providers should talk to their residents about the risks and benefits of the COVID-19 vaccine and those who may benefit due to their individual risks. </div><div><br></div><div>With the final recommendations released, AHCA/NCAL is continuing to update its <a href="/Quality/Pages/GetVaccinated.aspx" data-feathr-click-track="true" data-feathr-link-aids="60b7cbf17788425491b2d083" target="_blank">#GetVaccinated webpage</a> with resources for long term care providers for the respiratory virus season. As CDC and CMS materials and guidance are updated, AHCA/NCAL will share these developments with members. <br></div><p></p> | The CDC recently updated its adult and child immunization schedules for the COVID-19 vaccine to align with the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices recent recommendations | |