CMS + CDC Urging Nursing Homes to be More Proactive with COVID-19 Outbreaks

Brandon Geiger

The article discusses COVID-19 reporting requirements and infection control guidance for nursing homes and long-term care facilities. Here are the main points:

* QSO-20-29-NH, a memo issued on May 6, 2020, addresses COVID-19 reporting requirements to the National Healthcare Safety Network (NHSN), as well as to residents, their representatives, and their families.
* The CDC’s COVID-19 Infection Control Guidance page provides detailed guidance on various topics, including personal protective equipment, testing, cohorting, and transmission-based precautions.
* The article mentions additional action steps for improving air quality in facilities, such as purchasing portable air cleaners with high-efficiency particulate air filters through CMS’s civil money penalty reinvestment program.
* The White House’s Winter Playbook for Nursing Homes and Other Long-term Care Facilities to Manage COVID-19 and Protect Residents, Staff, and Visitors is also referenced.

Overall, the article aims to provide guidance and resources for senior care facilities to manage COVID-19 and protect their residents, staff, and visitors.