APDA NEWS FLASH!
Interim Final Covid 19 Testing rules
Takeaways from this update: 1. This new testing requirement includes all service providers/individuals under arrangement with the SNF such as Portable Diagnostics. 2. NH will be required to designate an infection preventionist responsibibile for an infection and control program.

On August 25, 2020, CMS published an interim final rule with comment period (IFC). This rule establishes Long-Term Care (LTC) Facility Testing Requirements for Staff and Residents. Specifically, facilities are required to test residents and staff, including individuals providing services under arrangement and volunteers, for COVID-19 based on parameters set forth by the HHS Secretary. This memorandum provides guidance for facilities to meet the new requirements. Revised COVID-19 Focused Survey Tool -To assess compliance with the new testing requirements, CMS has revised the survey tool for surveyors. ...also adding to the survey process the assessment of compliance with the requirements for facilities to designate one or more individual(s) as the infection preventionist(s) (IPs) who are responsible for the facility's infection prevention and control program (IPCP) at 42 CFR ยง 483.80(b). In addition, we are making a number of revisions to the survey tool to reflect other COVID-19 guidance updates.
Important dates for Provider Relief Fund Reporting
  • All recipients must report within 45 days of the end of calendar year 2020 on their expenditures through the period ending December 31, 2020.
  • Recipients who have expended funds in full prior to December 31, 2020 may submit a single final report at any time during the window that begins October 1, 2020, but no later than February 15, 2021.
  • Recipients with funds unexpended after December 31, 2020, must submit a second and final report no later than July 31, 2021. Detailed PRF reporting instructions and a data collection template with the necessary data elements will be available through the HRSA website soon be made available. Continue to check the hhs.gov/providerrelief page for the latest updates.
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