DDA Providers:
We want to inform you that the recent Maryland Department of Health (MDH) order noted below relates to activities of the Office of Health Care Quality (OHCQ).
Specifically, it rescinds the directive and order regarding the OHCQ oversight activities dated March 16, 2020 which had previously suspended on-site surveys.
Therefore, per the AMENDED DIRECTIVE AND ORDER REGARDING VARIOUS HEALTHCARE MATTERS No. MDH 2020-10-01-01, beginning October 1, 2020, the OHCQ shall resume on-site surveys.
A complete copy of the amended directive and order can be downloaded here.
Please note that OHCQ staff will be meeting all Centers for Disease Control (CDC), Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) safety guidelines, as well as any State or local Governor’s Orders or Secretary Orders.
All OHCQ staff will be fully equipped with the required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) when onsite. They have been fit-tested and trained on the proper use of the PPE. Staff are also required to use hand sanitizer or wash hands frequently as well practice social distancing.
Surveyors will still need access to administrative documents. If an OHCQ surveyor finds that a provider's administrative office is not open, then they will contact the Director to coordinate another time to review records.
