In This COVID-19 Update:
- Preparing for Future Surveys: Document Your Calls for Help
- FEMA to Ship PPE to Nursing Homes
Preparing for Future Surveys: Document Your Calls For Help
As noted in previous COVID-19 AHCA/NCAL updates, the association has developed brief guidance for facilities facing personal protective equipment and staffing shortages, as well as other challenges in receiving assistance. Most long term care providers do not have access to the adequate supplies or staff to provide the level of care needed to contain the virus. Documenting requests for assistance is a critical part of managing of the long term consequences of the lack of supplies and testing – and preparing for future surveys.
Unfortunately, also due to this crisis, many long term care providers are unable to fulfill requests for help made to regular contacts (e.g., suppliers, morgues, staffing agencies, etc.) and through traditional communication channels. Long term care providers need to regularly call for help and need to document these calls were made. Continue to reach out to these entities:
- Contact the local AND state health departments
- Contact the state survey agency
- Consider contacting local government officials such as the mayor, state representative or state senator
Be sure to check out the AHCA/NCAL guidance, which also has information on how to properly document calls for help and the importance of requesting a facility level waiver.
FEMA Shipping SNFs a Supply of PPE in Early May and Again in June
The White House Coronavirus Task Force announced yesterday that FEMA will be shipping to every nursing home in the United States a supply of PPE (surgical masks, gowns, face shields and gloves) in early May and again in early June. As we learn more about the arrival dates and amounts, we will let you know.